In the heart of San Antonio, a city brimming with history, culture, and potential, there was a silent frustration bubbling beneath the surface. Entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners from underserved communities often found themselves at a crossroads. The dream was there, the passion was palpable, but the resources? They were scarce.
Enter Lina Rugova, a seasoned business consultant with a heart for community and an eye for opportunity. As she navigated the city's business landscape, Lina couldn't help but notice the glaring gap. San Antonio had its fair share of startups and tech hubs, but where were the support systems for the mom-and-pop shops, the local artisans, or the family-run eateries?
It wasn't just about starting a business; it was about sustaining it, growing it, and ensuring it became a staple in the community. Lina recognized that these small businesses were the backbone of San Antonio, and they deserved more than just a fighting chance.
And so, out of a mix of need, frustration, and sheer determination, Emerge and Rise was born. It wasn't just another business incubator; it was a haven for those who felt left behind in the entrepreneurial race. A place where dreams weren't just nurtured but were given the tools to thrive and flourish.
Lina's vision was clear: to create a platform where underserved communities could access resources, mentorship, and guidance to turn their business dreams into brick-and-mortar realities.
Now, Emerge and Rise isn't just an incubator; it is a testament to the power of recognizing a need, taking a leap, and believing in the potential of a community.
In San Antonio, a city teeming with vibrancy and promise, Lina's passion for her community shines brightly. While she recognizes the significance of nurturing young talent, her mission extends to the larger fabric of San Antonio's entrepreneurial spirit. She is dedicated to uplifting all aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those facing uph
In San Antonio, a city teeming with vibrancy and promise, Lina's passion for her community shines brightly. While she recognizes the significance of nurturing young talent, her mission extends to the larger fabric of San Antonio's entrepreneurial spirit. She is dedicated to uplifting all aspiring entrepreneurs, especially those facing uphill battles. Whether it's a fledgling entrepreneur straight out of college or someone taking a leap of faith later in life, Lina believes in their potential. By weaving innovation into the DNA of traditional business models and fostering a supportive environment, she aims to ensure that every business, no matter how small, has the tools to flourish. Through her work at Emerge and Rise and her numerous professional engagements, Lina underscores that bolstering individual businesses not only paves the way for personal success but also enriches the entire San Antonio community.
With over 15 years of experience in management consulting, strategic planning, and digital marketing, she is passionate about helping small businesses re-engineer and re-design their organizations to fit their goals personally and professionally. She advises service-based small businesses on how to restructure internal processes, implement innovation, and create partnerships for growth.
Lina holds Bachelor's Degree in Business and a Master's Degree in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship from the Pennsylvania State University, with certificates in AI, Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma, Corporate Risk Management, Crisis Management, Continuous Improvement, and Digital Marketing.
Andrew is an enthusiastic Marketing Assistant intern at Emerge and Rise, joining us from the Alamo Colleges District.
Currently pursuing a Business Administration degree at Northeast Lakeview College, he balances his studies with real-world experience, aiming to become an entrepreneur.
His journey includes roles at the Doubletree by Hilton
Andrew is an enthusiastic Marketing Assistant intern at Emerge and Rise, joining us from the Alamo Colleges District.
Currently pursuing a Business Administration degree at Northeast Lakeview College, he balances his studies with real-world experience, aiming to become an entrepreneur.
His journey includes roles at the Doubletree by Hilton – Downtown San Antonio, where he was recognized for his exemplary service. A multi-skilled individual, Andrew holds certifications in Microsoft Word and Excel and is fluent in Spanish.
His dedication to community service and his passion for business principles make him an invaluable addition to our team.
Steve is a highly accomplished banking professional, bringing over 25 years of invaluable experience to his role as the Senior Vice President and Business Banking Manager at The Bank of San Antonio. With a passion for supporting local businesses, Steve is dedicated to providing custom-designed financial solutions that address the unique n
Steve is a highly accomplished banking professional, bringing over 25 years of invaluable experience to his role as the Senior Vice President and Business Banking Manager at The Bank of San Antonio. With a passion for supporting local businesses, Steve is dedicated to providing custom-designed financial solutions that address the unique needs of entrepreneurs and enterprises alike.
Throughout his career, Steve has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service-oriented partnerships, aiming to build strong and enduring relationships with his clients. Whether it's commercial mortgages, construction financing, or other financial products, Steve's expertise and personalized approach have been instrumental in fueling the growth and success of numerous businesses in San Antonio.
