During Hispanic Heritage Month, our very own Mike Maldonado, head instructor and owner of Maldonado ATA Martial Arts, was honored to participate in an entrepreneur panel that celebrated Hispanic business leaders. Sharing his experiences and insights, Mike reflected on the importance of understanding your “Why,” building strong business systems, and supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs. Here’s a look into the panel discussion and the wisdom Mike imparted to aspiring business owners.
Honored to Be Part of the Panel
When asked how it felt to be invited to speak on the entrepreneur panel, Mike expressed that it was an honor and something he hadn’t expected. His humility and focus on helping others succeed shone through during the entire event.
“It was an honor and was definitely unexpected,” Mike shared.
Understanding Your “Why” in Business
One of the key points Mike emphasized during the panel was the importance of understanding your “Why.” For any entrepreneur, knowing the reason behind why you started your business is crucial for staying motivated and pushing through challenges.
“Understand your ‘Why.’ Why did you start your entrepreneurial journey in the first place?” Mike advised.
Whether you’re running a martial arts school or launching a tech startup, your “Why” should be your North Star, guiding your decisions and actions.
Hispanic Heritage: Remembering Where You Came From
When discussing the significance of highlighting Hispanic entrepreneurs and leaders during Hispanic Heritage Month, Mike noted that it’s important for everyone—not just Hispanic individuals—to understand their family’s history and where they came from.
“I think it is important for everyone to understand their specific family’s history and never forget where they came from,” Mike said.
This sense of identity and appreciation for heritage can serve as a foundation for both personal and professional growth.
Key Takeaway: 80% of Small Businesses Never Break $1 Million in Revenue
One statistic shared during the panel stood out to both Mike and the audience: 80% of small businesses in America never reach $1 million in annual revenue. This figure highlights the challenges entrepreneurs face and the need for strong business systems and financial awareness to achieve growth.
“80% of small businesses in America never break the $1 million revenue annual threshold,” Mike highlighted, underscoring the importance of staying focused on growth and profitability.
Challenges and the Path Forward
When asked about the challenges he faced as a Hispanic entrepreneur, Mike noted that his biggest challenge, like most small business owners, has been overcoming obscurity. Getting your business known and gaining visibility is often a bigger hurdle than the day-to-day operations.
Additionally, being a business owner has pushed Mike to think about creating opportunities for the next generation. This drive to support others is evident in how Maldonado ATA Martial Arts operates, providing a positive environment for kids, teens, and adults to build confidence and skills that extend beyond the dojo.
Advice for Aspiring Hispanic Entrepreneurs
Mike’s advice to aspiring Hispanic entrepreneurs is rooted in solid business principles:
“Build your systems, know your numbers, and think profit first.”
By building reliable systems, staying on top of financial metrics, and focusing on profitability, entrepreneurs can create a strong foundation for growth and success.
Future Goals: Growth and Community Impact
Looking ahead, Mike’s primary goal for Maldonado ATA Martial Arts is to continue its growth, which will allow for even more community outreach. Expanding the school’s reach means being able to support local initiatives, provide opportunities for young people, and further contribute to the community’s well-being.
“Goals for Maldonado ATA Martial Arts is to continue growth so we can increase our community outreach,” Mike shared.
Final Thoughts
Mike Maldonado’s participation in the entrepreneur panel during Hispanic Heritage Month is a testament to his dedication to not only his business but also the broader community. By sharing his insights and experiences, Mike hopes to inspire other entrepreneurs to stay true to their “Why,” build sustainable businesses, and give back to the community.
If you’re looking for a martial arts school that values growth, community, and the next generation, Maldonado ATA Martial Arts is the place to be. We’re proud to have Mike leading the way and setting an example for entrepreneurs everywhere.