VROCC Celebrates the Conclusion of the 2025 LCE Program

Special to the Times-Free press

The Veronica Robles Cultural Center (VROCC) proudly celebrates the successful conclusion of the 2025 Latino Cultural Entrepreneurship (LCE) program, whose final event took place on Friday, June 27 at its East Boston headquarters.

This project was made possible thanks to the support of the Urban Agenda program from the Executive Office of Economic Development of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

The event brought together more than 30 Latino entrepreneurs, selected from a group of 80 participants in the workshops held between February and June 2025.

Entrepreneurs had the opportunity to showcase and sell their products and services to over 200 attendees.

The day included opportunities to connect and network with potential clients, local government representatives, and special guests, as well as tastings from La Cocina de VROCC—a new cultural center project that is creating jobs for youth and community members. In addition, this project will support culinary entrepreneurs by providing them with the space they need to grow their businesses.

The event also featured live cultural performances, including young dancers from the Ballet Folklórico and the official launch of the Spanish rock band “Los Vrockeros,” a new musical project formed by local musicians who are also music instructors at VROCC.

Special thanks go to Henry Santana, Boston City Councilor and Council President, as well as local government representatives: Isabela Lobo, representing Senator Ed Markey; Yarlennys Villaman, Director of Community Affairs for Governor Maura T. Healey’s Office; Eduardo Moreno, Chief of Staff for Senator Lydia Edwards’ office; and Ronald J. Elie, Manager of Neighborhood Business and Small Business for the Boston Mayor’s Office, who presented official certificates to the entrepreneurs in recognition of their effort and commitment upon completing the course.

In recognition of VROCC’s efforts to strengthen Latino small businesses and promote economic development in East Boston and surrounding areas, Eagle Bank made a $1,500 donation.

Since 2022, VROCC’s Latino entrepreneurship program has offered more than 50 free training workshops, directly benefiting over 1,000 artists, entrepreneurs, and community members, and providing technical assistance to more than 200 entrepreneurs and small business owners.

This edition concluded by awarding over $10,000 in benefits to the 2025 participant group, including non-repayable funds through the first edition of the VROCC Emprende y Prospera Grant, divided into five awards: Terapix $2,000, KMK Bakery & Cafe $1,500, H. War Design $1,000, Accitraining $250, and Raices Sofrito $250.

The ten outstanding ventures include: Luciérnaga, Spanish Fun Program, Café Miraflores, Colcolors & Vibes LLC, Eimy Madrid – Holistic Therapist, Bodas y Más.

During the event, foundations were laid to continue working together to promote spaces and initiatives aimed at driving economic growth and expanding opportunities for the Latino community. Among the special guests included East Boston CDC and East Boston Chamber of Commerce.

VROCC’s Mission:  The mission of the Veronica Robles Cultural Center (VROCC) is to promote Latin arts and culture as an engine for stronger communities and economic growth.

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