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 Manager

    he/him

  • Arrielle Polk

    Administrative Assistant

    she/her

  • Ashley Moreland-Mizzi

    Senior Director

    she/her

  • Daniel Medina

    CICF Portfolio Manager

    he/him

  • Dax Moreno

    Strategic Partnerships

    he/him

  • Esther Santamaria

    Culture & Engagement Specialist

    she/her

  • Kelley Nayo-Jahi

    Engagement Manager

    she/her

  • Lorena Borrayo

    Programs Specialist

    she/her

  • Marion Araque

    Sr. Manager, Integration & Delivery

    she/her

  • Nia Mullen

    CICF Manager

    she/her

  • Sabrina Mutukisna

    Sr Director of Programs

    she/her

  • Victor Pacheco

    Data and Storytelling Manager

    he/him

  • Zakiya Mackey

    Senior Program Manager

    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 Brown entrepreneurs in their journey to success. Join forces with the ESO team and pursue a career path of growth, resilience, and community impact.