Seven Graduate from Long Prairie Enterprise Academy
The Initiative Foundation is celebrating the graduation of seven entrepreneurs from the Long Prairie Enterprise Academy. Through the program, participants received business training, mentorship and coaching designed to help them launch, grow and strengthen their businesses.
The spring 2026 graduates represent a diverse group of aspiring entrepreneurs with business ideas spanning food service, child care, personal wellness and beauty services. Many are building businesses that reflect their cultural backgrounds while meeting needs within their communities.
“Enterprise Academy equips entrepreneurs with the tools, confidence and support they need to move their businesses forward,” said Zach Tabatt, Initiative Foundation vice president for economic opportunity. “These graduates have invested in themselves and their ideas, and we’re excited to see the businesses they build and the positive impact they’ll have across Central Minnesota.”
Here is a snapshot of several entrepreneurs who completed the program:
Gladys Mejia Acosta of Long Prairie is building Dos Islands Kitchen, a Caribbean food business she hopes to one day expand into a food truck. Originally from Puerto Rico, she joined Enterprise Academy to strengthen her business skills and prepare for future growth while sharing authentic Caribbean flavors with her community.
Kendri Reyes, owner of Jardín de Amor in Long Prairie, provides child care for children ages 3 months to 12 years. Through Enterprise Academy, she gained tools to help grow her business while continuing to provide a safe, nurturing environment for local families.
Miguel Ángel Vega of Long Prairie is developing Tio’s Kitchen, a Puerto Rican food business he currently operates from home. Drawing on years of restaurant management experience, he participated in Enterprise Academy to gain the tools needed to formally launch and grow his business.
Jahaira Brioso is launching Brioso Therapeutic Massage, a business focused on helping clients reduce pain, recover from injuries and relieve physical stress. Originally from the Dominican Republic, she joined Enterprise Academy to learn how to build a business that serves her community.
The cohort was led by trainer Miozoti Nieves, an Enterprise Academy graduate who guided participants through the steps to develop business plans, strengthen financial knowledge and prepare for long-term success.
To learn more about Enterprise Academy, visit ifound.org/economy/enterprise-academy.
Meet the rest of the graduates: ifound.org/business-services/enterprise-academy/meet-graduates.