Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

After completing the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business program, I recognized a critical gap: small businesses and nonprofits need branding that rivals Fortune 500 companies. This realization led to the creation of El Poder de la Marca (The Power of the Brand). For three years, this program has empowered minority business owners in Chicago to elevate their brands and create meaningful community impact.

How do you stay motivated?

I am driven by our tenacious small business owners in Little Village and Pilsen, Chicago who inspire me to secure funding for branding services that fuel their growth. Our work goes beyond building brands; it transforms visions and drives economic success for future generations. It’s rewarding to witness minority entrepreneurs take charge of their brands. At FourStar Branding, we are committed to the community, driven by design, and focused on making a meaningful economic impact.

What would you do with the $25,000?

We are funding the El Poder de la Marca® (The Power of the Brand®º Community Impact Branding Program, a pro bono initiative that empowers underserved and minority-owned small businesses with essential branding tools for growth. This funding supports early-stage entrepreneurs who lack access to professional branding but have the potential to scale. Our mission is to create sustainable small businesses that generate jobs and strengthen our Chicago communities and economies.