Maestro Center 2024 Annual Report

Letter from Executive Director

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As I reflect on my second year leading the Maestro Entrepreneur Center, I am filled with gratitude and pride. 2024 was a year of growth and transformative initiatives, made possible by our dedicated team, supportive community, and the resilience of small business owners.

We took our services directly to the streets, assisting businesses like Don Roman in Market Square with resources, grant applications, and hands-on support. Recognizing ongoing challenges in accessing capital, we focused on grant and loan assistance to help entrepreneurs secure critical funding.

Looking ahead, we are adapting to San Antonio’s shifting small business landscape by expanding our reach, leveraging technology for education, strengthening financial partnerships, fostering mentorship, and enhancing data collection to measure our impact.

The Maestro Entrepreneur Center’s success is a collective effort, and your support fuels our mission. Thank you for being part of this journey—we look forward to another year of impact and innovation.

With gratitude,
Geremy Landin
Executive Director, Maestro Entrepreneur Center

Letter from Board Chair

Dear Friends and Supporters,

As Board Chairwoman of the Maestro Entrepreneur Center, I am honored to witness the dedication and impact of this incredible organization. This past year has been transformative, driven by a passionate team, key partnerships, and new opportunities to serve small businesses in San Antonio.

Led by Executive Director Geremy Landin, our team continues to empower entrepreneurs through technical assistance, access to capital, and capacity-building programs. Collaboration remains essential, and we are proud to have joined UnidosUS, NALCAB, and LISC San Antonio, strengthening our ability to bring national resources and funding to the businesses we support.

Our relationships with financial institutions, corporate sponsors, and community organizations continue to grow, helping us expand our reach and enhance our programs. With a strong team, committed board, and unwavering partner support, we are confident in an even brighter future for small businesses.

Thank you for believing in our mission. Your support makes a lasting impact, and together, we will continue to uplift San Antonio’s entrepreneurial community.

With gratitude,
Janell Davila

Board Chairwoman, Maestro Entrepreneur Center | Vice President | Business Banking | Frost – Banking, Investments, Insurance

The Maestro Entrepreneur Center is a nonprofit business resource hub dedicated to empowering small business owners through tailored education, mentorship, and access to capital. Our mission is to provide the tools, knowledge, and network necessary for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses, create jobs, and strengthen the economic landscape of San Antonio and beyond.

In 2024, Maestro saw record-breaking engagement across our key programs, reflecting our commitment to fostering sustainable business growth.

Construction & Trades Bootcamp: 

This year, we witnessed record registrations for our intensive bootcamp designed to equip small businesses in the construction and trades industries with essential skills in business management, contract navigation, and access to capital. This program continues to be a critical resource for contractors and trade professionals looking to scale their businesses.

Accelerate Your Venture Cohort:

Designed for businesses generating under $1 million in revenue, this hands-on program provided 30 entrepreneurs (two 15-member cohorts) with the foundational tools to streamline operations, improve financial literacy, and develop strategies for sustainable growth.

2nd stage cohort classroom

Accelerate Your Growth Cohort:

Tailored for businesses generating over $1 million in revenue, this program also served 30 entrepreneurs across two 15-member cohorts, focusing on high-level scaling strategies, leadership development, and investment readiness to help participants expand their market reach and long-term profitability.

At Maestro, we believe that small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and our programs are designed to ensure that entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey have access to the mentorship, funding opportunities, and technical assistance they need to thrive.

Through strong community partnerships, financial support, and national affiliations with organizations like UnidosUS, NALCAB, and LISC San Antonio, Maestro continues to be a catalyst for small business success.

As we move into the future, we remain committed to expanding our reach, enhancing our programming, and driving economic opportunity for all.

