Miguel Velez first came across Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu in the Fall of 2000 at 19 years old by accident in college. He needed an elective course that year and although he really wanted to do Hapkido, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu was the only option that fit the schedule. He begrudgingly signed up for the class. On day 1, his instructor showed clips of “ Gracie in Action 2” on an old dvd copy. When he watched the video he said, “ It displayed the effectiveness of Jiu-Jitsu against other martial arts and how it focused on the most important yet neglected part of fighting…that 90% of altercations end up on the ground. Every match showed the same thing, the BJJ practitioner would close the distance, clinch, take their opponent down, and then tap them out.”
Before he entered Jiu-Jitsu his assumption of how it was, was wrong and he became instantly hooked. After he had passed the course, He enrolled in the Academy and made it part of his life ever since. Miguel knew he wanted to make this passion into a business. His wife had just passed the State Bar of Texas, which soon after they got pregnant. After their daughter was born they had decided it would be best for Miguel to stay home. At the same time, his instructor needed a few more part time coaches to help build the program, so began to be a stay at home dad during the day and BJJ coach at night which he said was a pretty cool routine.
As he became more confident in his abilities, he told himself “When the time is right…I could probably do this but I have no idea where to start. His wife and him both knew Scarlett would grow up and not need him at home one day so they began discussing future plans for him to return back to work. September of 2023 is when he started the process of finding answers to make his dream a reality. Jiu-Jitsu had always been a part of his life. He would constantly joke with his wife, Aimee, saying, “I’m finally gonna use my business degree from Texas Tech.” She would remind him that he has been using it this entire time.
When he first started his business there were some challenges he had to overcome which tend to cross over with each other. One of the struggles was students. He needed to find a healthy balance between training life, work life and family life. He kept pushing himself to train with other black belts out there that can make you question why anyone would subject themselves to this.
The second challenge was coaching. To him as a coach and a leader he wanted to share his knowledge to the students to make sense to everyone in different levels of experience while keeping the students engaged.
The last challenge was being a business owner. Taking his experiences as a student and coach then asking himself, “Am I really capable of taking my passion for the last 25 years and turning it into a successful operation? Do I have the tools to understand Administration? Bookkeeping? Taxes? Marketing? Conflict Resolution?”
The imposter syndrome and self doubt would kick in. He says, “They used to show their ugly faces from time to time but not anymore. I know I can do this.” When he decided it was time to pursue this endeavor, their financial advisor gave him a list of checkpoints to reach. He said that part took a few years to get done. Afterwards, he scheduled an appt. with his local bank, Bank of America, an SMB officer and from there they were introduced to the amazing resources from the City of Austin Economic Development Department. He scheduled his live BizAid orientation and discovered CDFIs PeopleFund and organizations like Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI).
“EGBI helped provide the knowledge and confidence I needed to make this passion a reality. “I’ve taken 4 courses: Manage Your Business, Bookkeeping Series, Marketing Workshop, Minority Certification from them over the last year and I cannot stress enough how their guidance filled in the missing gaps. Their friendly and welcoming approach has been crucial in preparing us. I plan to take the 60 Days to Success course and connect with other small business owners at future Lunch and Learns. “
What Miguel wants to teach people in Jiu-Jitsu is to believe in themselves and build them up. He wants to show people there are so many awesome results from consistent BJJ training. Self discipline, self defense, flexibility, core development, self confidence, and weight loss. There’s also a social aspect to their Academy. They want to build a community. A place where families come together for a common goal. They will start with Gi Jiu-Jitsu for children, teens, and adults. He says that a big part of this training incorporates both Judo and Wrestling takedowns. When they’ve grown a large enough student base, NoGi Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Yoga programs will be implemented.
