Matthew Espinoza, formerly director of programs at San Antonio collaborative startup organization Geekdom, was recently named the new director of Launch SA, a nonprofit that supports local small businesses.
The background
According to a Dec. 5 news release, San Antonio officials in September approved a $1.7 million, three-year agreement with Geekdom to manage Launch SA, which offers resources to local entrepreneurs and small-business owners.
Based at the San Antonio Central Library, Launch SA provides space for workshops for business owners, linking entrepreneurs to funding opportunities and offering educational resources.
The release states Espinoza has more than 10 years of experience in San Antonio’s entrepreneurial community, including a prior stint at Launch SA, and working with the University of Texas at San Antonio Small Business Development Center.
A 2016 UTSA graduate and a San Antonio native, Espinoza has also launched several ventures, including the San Antonio Business Calendar.
What they’re saying
Espinoza said he looks forward to working with the city, and local established and aspiring small-business owners.
“Since 2014, Launch SA has been an important resource for our small-business community, and we look forward to continuing the work and building new programming,” Espinoza said in a statement.
Geekdom CEO Charles Woodin said Espinoza is perfect for the role of leading Launch SA and helping to further collaboration among local entrepreneurs.
“Matthew has such a strong passion for helping entrepreneurs, small businesses and startups across this city. I believe his impact will be felt immediately,” Woodin said in a statement.
What’s next
According to the release, Espinoza will oversee improvements to Launch SA services, including upgrades to the organization’s physical space funded by $30,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Geekdom's first event at Launch SA will be a Shop & Learn Holiday Market on Dec. 13 from 5-8 p.m. The activity will feature holiday shopping, and panel discussions with buyers from H-E-B and with food and consumer packaged goods entrepreneurs. Registration is free and open to the public.
