Nueva, Costa, and MLC Media Join Forces to Reshape the U.S. Latino Media Landscape

Nueva Network, Costa Media, and MLC Media have announced a strategic merger to create a powerhouse in U.S. Latino media. By aligning its premium content, radio, and digital networks, local owned-and-operated (O&O) stations, and sales and marketing expertise, the newly combined entity strengthens its position as a leader in the evolving Hispanic media landscape.

Nueva and Costa Media, celebrating four years since their launch in 2021, have successfully built a robust presence in radio network sales, marketing, and local station ownership in Boston and Washington, D.C. Under the leadership of Jose M. Villafañe, Founder and CEO, the companies have collectively generated $50 million in revenue to date.

MLC Media, the largest independently owned Spanish-language prep service and producer of audio, video, and social media content in the U.S., brings 15 years of industry leadership and a track record of over $100 million in revenue. Founded by Carlos Moncada, a media veteran with more than 40 years of experience, MLC Media operates in the U.S., Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Argentina.

The newly merged entity will operate under De Novo One Media Group and DBA as Nueva Network. Carlos Moncada will hold majority ownership, while Jose M. Villafane will continue as Managing Partner and CEO, driving vision, growth strategy, and sales and marketing initiatives. Moncada will oversee business operations, finance, MLC Productions in the U.S. and LATAM, and Costa Media’s local O&O stations.

“This partnership is a game-changer. By integrating content, sales, marketing, and local O&O stations, we’re not just streamlining operations—we’re setting the stage for exponential audience growth and revenue expansion. Jose’s vision, passion, and relentless energy for the industry are unmatched, and I have full confidence in his leadership as we build for the next decade,” shared Mr. Moncada, a successful entrepreneur, who beyond media, owns multiple restaurants in California and an entertainment company that manages and promotes boxing talent, including former World Champion Juan Francisco Estrada.

The merger is valued at approximately $100 million, with a bold vision to scale into a $500 million media powerhouse by the 2030 census. A key driver of this growth will be an innovative digital platform set to launch on March 5, 2025, at the Nueva Network Radio Upfront in NYC and virtual presentation. This platform will integrate traditional radio and digital audio with AI-driven first-party data capabilities, empowering agencies and brands to deepen engagement in the Hispanic multicultural space.

“This merger marks a pivotal moment for our industry. With De Novo One Media and MLC Media united, we can offer unparalleled creative solutions for our brand partners and agencies, expand our premium content, and maximize audience reach through radio and digital assets. More than a business deal, this is about two families coming together—West meets East, Mexico meets Puerto Rico. I’m honored by Carlos Moncada’s trust and excited for what’s ahead,” added Villafañe.