Planting Seeds for Collective Prosperity

Local neighborhoods are the lifeblood of our communities. They’re also where small businesses can drive true social impact. At ESO, we work to uplift the folks investing in impact through local entrepreneurship, promoting economic equity and prosperity with the power of small business.

ESO—an acronym for Entrepreneurial Support Organization and a nod to our birthplace (East Side Oakland)—may have roots in the Bay Area, but we partner with entrepreneurs across the entire state of California. Our team members leverage their diverse skills and strengths to ensure every entrepreneur in our ecosystem receives well-rounded, practical and strategic support. From seasoned marketing strategists to financial wizards, every member of ESO is committed to your business expansion and holistic, professional growth.

Our Team

  • Martha Hernandez

    Co-Founder and CEO

    she/her

  • Alfredo Mathew III

    Co-Founder and Strategic Partner

    he/him

  • Ben Wanzo

    Co-Founder and CTO

    he/him

  • Akintunde Ahmad

    Marketing & Communications Senior Manager

    he/him

  • Alejandra Magaña Gamero

    Entrepreneur Experience Manager

    She/Her

  • Arrielle Polk

    Operations Specialist

    she/her

  • Ashley Moreland-Mizzi

    Head of Business Services & Fund

    she/her

  • Daniel Medina

    Investment Fund Manager

    he/him

  • Dax Moreno

    Head of Business Development & Operations

    he/him

  • Esther Santamaria

    Operations Manager

    she/her

  • Kelley Nayo-Jahi

    Community Engagement Manager

    she/her

  • Lorena Borrayo

    Business Services Specialist

    she/her

  • Marion Araque

    Project Delivery & Integration Senior Manager

    she/her

  • Nia Mullen

    Fund Operations Manager

    she/her

  • Victor Pacheco

    Performance Analytics & Reporting Manager

    he/him

  • Zakiya Mackey

    Director of Business Services

    she/her

Advisory Board

  • Alberto Torrico

    Government Affairs - Government Relations - Lobbyist

  • Jan Owen

    Board Member - Senior Advisor - Government Affairs

  • Steve Carnevale

    Executive Chairman - Managing Partner

  • Thurman White

    Board Member - Advisor - Angel Investor - Former CEO an Board member

Join Us

As champions of diversity and equity, we actively promote and support Black and Latino entrepreneurs in their journey to success. Join forces with the ESO team and pursue a career path of growth, resilience, and community impact.