Year in Review (Key Highlights)
2024 Year in Review
As we reflect on 2024, the Maestro Entrepreneur Center has seen incredible growth, strengthened partnerships, and continued its commitment to empowering small businesses in San Antonio. Under the leadership of Executive Director Geremy Landin, our organization has launched new initiatives, secured impactful sponsorships, and hosted successful events that have furthered our mission.
Leadership and Organizational Growth
Geremy Landin assumed the role of Executive Director at the Maestro Entrepreneur Center on July 5, 2023. With his extensive background in city and county government, nonprofit leadership, and business development, he has brought renewed energy to our programs and initiatives. Over the past year and a half, Geremy has worked to expand opportunities for small businesses, foster valuable partnerships, and enhance the center’s offerings to better serve San Antonio’s entrepreneurial community.
Buy Local Grow SA Launch
In 2024, we also launched a brand-new website, designed by Herospace, to enhance our digital presence. Additionally, the "Buy Local Grow SA" website was introduced as a free resource to connect local businesses, encouraging San Antonio to support small and growing enterprises.
Bank on Your Business: Small Business Loan Fair
This event connected small business owners with local banks to explore lending opportunities and apply for loans. Attendees met with banking representatives, learned about financing options, and took advantage of on-the-spot loan applications.
Salsa Night Networking Event
In collaboration with Salsa On2 School, this event combined business networking with an introductory salsa lesson. Sponsored by 4A Electrical Services, LLC, attendees enjoyed a fun and engaging evening with light food and drinks.
Giving Tuesday Phonathon Lunch
In collaboration with Salsa On2 School, this event combined business networking with an introductory salsa lesson. Sponsored by 4A Electrical Services, LLC, attendees enjoyed a fun and engaging evening with light food and drinks.
Small Business Champions Luncheon
This event celebrated outstanding small businesses and entrepreneurs in the San Antonio community. The luncheon featured keynote speaker David Rogers, CEO of the H.E. Butt Foundation, and honored individuals and organizations in various award categories, including Social Responsibility, Community Champion, Innovative Spirit, Business Accelerator, and Community Steward.
October 2024
November 2024
December 2024
December 2024
Financial Summary

The Maestro Leadership Foundation experienced significant financial growth in 2024, demonstrating both strong revenue generation and prudent fiscal management. Our financial performance highlights an increase in revenue and net operating revenue, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and impact-driven operations.

Statement of Activity Highlights (January – December 2024)
Total Revenue (+27.85% from 2023)
$ 0
Gross Profit (after minimal cost of goods sold)
$ 0
Total Expenditures
$ 0
Net Operating Revenue (+42.16% from 2023)
$ 0
Net Revenue (+41.65% from 2023)
$ 0
Activity Highlights
Statement of Financial Position (as of December 31, 2024)
Total Current Assets
$ 0
Total Fixed Assets
$ 0
Total Assets
$ 0
Total Liabilities
$ 0
Total Equity
$ 0

These financial results highlight the strength of our asset base and our responsible management of liabilities. With a strong financial position, we are well-equipped to continue investing in programs that empower small businesses and drive meaningful community impact.

Cohort Impact & Success Stories

In 2024, the Maestro Entrepreneur Center continued its mission of fostering business growth, economic development, and entrepreneurial success. Through our targeted programs, we have supported business owners in scaling their operations, increasing revenue, securing funding, and expanding their workforce. Below are key insights and outcomes from participants who provided complete data sets.

Program Participation & Growth

  • Over 60 businesses participated in our 2024 cohorts, reflecting the strong demand for our business development programs.
  • 12 businesses provided complete before-and-after data on their business growth.
  • These businesses represent a variety of industries, reinforcing the impact of our tailored support programs.

Job Creation & Economic Impact

  • Total Jobs Created: 16 new jobs were added as a direct result of our programs.
  • Robinson General Contractors increased its workforce from 9 to 10 employees after securing new contracts.
  • AV Calibrations, LLC maintained a stable workforce while improving operational efficiency and financial planning.
  • Catherine (Raemie) Jones – Commercial Laundry and Events expanded its staff from 30 to 36 employees, allowing for greater service capacity and operational improvements.

Revenue Growth & Financial Stability

  • Average Revenue Growth per Business: +$155,000
  • Joseph Lukowski – Laredo Technical Solutions reported a revenue increase from $6 million to $6.5 million after participating in our program.
  • Kristian Salinas – Let’s Go Texas experienced revenue growth from $380,000 to $450,000 and expanded business partnerships.
  • Krystal Cross – A Chicago Bite grew its revenue from $240,000 to $250,000 through increased client engagement and strategic marketing.

Financial Assistance & Grants

  • 5 businesses secured grants, enabling them to invest in business growth and sustainability.
  • Tiffany Edwards – T.C. Fitness LLC received the 2024 Grow Now! Financial Equity Fund Grant to support business expansion.
  • Teresa Garcia – Food Safety Direct obtained multiple financial assistance programs, including PPP Loans and City small business grants to sustain business operations.
  • Kristian Salinas – Let’s Go Texas leveraged new financial relationships to establish a line of credit and expand funding sources.

Property Ownership & Long-Term Stability

  • 3 businesses transitioned from leasing to owning their property, ensuring long-term stability.
  • Phillip Capestany – Artisan Pastries and Breads continued business expansion while planning for certification acquisitions.
Projected Impact on Former Cohorts Based on 2024 Trends

While only 12 businesses provided complete data in 2024, we can use these trends as a baseline to estimate the broader impact across all program participants.

