Parishioners at the Church of the Incarnation have compiled this list of businesses to help immigrant entrepreneurs maintain their livelihood in this time of political and economic uncertainty. Peruse the sections below for your new favorite local business!
Mercado Central, located at 1515 E. Lake St., is the home to many dozen immigrant-owned businesses. They range from small floral and jewelry shops to larger stores selling soccer gear and baked goods. The Mercado grew out of organizing efforts among early Mexican immigrants, two of which are Incarnation parishioners. The Mercado is a business incubator and over the years dozens of startups have transitioned to larger Lake Street locations as they outgrew their Mercado space. Mercado businesses now are owned by immigrants from eight countries, chiefly Mexico but also Colombia, Guatemala, El Salvador, Peru, Chile, Ecuador and Nicaragua.