As a first-generation Mexican-American, Javier Loya has an intimate understanding of the challenges his Hispanic community faces. As a business leader, he’s doing his part to create change with a philanthropic vision focused on uplifting through business, education, and sports. From the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) to the Houston Texans, here’s a closer look at Loya’s approach to giving back.
Business as a Force for Community Change
Loya began his career at Columbia University, studying entrepreneurship. After graduating, he saw firsthand the power that business has to change lives. Loya created wealth for himself and his family by starting an energy business, which he and his partners have since built into a global firm.
Now, Loya is taking what he learned and giving back to his community. He regularly supports Hispanic-owned businesses through mentorship, capital investments, and ongoing advocacy work. His mission is to help other Latin American entrepreneurs thrive in whatever fields they choose.
Creating Economic Mobility Through LULAC
Loya’s work with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) exemplifies his community-first approach to philanthropy. His relationship with LULAC is deeply personal—when Loya was a child, his father was wrongfully fired from his job, and the organization helped him get back on his feet. Now, as an adult, Loya is paying it forward by investing in LULAC’s infrastructure, leadership, and long-term success.
He supports programs that promote economic development, job creation, and small business growth within the Hispanic community. By strengthening these initiatives, Loya helps expand opportunities for families and entrepreneurs across Houston. His focus is on empowering individuals through strategic support, not just charity—providing real pathways to advancement.
Loya says, “It’s about understanding the needs of the Latino community and acting strategically to provide meaningful opportunities for success.” Through mentorship, investment, and advocacy, he is working to ensure the next generation has access to the tools they need to thrive.
Uplifting Through Education
Supporting Latin American entrepreneurship is important, but for Loya, it’s only part of the picture. His story is a testament to the power of education, and that’s become another core pillar of his approach to philanthropy.
During Loya’s time at Columbia University, he played football and was named an Honorable Mention All-Ivy League Selection. Football gave Loya the chance to study in New York, learn from world-class professors, and form peer relationships that have lasted a lifetime.
These experiences culminated in Loya purchasing a minority stake in the Houston Texans. Now, he wants today’s young Hispanic Americans to enjoy the same opportunities he had.
To that end, Loya has been key in making local sports showcases possible in Houston and El Paso. These give high school students the opportunity to perform in front of college scouts and earn scholarships. Loya also works with local students through LULAC, doing his part to help his community realize the benefits of higher education.
Strengthening Community Through Strategic Partnerships
Empowering future business leaders and scholars is part of Javier Loya’s vision for uplifting his community. But he also does so by helping organizations like LULAC fund and run events. For example, Loya recently sponsored LULAC’s 90th anniversary gala and the resulting community initiatives.
These events need more than money to truly have an impact. They need strategic partnerships with local leaders, businesses, and organizations. Loya helps here, too, leveraging his connections in the local business scene to rally support behind these critical causes.
Takeaways and Advice for Other Philanthropists
Loya’s background has given him a unique understanding of what minority communities need to thrive. Although he does both, he says that giving back to the Latino community is “about more than building business or donating money. It’s about using my platform to uplift and empower others. By promoting education and economic growth, we can create a brighter future for generations to come.”
This approach of uplifting through education and business is a philanthropic vision anyone can follow. It’s worth considering how you may be able to support these causes in your own life, regardless of the amount of time or money you have to give.
Ultimately, Loya’s takeaway from these experiences focuses on the power of coming together. He says, “I encourage leaders to recognize the power of collective action. Organizations like LULAC provide essential services, advocate for change, and empower individuals. By supporting these efforts, we can build a more just and thriving community for all.”
