Sixteen years ago, Pilar Guzmán found herself with a mere $46 in her bank account and a business teetering on the brink of failure. Today, she stands as the CEO of Half Moon Empanadas, a thriving chain with 22 locations across the United States, including 11 in some of the nation's busiest airports. This remarkable turnaround is not just a testament to her resilience but also a beacon of inspiration for entrepreneurs everywhere.

The journey of Half Moon Empanadas began in 2008 in Miami, amidst the harsh economic climate of the financial crisis. The initial days were fraught with challenges: sky-high rent and a withdrawn line of credit pushed the company toward collapse. But Guzmán, driven by unwavering belief in her product and vision, shifted strategies by taking her Argentine-style empanadas to street fairs and university cafeterias—a move that sparked the beginning of a new trajectory.

By 2015, Half Moon Empanadas had made its way into Miami International Airport, setting the stage for exponential growth. Today, it boasts the highest sales per square foot at the airport, surpassing even global giants like Starbucks. The company's presence in airports such as Denver further underscores its success, outperforming other vendors and planning expansions.

Half Moon Empanadas stands out not only for its scrumptious offerings, made from scratch and baked in Miami, but also for its commitment to empowering its workforce. With 120 employees, of which 95% are Latino and 75% are women, Guzmán has created an 'empowerment machine'. She proudly shares how many of her managers began as cashiers or kitchen staff, embodying her philosophy that fostering belief in individuals can profoundly change their lives.

Recognition of Guzmán’s efforts came on April 9, when she was included among the most prominent business women in the United States on the Female Founders 250 list by Inc. Magazine. This accolade honors women whose innovations make significant contributions to their industries and society.

In her rise to success, Guzmán has also been fortunate to receive guidance from mentors like Cuban American businessman Mike Fernández, who provided not only financial backing through community banks but also essential business advice and emotional support. This mentorship, according to Guzmán, played a crucial role in navigating the myriad challenges of entrepreneurship.

Looking ahead, Half Moon Empanadas shows no signs of slowing down. The company's strategy includes expanding its airport presence and leveraging its minority business certification to secure advantageous positions in competitive bidding processes. Moreover, Guzmán is readying her business to reach 'unicorn' status, with ambitious growth targets fueled by new contracts and a resilient post-pandemic recovery.

As she reflects on her journey, Guzmán's vision extends beyond business metrics. She is driven by a desire to inspire Latin women and demonstrate that leadership and motherhood can coexist harmoniously. With her children as her greatest inspiration, she aims to leave a legacy that encourages more authentic flows of leadership among women in business.

In essence, Pilar Guzmán's story from financial uncertainty to entrepreneurial success encapsulates the power of perseverance, the importance of community and mentor support, and the profound impact of believing in oneself and others. Half Moon Empanadas is not just selling food; it's nurturing dreams and building futures, one empanada at a time.