As small businesses continue to drive economic growth throughout South Florida, new entrepreneurs often face daunting challenges as they navigate the competitive landscape. Inter Miami CF and Chase launched the “Kickstart Your Goals” initiative in an attempt to help ten first-time, first-generation entrepreneurs from Miami and South Florida. 

Taking place at Inter Miami’s Chase Stadium, the program offered workshops and advice from small business experts. The goal? To help participants kick off their business journeys on the right foot. 

Chase business experts provided in-depth training on three areas pivotal to entrepreneurs: budgeting, building credit, and managing cash flow. Even better? Each participant received $1,000 to support their start-up costs.

Jonathan Bello, head of Chase for Business in Miami, explained the motivation behind the program: “Entrepreneurs often face an uphill climb to success. We are proud to partner with Inter Miami CF to lift up South Florida’s entrepreneurial community and help these businesses thrive.”

David Ruiz and His Mother Share Their Story

Inter Miami midfielder David Ruiz and his mother, Alba Ochoa, shared some well-received words of inspiration. Ochoa owns Alba’s Café & Restaurant in Little Havana. She detailed her journey as an entrepreneur. She also stressed the importance of perseverance and finding inspiration in family.

Ochoa’s son then shared how his mother’s efforts influenced him. “My mother’s hard work inspired me to pursue my dreams,” noted Ruiz. The fireside chat showed the connection between entrepreneurship and achieving one’s dreams—both of which reflected the spirit guiding the “Kickstart Your Goals” initiative.

Diverse Entrepreneurs Selected

The entrepreneurs selected represented some of the Miami region’s most popular industries, including catering, textiles, and ice cream. Participants included:

Camila Jocelyn-Holt is the Director of Community Engagement for Inter Miami. She knows firsthand the struggles rookie business owners face. Still, she highlighted the difference each business is making in the area. “These entrepreneurs are creating a positive impact in South Florida,” confirmed Jocelyn-Holt. “This program embodies our commitment to empowering local talent and supporting their journeys.”

Celebrating Entrepreneurs at Saturday’s Match

Inter Miami will look to inspire future business owners when the team celebrates the participants of “Kickstart Your Goals” during Saturday’s match against Charlotte FC. During “Celebrating Local Entrepreneurs presented by Chase,” the entrepreneurs will receive accolades for their efforts during a pre-game ceremony. The first 10,000 fans in attendance will receive a tote bag co-branded by Inter Miami CF and Chase. 

In the Fan Zone, fans will have the chance to win special prizes by scoring penalty kicks across three mini-goals. Those who score a goal will receive a special giveaway. Chase will host the “Golden Goal” activity.

Strengthening the Local Business Ecosystem

The “Kickstart Your Goals” initiative is the first collaboration between Chase and Inter Miami geared toward entrepreneurs. Bello explained that the program continues JPMorgan Chase’s efforts to boost the local business community: “We look forward to seeing these businesses succeed and supporting many more in the future.”
Tickets for Saturday’s match between Inter Miami FC and Charlotte FC are still available. Both Chase and Inter Miami have confirmed that fans can expect additional programs aimed at supporting South Florida entrepreneurs.