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.

Down to Earth and Radicle, LLC

Christie became an entrepreneur to change the world. With no business experience or any idea what it would take to be a business owner, she wanted to affect positive change for people and the environment and founded Down to Earth, LLC in 1999. Christie believed that if people felt strongly enough about their food, land and natural resources, we would have a chance to turn the powerful tide of bioengineered crops, industrial agriculture and ecosystems denuded of living soil an

NATURE & WILDLIFE

Duran’s Window Painting LLC & Flor y Canto Fine Art

Duran’s Window Painting LLC provides unique window art and murals for all Holidays, seasons, and occasions. Marissa currently works with both residential and commercial clients in Rio Rancho, Albuquerque, and other surrounding areas, including Southern Colorado. She produces high-quality and unique designs that bring color and joy to the community year-round. Flor y Canto Fine Art is the other side of her business where she creates original artwork that celebrates her culture

CREATIVE ARTS

Eagle Drums

Born in Albuquerque and raised on the Cochiti Pueblo reservation, Gilbert “Eagle” Herrera has 35 years of drum making experience. At 45, the fourth generation drum maker learned the art process from his father, Redbird. When his father Redbird decided it was time to stop making drums, Eagle was determined to start creating his own style of drums while also continuing the traditional drum maker style that has been in the family for years. Eagle carefully selects Aspen trees fr

RETAIL

Emma Fountain Solutions

Emma Fountain Solutions offers professional organizing and personal assistant services tailored to small businesses and individuals. Services for small business clients tend to be straightforward with bookkeeping, organizing, small projects, and office relocation. With personal assistant services, taking care of someone’s to-do-list is an everchanging service that has included anything from rearing baby chicks to driving someone’s Bentley. Starting her personal service-based

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

El Coco Pirata LLC

Jorge and Carmen Cruz Garza are the proud owners of El Coco Pirata LLC, a unique culinary gem in the heart of Roswell. The now-franchise owners’ journey began several years ago, when they were inspired by their love of food and desire to bring something new to their community. The Cruz Garza family encountered hurdles along the way, from complex licensing requirements and financial restraints to leasing an adequate building. Dedicated and determined, they kept going and re

FOOD & BEVERAGE

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