Miguel feels like balance is important when it comes to handling your business and your day to day life. So when he’ss not at the gym getting smashed or prepping for tournaments, he 100% enjoys spending time with his family and making memories. His wife, Aimee, and daughter, Scarlett, love going to the water park, watching movies, cooking, playing video games, going on trips, lazy Saturday nights on the couch together, and raising their new puppy, Cookie. Recently, Scarlett just discovered Lego Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga on the PS5. It’s something they get to do together and now she’s a superfan of anything Star Wars. He really enjoys spending time with his family and he says, “It’s been really cool introducing my 8yr old to the lore like my dad did for me.” Lastly, something Miguel would tell people that don't know too much about Jiu-Jitsu is, “Jiu-Jitsu isn’t about hurting people. It’s about learning how not to get hurt while staying calm, thinking clearly, and using leverage over force. When trained properly, it’s one of the safest martial arts because of the tap system and constant mutual respect.”
If you would like to get in contact with miguel to learn more about his company you can call him at 512-850-7784 or you can go to his website at https://clanvelez.com/
If you would like to help start or grow your business please be sure to reach out to us at hello@egbi.org
Carlos Nazario is a business coach and tax advisor. He has quite an impressive background as both a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) and a JD (Juris Doctor). He is currently the CEO of Tax Man Consulting, a tax preparation service for driven entrepreneurs. Carlos does a lot of the managing that is involved with the service. He recruits and trains clients, as well as signing them contracts. He supervised them and their work, with a flexible stance. Carlos is also involved with the Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI), and supports many of the small businesses related to the organization.
In his earlier years, Carlos spent time in his father’s office where he studied and developed an interest in taxes. He met his father’s friend and counselor: a CPA and lawyer who would later mentor Carlos. This lawyer saw potential and advised Carlos to get a bachelor’s degree in accounting then law. Following this advice, Carlos got his bachelor’s in accounting and his JD from the University of Puerto Rico, setting a strong educational foundation for his dual‑discipline approach. After 9 years of study, he was ready to enter the professional world.
Carlos gained experience at both big 8 and smaller accounting firms, giving him a broad view of the industry and an appreciation for the unique challenges faced by small businesses. Carlos discovered that he appreciated the small mom and pops shops that are often overlooked. The opportunity to see these small businesses grow is what keeps him determined in his job. This led him to discover Taxman Consulting as he could apply both his accounting and legal knowledge while directly supporting the growth of small businesses
His passion for small business success is what led Carlos to get involved with EGBI. For him, giving back to the community is more than just a good deed—it’s a way to pay forward the knowledge and mentorship he received early in his career. “EGBI is full of resources and real knowledge,” he says. “It’s rewarding to see businesses go from an idea to something sustainable and profitable.”
One of Carlos’s most notable mentorship experiences was with a client who wanted to open a preschool.They were struggling at first to form the idea and execute the business plan. They weren’t sure if this was the right design and needed advice. Carlos stepped in to help them navigate everything from regulations to logistics. There was a lot of potential in this idea since the demand for preschools was very high at the time. He encouraged them to start small by converting part of their home into a childcare space. Within three months, they were up and running. The business grew quickly, and they eventually purchased a second facility. Carlos is now helping them expand into that space as well. Their first year brought it a great profit showing how success can come with the right idea, execution and guidance.
When asked what advice he’d give to aspiring entrepreneurs, Carlos is quick to emphasize the importance of being prepared. “Take advantage of organizations like EGBI,” he says. “Know what resources are out there. Build relationships with a banker, with a CPA. Know who to call and when to call them. Planning and having a good network are everything.”
Overall, Carlos Nazario’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right guidance and a willingness to give back, it’s possible to make a real difference in the lives of others. Through his work, he’s helping build stronger, more empowered small businesses, as well as giving back to the community. If you would like support in starting or running a business from EGBI, click the link below. https://egbi.org/
Lorena Zuniga was born and raised in Austin, Texas. From a young age, she knew she wanted to become an entrepreneur. In her early twenties, that dream became reality when she opened and operated her own hair salon. Inspired by her grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit, Lorena developed a passion for running her own business.