Steve's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs extends beyond the boardroom. He actively engages with the San Antonio business community, offering vital resources, guidance, and unwavering support to aspiring and established business owners alike. His extensive network and experience have proven to be invaluable assets in fostering an environment conducive to innovation and success.
Elected 4/2023
Sarah is a Texas business attorney dedicated to providing access to affordable, high-quality legal services to nonprofits, small businesses, start-ups, and moderate-income individuals.
Sarah is dedicated to providing high-quality legal services to startups, small businesses, nonprofits, and moderate-income individuals. Her practice encompa
Sarah is a Texas business attorney dedicated to providing access to affordable, high-quality legal services to nonprofits, small businesses, start-ups, and moderate-income individuals.
Sarah is dedicated to providing high-quality legal services to startups, small businesses, nonprofits, and moderate-income individuals. Her practice encompasses both litigation and transactional matters.
Sarah earned her B.S. in Political Science from Lamar University, her Master of Public Administration from Lamar University, and her J.D. from the University of Oklahoma College of Law. During graduate school, her studies focused on nonprofit creation, development, and management.
Elected 6/2022
A Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) of 9 years, Amanda works to introduce principles of Asset Based Community Development & Agile Project Management into redesigning NGOs, community groups, and businesses. Amanda's domestic & international work experiences have served as exploratory studies in her growing research on organizational l
A Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) of 9 years, Amanda works to introduce principles of Asset Based Community Development & Agile Project Management into redesigning NGOs, community groups, and businesses. Amanda's domestic & international work experiences have served as exploratory studies in her growing research on organizational leadership, leading to the founding of AB Community Development Solutions. Though created to increase the operational efficiency of the beleaguered community serving systems, her consulting also prompts organic growth & sustainable programmatic change.
In her free time, the Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) educates the general public on the mutual benefits of service-learning through initiatives like Americorps.
Elected 6/2022
Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Javier indulged in the film industry at a young age. After his freshman year of college at Sacred Heart University, Javier relocated to San Antonio, Texas, to pursue other industry opportunities.
In 2012, he created Monocle Firm, a multimedia company that seeks to incorporate cinematic and creative film
Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Javier indulged in the film industry at a young age. After his freshman year of college at Sacred Heart University, Javier relocated to San Antonio, Texas, to pursue other industry opportunities.
In 2012, he created Monocle Firm, a multimedia company that seeks to incorporate cinematic and creative filming in commercial and independent productions. Monocle has grown with multiple departments, freelance artists, and community services in the past four years.
Elected 6/2022
Maggie is a Texas transactional lawyer based in San Antonio who works in the fields of energy, business, and real estate. Her practice specializes in situations where the three areas overlap, helping people find solutions to existing and unique complications, as well as working with clients to develop strategies for real estate and energ
Maggie is a Texas transactional lawyer based in San Antonio who works in the fields of energy, business, and real estate. Her practice specializes in situations where the three areas overlap, helping people find solutions to existing and unique complications, as well as working with clients to develop strategies for real estate and energy development, business or property acquisitions and divestitures, and other goal-related planning. She is Board Certified in Oil, Gas, and Mineral Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Maggie earned her B.S. in Legal Studies from American Military University and her J.D. from St. Mary’s University School of Law, graduating cum laude. She is currently pursuing her LL.M. in Taxation from Villanova School of Law.
Elected 2/2023
Jaime is a community champion, family man, and business dynamo. Rooted in San Antonio, Jaime's heart beats in sync with the local rhythm. Schooled at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a Bachelor's in Business Administration and enriched with a Masters of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary, Jaime perfectly marries business
Jaime is a community champion, family man, and business dynamo. Rooted in San Antonio, Jaime's heart beats in sync with the local rhythm. Schooled at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a Bachelor's in Business Administration and enriched with a Masters of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary, Jaime perfectly marries business prowess with community spirit.
In the competitive business landscape, Jaime has emerged as a beacon of dedication and hard work. His talents range from sales to marketing, emphasizing fostering genuine connections. But his accolades and accomplishments tell just part of the story.
Above all, Jaime is known for his unwavering commitment to family and community. Whether mentoring the next generation of local entrepreneurs or enjoying quality moments with his family, Jaime believes in the power of relationships and community-building. His addition to the Emerge and Rise board promises business acumen and a heart and soul deeply tied to our shared mission.
Elected 9/2023
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Emerge and Rise - Business Incubator/Accelerator
10127 Morocco St, Ste 183, San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: 210-880-9330
© 2021-2024 Emerge and Rise, Inc.™ 501(c)3 Nonprofit Tax ID 87-1714805. All Rights Reserved. Website by Luna Bain.