Entrepreneurialism Flourishes in Guadalajara

It has been said that Guadalajara is the “Silicon Valley” of  Mexico.  There is energy in the city that is undeniable, attracting entrepreneurs from all over Mexico.  There is even a sign outside of the airport  that says “Welcome to Guadalajara: Home of Entrepreneurs”.

In addition to the bustling technology sector, Guadalajara also home to a number of companies focused on the healthcare sector.  Motion Mechanics is a company specialized in the design and development of Mexican rehabilitation technologies and devices.  Their core product, SafeMotion, is an adjustable rehabilitation ramp with stairs which adapts to the needs of the patient.   Jorge Arturo Moto, COO of Motion Mechanics, says that the fact that companies like Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and Freescale, have set up operations in Guadalajara shows tremendous growth and leads to an improving  entrepreneurial environment.  The local government is also contributing to the growth by creating tech clusters and through various programs like FOJAL (Jalisco Fund for Business Support).   When it comes to finding employees that share his passion, Jorge says “You need to spread your passion about your business and product/service with everyone you come in contact with. Also, you need to meet and interview people constantly. Try to find people with the same dreams and passions like you.”

In addition to his work at Motion Mechanics, Jorge Moto is also encouraging other young entrepreneurs in Mexico through the networking group he cofounded called SumaTe.  SumaTe is an entrepreneurial organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship by providing its members with information on raising capital, legal matters and best practices.  Although the group is
fairly new, the membership base is rapidly expanding and their events have
drawn the attention of corporate sponsors.

One of Guadalajara’s up and coming social media companies is WEM Digital.  The company, which originally started in a garage, has blossomed into a force to be reckoned with attracting clients like Motorola, NFL, Telmex, and Palacio de Hierro.  WEM Digital specializes in design and
implementation of digital advertising campaigns.

Federico Vargas, Director of Marketing, says that while Mexico City is over saturated with companies, Guadalajara is virgin territory for many industries, making it an attractive place to be an entrepreneur.  When asked what advice he
would give to others thinking of starting their own businesses, Vargas said
“Start now.  Believe in your project, stop making excuses, you can get started by just having a dream and a burning desire to make something happen.”

One local entrepreneurial company that is being recognized for its innovation at home and abroad is Kurago Biotek.  Kurago Biotek is a Guadalajara-based business devoted to the development and commercialization of functional food based on biotechnology.  Their patented technology, BIOGEL, makes the probiotics easy to store and digest.  Kurago Biotek got its start 7 years ago,
while trying to trying to impact a community of HIV infected children through
the development of a healthy candy.

Julian Cuevas, CEO of Kurago Biotek, says “In the last 10 years Guadalajara has become a very attractive place for business because it is a large city with many services available, but at the same time it is still a city that lets you move throughout and accomplish an agenda that in many other cities it would be simply impossible.  It is growing in professional and technological services, but also preserves a very Mexican traditional atmosphere.

There is no doubt that this “City of the Future” is on the verge of something big.  It’s warm climate, positive business atmosphere and young entrepreneurial population will surely make Guadalajara an attractive place to do business for years to come.

Be Sociable, Share!

•