However, not everyone shared her enthusiasm. Her parents, both employed in government and state positions, were hesitant about her career path. They encouraged her to pursue what they considered a more stable, “real” job. Despite their concerns, Lorena’s salon was thriving at the time. One evening , while being out, she reconnected with an old friend who mentioned how well things were going at her workplace. Half-joking, Lorena asked for help landing an interview—and to her surprise, it worked. That opportunity led her to a new career path in the title industry.
Lorena began working at AMCap Mortgage, LTD, a title agency. For those unfamiliar, title agencies are essential players in real estate and business development. As a Business Development Representative, Lorena played a key role in driving growth, building relationships, and expanding the agency’s client base. Over the years, she gained valuable experience working with several different title companies.
It was during this time that Lorena discovered her love for B2B—business-to- business—interactions. Unlike working directly with consumers, B2B allowed her to engage with individuals who already understood the industry, eliminating the need to explain the basics of her work. This shift brought her a greater sense of fulfillment and efficiency.
When asked how she first learned about the Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI), Lorena shared that it was through Monica, a friend and colleague who had been involved in supporting small businesses even before joining EGBI. Lorena admired Monica’s dedication and was excited to support her when she began working with the organization.
What resonated most with Lorena was EGBI’s mission to help entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses. Having experienced the challenges of entrepreneurship herself, she understands the importance of that support. She continues to be inspired by the work EGBI does and enjoys watching Monica thrive in her role, driven by a shared passion for empowering others.
If you would like to help start or grow your business please be sure to reach out to us at hello@egbi.org
Aida A. Ramirez is a financial expert and founder of Aida’s Financial Solutions, a service for small business owners navigating complicated financial decisions. Aida specializes in multiple skills including tax preparation, financial coaching, as well as guiding clients toward long-term success.
Aida has been connected with the Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) for many years. Her involvement began through her friendship with Monica Peña, whose work she’s long admired. Aida saw how EGBI provides necessary support and resources for entrepreneurs facing barriers. Over time, Aida began referring friends and clients to EGBI for help launching or formalizing their small business ideas. “Without organizations like EGBI, many of these ventures might never have the opportunity to take off,” Aida explains.
She currently continues to support the organization and its mission to empower underserved entrepreneurs across Central Texas.
Aida’s determination to support others is what inspired her to start Aida’s Financial Solutions. After years in the industry, she wanted to be able to financially advise people well, also making them comfortable to ask questions. The most rewarding aspect of her job is knowing that she reduced the financial stress that brought someone through the door. “I want my clients to walk away not just with a solution, but with the confidence to handle their financial future,” she says.
When working with each client closely, Aida first explains how the financial system works then walks them through how their unique situation fits within that framework. Her approach is fully transparent, as she will lay out the options face up to their clients and explain what each one of them means. Once people understand the process they are capable of making smart independent designs for themselves and their business.
Communication is the most important skill for someone looking to start a financial services business. “You have to be able to explain complex topics in a basic, clear, and detailed way,” she says. Aida encourages new professionals to be patient and willing to spend extra time with each client. Many of them have never had someone take the time to truly explain things before. Care and clarity is what can change lives.
Aida A. Ramirez is driven by a passion for helping others feel confident about their finances.
Whether through one-on-one support or connecting clients with EGBI, she’s focused on making financial literacy clear, accessible, and empowering.
Claudio Lopez is from Mexico City and has been living in the US for several years, because his wife Irma Orozco is a Tejana. Ever since he was young, Lopez said art has always been a passion of his. “I have always liked to work with my hands and I cultivated drawing and art through my teenage years and took up painting as an adult experimenting with realism, abstract and neorealism styles,” he said.
It wasn’t until 40 years later when Lopez sought to combine his artistic ability with a career that he became a jewelry designer. “As a child I remember visiting jewelry design shops with my dad who owned a jewelry and watch retail business in Mexico City and being fascinated as I watched the masters work with gold, silver and stones and then polish the pieces into shiny jewelry,” he said.
