Mari Ramos
Idaho Hispanic Foundation
My work is rooted in building equitable economic ecosystems that empower communities with a focus on the Hispanic community. As Executive Director of the Idaho Hispanic Foundation (IHF), I’ve led efforts to support food entrepreneurs and strengthen culturally relevant food systems across the state. A core part of this work includes helping individuals formalize and launch food-based businesses—guiding them through incorporation, licensing, and access to capital. I’ve worked hands-on with dozens of vendors, many of whom have faced language, financial, or regulatory barriers, to help them turn informal food enterprises into viable sources of income and community pride.
We were also instrumental in launching the 208 Night Market, a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and entrepreneurship that brings together local vendors—many of them Hispanic and immigrant-owned—for an evening of commerce, food, and cultural connection. The market has quickly become a launching pad for food microbusinesses and a safe space for innovation and community gathering. This year we are launching a similar concept in Caldwell.
Most recently, I’m overseeing t development of the commercial kitchen at the Idaho Hispanic Community Center (IH2C). This space will serve as a small business incubator, allowing entrepreneurs to test, produce, and scale food ventures without prohibitive startup costs. Our goal is not just to provide facilities, but to build a full support ecosystem—including workshops, mentorship, and access to local markets.
In my role on the state team, I’m committed to ensuring Idaho’s food systems reflect and uplift the communities we serve.
We were also instrumental in launching the 208 Night Market, a vibrant celebration of culture, food, and entrepreneurship that brings together local vendors—many of them Hispanic and immigrant-owned—for an evening of commerce, food, and cultural connection. The market has quickly become a launching pad for food microbusinesses and a safe space for innovation and community gathering. This year we are launching a similar concept in Caldwell.
Most recently, I’m overseeing t development of the commercial kitchen at the Idaho Hispanic Community Center (IH2C). This space will serve as a small business incubator, allowing entrepreneurs to test, produce, and scale food ventures without prohibitive startup costs. Our goal is not just to provide facilities, but to build a full support ecosystem—including workshops, mentorship, and access to local markets.
In my role on the state team, I’m committed to ensuring Idaho’s food systems reflect and uplift the communities we serve.