By Kiara Webb, Senior Business Correspondent
LAREDO, TX — May 20, 2025 — A new initiative to uplift women in business officially kicked off this week as MileOne, in partnership with Texas A&M International University (TAMIU), launched the Women Entrepreneurs Rock series during the 2025 LEDC Economic Development Week.
Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), PNC Bank, and TAMIU, the six-month program is designed to address the specific challenges faced by women entrepreneurs, from accessing capital to competing for federal contracts.
Series Launches with Awards and Industry Voices
Held on TAMIU’s campus, the inaugural event drew local leaders, small business owners, and rising innovators from across the region. The day featured inspiring keynote speeches, dynamic panel discussions, and a special awards presentation spotlighting standout entrepreneurs.
Among the honorees:
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Pablo Guzman, celebrated as Rising Innovator of the Year, recognized for breakthrough efforts in tech-based solutions.
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Richard Rivera, awarded Small Business of the Year, for his role in expanding local commerce and community impact.
“This is just the beginning of a larger movement,” said Cesar Hernandez, Chief Operating Officer of MileOne. “We are shifting from being member-focused to community-focused, opening doors for anyone looking to grow, learn, and succeed.”
Empowering Women Entrepreneurs
The Women Entrepreneurs Rock initiative targets key obstacles that women in business often face, including:
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Limited access to startup and growth capital.
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Underrepresentation in government contracts.
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Fewer mentorship and leadership development opportunities.
With tailored workshops, expert panels, and mentorship sessions, the program aims to close these gaps and create pathways to success for women-led startups and small businesses.
“It’s about creating an ecosystem where women can thrive,” said Maria Torres, a local entrepreneur and participant. “I’m excited to be part of something that could reshape our entire business landscape.”
A Strategic Shift Toward Inclusion
The launch underscores MileOne’s evolution in mission—from primarily servicing members to reaching broader community segments. This new community-focused model encourages inclusion, knowledge-sharing, and partnership-building.
Key Program Features:
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Monthly Workshops on business planning, digital marketing, and financial literacy.
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Mentorship Circles pairing aspiring entrepreneurs with established business leaders.
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Access to Capital Panels featuring bankers, grant advisors, and SBA officials.
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Networking Mixers to forge partnerships and peer support groups.
“It’s clear that women are driving much of the small business growth in the U.S.,” said Linda Martinez, SBA regional coordinator. “Programs like this are critical to sustaining that momentum.”
Why It Matters: National and Local Context
According to the National Women’s Business Council, women-owned businesses represent 42% of all U.S. businesses and employ over 9 million people. However, only 2% of venture capital funding currently goes to women-founded companies.
In border cities like Laredo, where cultural diversity and cross-border commerce offer unique opportunities, initiatives like Women Entrepreneurs Rock could be transformative.
“Our region is rich with talent and ambition,” said Dr. Marcela Uribe, Director of TAMIU’s Center for the Study of Western Hemispheric Trade. “This program aligns with our mission to educate and empower future leaders.”
Looking Ahead: Sustainability and Growth
The series will run through November 2025, concluding with a community showcase and business pitch competition. Organizers hope this pilot can become a model for other cities aiming to nurture inclusive economic ecosystems.
Cesar Hernandez hinted that similar programs may be rolled out in neighboring counties in 2026.
“This isn’t just about one city or event—it’s about building a new norm for how we support all entrepreneurs,” he emphasized.