He began making handcrafted jewelry in 2011, and began selling at local events in and around San Antonio. In 2012 he launched his website but then realized he needed to study techniques to diversify his designs, so he enrolled at Austin Community College and learned the basics of metalsmithing and stone setting, studying masters like Peter Carl Fabregé, Rene Lalique and Jacques Cartier. In 2016 he received his Associates degree in Applied Science in Jewelry at ACC.
Lopez believes that you have to be passionate about art and creation to try to establish a business where you use your imagination, your hands, and decide to show and sell the artwork to people.
“As in any other arts and crafts field, there are very supportive people and there are others who are critical,” he said. “But if you know that this activity is your passion, the only important thing is to put your ideas into action.” As a jeweler, Lopez says he designs all his jewelry and enjoys incorporating abstract design into his work.
“As a jeweler, I decide what to do the same way a plastic artist decides; the difference is that my media are metals such as gold, silver, copper and resin and the end product are necklaces, earrings, rings, pendants and bracelets,” he said. “I just have to know how to work with metals, fire and stones, which enhance my color palette.”
Lopez has some classic designs he follows, but when a client requires a custom piece and gives him a specific design he follows their example. He says his wife was the first one to contact the Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) to learn how to run a business to help him with the new business that he began 13 years ago, an Artisan Mercado where Latinx artists could have a place to sell their artwork. EGBI has various ways they help business owners through their business coaching, various training opportunities, and support services.
“Since then, we have supported EGBI and we consider that the mission of this institution is formative, helping people to start their businesses,” he said. “ In the past, we have also invited EGBI clients to sell at the Latinx art market, which is currently held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. the first and third Saturday of the month in downtown Austin.”
If you would like to make an appointment with an EGBI business coach, visit https://egbi.org/coach/ .
Ryan Melendez is a banking professional with over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. He currently serves as the Vice President and Branch Leader at Truist Bank, where he focuses on helping individuals and small businesses grow through trusted financial guidance. Ryan didn’t initially plan to go into banking,but the field became something he felt passionate about.
“After my time at Dell, I was just looking for a job,” Ryan says. He ended up at IBC Bank, and from there, found a genuine interest in the world of banking. What began as a job turned into a career where he focused on building relationships and helping others succeed. Over time, Ryan’s role evolved from handling transactions to becoming more of a financial advisor. “It’s not just about banking anymore. It’s about how we can serve you,” he says.
Ryan has been involved with Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) since 2014. He was first invited to get involved by a former director, and since then, has become a strong supporter of the organization’s mission. One of his most meaningful experiences was working with Alejandro Medina, owner of Complus Systems, a small business owner whom he helped through advice and support. “He started small, and I got to watch him grow and thrive,” Ryan says. He values the opportunity to give back to the community, especially to Latino entrepreneurs looking for guidance and encouragement.
“EGBI gave me the chance to meet people, help them start businesses, and build real community connections,” Ryan says. “That kind of interaction means more to me now than anything I did in IT years ago.”
Outside of banking, Ryan serves in the Texas State Guard, where he continues to demonstrate leadership and discipline. Balancing a banking career with military service isn’t easy. “Some weekends I’m waking up at 4 a.m. to drill,” he says. “But it gives me a sense of pride. I get to serve my community both in and out of uniform.”
In addition to his work at the bank and his military service, Ryan has mentored clients, trained young professionals, as well as hosted a radio show called Más Allá del Dinero, which focused on financial literacy in the Latino community. “A lot of us struggle with confidence when it comes to money,” he says. “I want to change that and help our community invest more, save more, and buy homes.”
When asked what keeps him motivated, Ryan’s answer is simple: “Seeing results. Leaving an impact.” After years in the industry, he continues to focus on making a difference in people’s financial lives and in their communities.
If you would like support in starting or running a business from EGBI, click the link below. https://egbi.org/
