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.

Hobbs Hotspots

Ke’Oanna Espinoza is a young entrepreneur who had a passion project that became a reality. She came to WESST in October 2024 after researching for local help to start her business, Hobbs Hotspots. “A lot comes with starting a business, and because I work full-time, I needed support to help me,” says Ke’Oanna. She needed support to learn the business vocabulary to gain a deeper understanding. She wanted help to learn the steps to launch her own business and how to properly

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

In the Middle

Jessica Lucero came to WESST with a background in media marketing and experience in starting and managing an organization. She already had a strong draft of a business plan and a clear vision for her non-traditional thrift shop, In The Middle. However, like many aspiring business owners, her greatest challenge was access to funding. She had heard of WESST through her business mentor, her very own stepdad. He suggested working with WESST because he knew we helped women start

RETAIL

Inspiring Bead Designs

Kim became familiar with WESST after attending the first annual WE Mean Business: Unstoppable Summit in December 2024, co-hosted by WESST and NMSU’s Arrowhead Center. “From the moment I walked in, I felt welcomed and supported. I saw how committed WESST was to helping business owners like me, and that experience made me want to learn more and build a relationship,” says Kim. After 20 years in real estate, Kim decided to start over and launch her own jewelry business from sc

CREATIVE ARTS

J. Velez Remodeling

J. Velez Remodeling, LLC is a family-owned and operated business. They offer both commercial and residential services, including painting, cleaning, home additions, drywall installation and repairs, plus more. Jose used to work for a company doing handyman work and Mayanin worked cleaning houses. After taking an entrepreneurship class, it sparked them to launch their remodeling business. They knew it was going to be hard, but they wanted to be their own bosses. When they star

CONSTRUCTION

Jean Manz Coaching, LLC

Jean Manz is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience in the profession. Beginning her counseling career soon after earning her Master’s degree and credentials, Jean is a people-oriented professional with a passionate heart for clients and their well-being. Jean Manz Coaching, LLC is a new personal coaching practice headquartered in the San Juan College Business Incubator. The practice is primarily focused on serving public school teachers a

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

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