STORIES OF IMPACT

At WESST, we believe the heart of our mission is best told through the journeys of the entrepreneurs we serve. In our Client Stories section, you’ll find inspiring accounts of New Mexican business owners—at every stage of their ventures—who have been transformed through WESST’s consulting, training, lending, and incubation support. These stories highlight how we partner with clients to turn ideas into thriving, sustainable businesses, showing the real impact of guidance, financial tools, and persistence.

From wellness centers, retail brands, and service businesses to manufacturing and tech enterprises, each narrative underscores how tailored resources, mentorship, and belief in their vision helped these founders overcome obstacles, build confidence, and grow with purpose.

Upcycled Fashion

Anita’s Endeavors LLC, also known as Upcycled Fashion, is a line of unique gifts that are made exclusively from repurposed materials. Inventory includes women’s and children’s fashions, home décor, and green arrangements. All of the items are crafted by artisans in rural New Mexico. Customers often wonder if products are really “upcycled” as the attention to detail and quality makes it hard to tell what the item was before it was transformed into the current treasure. Anita h

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Video Exitos, Inc.

When Silvia Terrazas first came to this country, her driving entrepreneurial desire kept her focused while she tackled two major barriers: 1) She spoke only Spanish, and 2) Her son was born with one foot which required new prostheses as he grew. Regardless of the adversity she faced, Silvia’s strength and tenacity were instrumental in helping meet business goals. In 2000, Silvia, with her Employment Authorization Card in hand, came to WESST for a loan to open a video rental s

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