If the same revenue growth trends apply, businesses from previous cohorts could have experienced a $155,000 average revenue increase over time.

If the job creation rates held, our over 60 participants in 2024 could have collectively created 80+ new jobs across various industries.

Financial assistance trends suggest that at least 25% of businesses in past cohorts may have secured grants or funding sources to support expansion efforts.

Empowering Entrepreneurs Through Knowledge & Community

In 2024, the Maestro Entrepreneur Center provided training and resources to a growing community of small business owners. While participation exceeded these numbers, 250 entrepreneurs completed surveys, offering valuable insights into the impact of our programs and areas for future growth.

Overall Satisfaction:

4.93/5

Instructor Knowledge:

4.95/5

Business Applicability:

4.85/5

Recommendation Rate

98% would recommend our programs

Top-Rated Workshops

Marketing & Selling for Success

4.97/5

Top-Rated Workshops
Leadership for Entrepreneurs

4.95/5

Top-Rated Workshops
Being Bankable to Grow Your Business

4.92/5

“The ‘Bankable’ session was a game-changer. It completely reshaped my approach to financial management and helped me build stronger banking relationships. I walked away with clear, actionable steps to grow my business.”
Jacquelin Castille
Small Business Owner
“I’ve attended many business workshops before, but none have provided the level of support and community that Maestro offers. It’s more than education—it’s a network dedicated to small business success.”
Tiffany Edwards
Entrepreneur
“The leadership class was by far my favorite. The stories, lessons, and inspiration from the speakers helped me see leadership in a new light. I left feeling empowered and ready to lead with confidence.”
Angelica Elizabeth Reyna
Business Owner
“The Marketing & Selling session gave me actionable strategies I could apply immediately. I appreciated the live examples and hands-on approach—it made the learning experience even more impactful.”
Krystal Cross
Entrepreneur
“The interactive elements in the Business Development session helped me understand my own business in ways I hadn’t before. I’d love to see more group exercises and case studies included in future sessions.”
Kristian Gtz. Salinas
Small Business Owner

2024 Cohort Impact & Success Stories

Empowering Entrepreneurs for Sustainable Growth

In 2024, the Maestro Entrepreneur Center continued its mission of fostering business growth, economic development, and entrepreneurial success. Through our targeted programs, we have supported business owners in scaling their operations, increasing revenue, securing funding, and expanding their workforce. Below are key insights and outcomes from participants who provided complete data sets.

Program Participation & Growth

  • Over 60 businesses participated in our 2024 cohorts, reflecting the strong demand for our business development programs.
  • 12 businesses provided complete before-and-after data on their business growth.
  • These businesses represent a variety of industries, reinforcing the impact of our tailored support programs.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Our Cohorts

If current trends persist, our projections are as follows:

  • Approximately 50 to 60 percent of cohort businesses will double their staff by 2026.
  • Around 25 to 30 percent of alumni could exceed $1 million in annual revenue by 2027.
  • About 40 to 50 percent of businesses may own their commercial space by 2028.
  • Over 75 percent of cohort alumni are projected to remain in operation by 2030.

By continuing to monitor these outcomes and expanding our outreach efforts, Maestro Entrepreneur Center remains dedicated to supporting small business growth, ensuring sustainable success, and refining our programs based on comprehensive and ongoing feedback.

Job Creation & Economic Impact

  • Total Jobs Created: 16 new jobs were added as a direct result of our programs.

Revenue Growth & Financial Stability

  • Average Revenue Growth per Business: +$155,000

Financial Assistance & Grants

  • 5 businesses secured grants, enabling them to invest in business growth and sustainability.

Maestro Entrepreneur Center: Delivering Financial & Technical Support to Small Businesses

At the Maestro Entrepreneur Center, we are dedicated to ensuring that small businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits in San Antonio have access to the funding, technical assistance, and strategic support they need to grow. Through our efforts, we have helped businesses secure grants, loans, workforce development funding, and digital services to enhance their sustainability, financial stability, and operational success.

in sustainability grants secured
$ 0 +
in loans and microloans secured
$ 0
in Ready to Work grants for workforce development
$ 0
in website & digital presence services provided
$ 0
Small Business Construction Support Grants
$ 0
$1.7 Million in small business grants dispersed to Maestro clients.

We also extend our deepest gratitude to the volunteers, mentors, and community partners who dedicate their time and expertise to supporting small businesses. Your contributions make a meaningful difference in the lives of entrepreneurs and the broader San Antonio business community.

Together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive future for local businesses. Thank you for being a part of this journey.

Our Partners

Holiday Closure Notice

Maestro Center will be closed from December 23 to January 2. We will reopen on January 3. Happy Holidays!