Galy Montes
Co-Founder
Mercadera
About Galy Montes
Galy Montes is a proud Latina leader, entrepreneur, and mother dedicated to empowering women and strengthening Wisconsin’s Hispanic community. Originally from Zacatecas, Mexico, she moved to Milwaukee, where she built a legacy of resilience and leadership.
She is the co-founder of Mercadera, the largest Latina business community in Wisconsin, which started as a small Facebook group in 2021 and now supports over 3,000 women. Through Mercadera Market, Galy creates opportunities for Latina entrepreneurs by organizing in-person markets, business workshops, and networking events.
In addition, Galy owns Paletería Yayo, a business she and her husband have run since 2018, providing jobs for over 40 street vendors while celebrating culture and tradition.
Her impact has been widely recognized—she was named one of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Latina Leaders and received the 40 Under 40 Award, honoring her contributions to economic and community growth.
Through her work, Galy uplifts street vendors, empowers women, and proves that barriers—language included—cannot stop those determined to succeed.