Prospera Honors Three Central Florida Businesses

Prospera marked its 35th anniversary by honoring three Central Florida small businesses at its annual entrepreneurship celebration. Presented by OUC, the event at the Orlando Science Center recognized businesses that have benefited from Prospera’s services. The nonprofit provides bilingual assistance for entrepreneurs starting, sustaining, and growing businesses. Over the past five years, it has facilitated $56.8 million in loans, trained more than 17,700 entrepreneurs, and helped clients create or retain more than 17,600 jobs.

Three Businesses Recognized

The 2026 Prospera Success Stories honorees were Hernán Bedoya, owner of SOS Diesel Mechanical Services; Marivict and Mario Silva, owners of 2M Graphics; and Elvis Torres, owner of Optimal Point Solutions.

Prospera serves entrepreneurs in Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia. Its assistance is aimed at business owners who need support at different stages of building a company.

Community Leaders Join Program

Prospera Regional Vice President Katia Medina led the program, which brought together public, private, financial, and community leaders to discuss challenges facing small businesses. Speakers included City of Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, who received recognition for eight years of service as Orange County Mayor and support for Prospera’s mission.

The event also included a panel on political, economic, and social conditions affecting small businesses and community organizations. Participants represented Truist, Orange County, Hispanic Federation, Kings Service Solutions, Bank of America, and Prospera.

“We celebrate Hispanic entrepreneurs whose impact extends far beyond their businesses. At OUC, we’re dedicated to supporting their journeys with energy and water solutions that save time and money, ensuring their success takes root and strengthens our community for generations.”

Support For Business Owners

Prospera has specialized in bilingual business assistance since 1991. Its services are for entrepreneurs who want help starting, sustaining, or growing a business.

The celebration was also supported by sponsors including Duke Energy, Verizon, Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase, Orlando Health, Orlando Magic, TD Bank, Walt Disney Parks & Resorts, and Wells Fargo.