Gina Tello and AEM’s Vision: Building Binational Opportunities Through Strategy

By Woodlandstories Magazine

In a landscape where doing business in the United States is often seen as a natural next step for Mexican entrepreneurs, the reality requires more than intuition: strategy, guidance, and a trusted network.  As Gina Tello explains, she serves as Binational President of the Mexican Entrepreneurs Association (AEM, 2026–2028) and is a key figure in strengthening the chamber’s cross-border impact. She is the first woman in 30 years to lead the organization, which connects entrepreneurs across Mexico and the United States.

With a strong presence across North America, AEM has positioned itself as the most important network of Mexican entrepreneurs in the region. Its strength lies not only in geographic reach, but in building an ecosystem where practical knowledge and shared experience become strategic assets.

“Many people believe that starting a business in the U.S. is simple, but it’s not always the case. You need clarity, strategy, and a deep understanding of where to establish yourself,” Tello explains. This is where AEM plays a critical role—helping entrepreneurs land successfully through a community that has already navigated that journey.

A network that delivers real value

Today, the organization includes 18 binational chapters, coordinated through a leadership council that drives collaboration, connections, and business development. Beyond its structure, the real value lies in its people: entrepreneurs who have successfully established themselves in the U.S. and openly share the “ABC” of doing business in this market.

This model creates what Tello calls a “virtuous circle of trust”—a network where contacts, insights, lessons learned, and opportunities flow freely, accelerating growth for new entrepreneurs looking to expand.

AEM also encourages members to look beyond traditional hubs like Texas and California, highlighting emerging states where incentives, support systems, and untapped opportunities can offer competitive advantages.

30 years and a strategic agenda

The year 2026 marks a major milestone: AEM’s 30th anniversary. Founded in the context of the North American Free Trade Agreement, the organization has evolved into a modern platform for binational business growth.

To commemorate this milestone, AEM has outlined a robust calendar of key events:

• San Antonio, Texas (October 9–10): Anniversary flagship event in the city where the first chapter was established 

• Washington, D.C. (September): Strategic visits with members of Congress to strengthen institutional dialogue 

• San Diego, California (November): California Business Forum featuring experts in U.S.–Mexico trade 

• Monthly virtual events: Including a book club where entrepreneurs and authors share insights and engage directly with members 

Expansion and binational leadership

AEM continues to expand, with new chapters opening in strategic markets such as Miami. The organization is currently active in cities including San Antonio, The Woodlands & Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, San Diego, and San Francisco, as well as multiple regions across Mexico.

Its binational council reflects the organization’s influence, bringing together high-level leaders such as Jerónimo Gutiérrez, Luis de la Calle, and Carlos M. Gutierrez, among other prominent figures in international trade and economic development.

Leaders like Ramiro Cavazos further strengthen ties with a network of more than 260 affiliated chambers across the United States.

Looking ahead to 2026 and beyond

AEM’s vision is clear: to continue building a strong, strategic, and human-centered network that enables Mexican entrepreneurs not only to enter the U.S. market, but to thrive in it.

This is not just about opening doors—it’s about understanding how to walk through them with purpose.

As Gina Tello emphasizes, the mission is simple yet powerful: create the right conditions for every entrepreneur to find real opportunities and build lasting relationships in one of the world’s most competitive markets.

Because in binational business, success is never accidental—it’s built through community, strategy, and execution.