We serve the community to help
it thrive.
Our Mission
At Emerge and Rise™, we empower underserved entrepreneurs and small businesses with innovative education, essential resources, and supportive networks. Partnering with corporations and community leaders, we transform lives by fostering collaboration, promoting mental well-being, and building generational wealth through cutting-edge financial and digital literacy.
Our Vision
Our vision is to transform our community into a dynamic, inclusive economy where opportunity thrives, poverty recedes, and well-being soars. By fostering small business ownership and entrepreneurial innovation, we address the Social Determinants of Health to unlock economic potential in underserved communities. We aim to create a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives economic vitality and elevates life satisfaction, generating lasting positive impacts for our community.
Our Strategic Growth and Impact Goals 2025-2028
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Strategic Launch of Brick-and-Mortar Businesses:
We are committed to initiating at least 50 new brick-and-mortar commercial spaces within the next three years. This effort is not just about business openings; it's about activating community spaces that foster engagement and drive economic vitality. We estimate these new establishments could generate upwards of $5 million in annual revenue, bolstering the local economy and creating vibrant centers for community life.
HOW:
Securing Prime Locations: Collaborating with real estate experts and community leaders to identify and develop prime locations for new businesses.
Providing Essential Resources: Offering or partnering access to startup funding, finding grants, and providing low—or zero-interest loans to entrepreneurs.
Community Engagement: Organizing grand opening events and community activities to drive awareness and foot traffic.
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Catalyzing Job Creation:
Our mission to drive inclusive economic growth includes empowering our graduates to launch and expand businesses that will generate over 300 new jobs within the local community. This approach aims to uplift families from poverty, foster economic independence, and inject an estimated $9 million to $16 million in salaries into San Antonio's economy. By equipping entrepreneurs with the skills and resources to succeed, we're not just creating jobs—we're building a foundation for a resilient and economically independent community.
HOW:
Offering Comprehensive Training: Providing extensive training programs on business planning, financial management, and digital literacy.
Connecting with Mentors: Establishing mentorship networks to guide new and existing business owners.
Corporate Training Programs: Implementing corporate training programs to equip leaders with the skills to create job opportunities within their businesses.
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Support for Business Growth and Expansion:
Recognizing the critical need for scalability in achieving long-term success, we are dedicated to assisting at least 100 local businesses in their growth or expansion phases. By equipping entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and knowledge to excel, we aim to facilitate a conservatively estimated increase in their combined revenues by 10%, potentially adding an additional $2 million to $5 million to San Antonio's economy.
HOW:
Conducting Scaling Workshops: Offering specialized workshops focused on scaling operations and expanding market reach.
Providing Access to Capital: Partnering with financial institutions and investors to secure higher funding for business growth.
Establishing Resource Labs via Partnerships: Creating hubs where entrepreneurs can access tools, information, and support for financial literacy, digital literacy, and mental health wellbeing.
Our Staff
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Lina Rugova
PRESIDENT & CEO
Lina Rugova is dedicated to uplifting local entrepreneurs, providing them with the tools to succeed through Emerge and Rise. She focuses on innovating traditional business models and creating a supportive community where every entrepreneur, regardless of their background, can thrive.
With over 15 years of experience in management consulting, strategic planning, and digital marketing, Lina leverages her extensive knowledge to help service-based small businesses achieve their professional and personal goals. She specializes in restructuring internal processes, fostering innovation, and building growth-oriented partnerships.
Lina holds a Bachelor's Degree in Business and a Master's Degree in Corporate Innovation and Entrepreneurship from Pennsylvania State University, and currently pursuing DBA in Entrepreneurship from Walden University. Her certifications include AI, Green Belt in Lean Six Sigma, Corporate Risk Management, Crisis Management, Continuous Improvement, and Digital Marketing.
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Jaime Rubio
VICE PRESIDENT
Jaime is a community champion, family man, and business dynamo. Rooted in San Antonio, Jaime's heart beats in sync with the local rhythm. Schooled at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a Bachelor's in Business Administration and enriched with a Masters of Divinity from Nazarene Theological Seminary, Jaime perfectly marries business prowess with community spirit.
In the competitive business landscape, Jaime has emerged as a beacon of dedication and hard work. His talents range from sales to marketing, emphasizing fostering genuine connections. But his accolades and accomplishments tell just part of the story.
Above all, Jaime is known for his unwavering commitment to family and community. Whether mentoring the next generation of local entrepreneurs or enjoying quality moments with his family, Jaime believes in the power of relationships and community-building. His addition to the Emerge and Rise board promises business acumen and a heart and soul deeply tied to our shared mission.
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Andrew Rodriguez
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Andrew is an enthusiastic Marketing Assistant intern at Emerge and Rise, joining us from the Alamo Colleges District.
Currently pursuing a Business Administration degree at Northeast Lakeview College, he balances his studies with real-world experience, aiming to become an entrepreneur.
His journey includes roles at the Doubletree by Hilton – Downtown San Antonio, where he was recognized for his exemplary service and .ow with Aiden Hotel A multi-skilled individual, Andrew holds certifications in Microsoft Word and Excel and is fluent in Spanish. Andrew is behind all of our social media presence.
His dedication to community service and his passion for business principles make him an invaluable addition to our team.
Our Board of Directors
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![Sarah Irwin Emerge and Rise Board Member]()
Sarah Irwin, Esq.
Board Member
Clausewitz Reyes
Business Attorney
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![Maggie Buentello Emerge and Rise Board Member]()
Maggie Buentello, Esq.
Board Member
Mazurek, Belden & Burke, P.C.
Managing Associate Attorney
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![Amanda Onochie Emerge and Rise Board Member]()
Amanda Onochie
Board Member
AB Community Development Solutions LLC
NGO Consultant
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![Javier Rubio Emerge and Rise Board Member]()
Javier Rubio
Board Member
Monocle
Video & Audio Producer
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![Malissa Runty Emerge and Rise]()
Malissa Runty
Board Member
H-E-B
Manager, Digital Emerging Technology and Innovation
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Simon Castillo
Board Member
CPS Energy
Business Development Executive
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OPEN BOARD POSITION
Board Member & Treasurer
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OPEN BOARD POSITION
Board Member & Secretary
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OPEN BOARD POSITION
Board Member
Board Advisors
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Buddie Hasty
INVESTOR (FILM INDUSTRY)
Hayze Entertainment Group
An expert in media, sales, and startup financing, guides film and entertainment professionals in securing project financing. As owner of Hayze Entertainment Group, he excels in film production and media sales, leveraging his vast experience in raising capital for startups. His previous leadership roles at USA Today’s Digital Media Division and Suddenlink Communications highlight his proficiency in digital sales strategies and innovative solutions in the media sector.
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Christine Colburn
CO-FOUNDER & CEO
Software Company
Her career spans several dynamic sectors, starting in a Digital Marketing agency before moving to a Medical SaaS company. She then transitioned to an Engineering firm focused on robotic LiDAR scanning and SLAM algorithms within the AEC industry. Her path led her to a leadership role at a VC firm, launching operations at the Boeing Center at TechPort on the Port San Antonio campus for Capital Factory and driving Defense Innovation. Currently, as CEO of a software development company in San Antonio, she continues to contribute to the community's growth, a mission close to her heart, as her eldest son serves as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Air Force.
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Abdul Q. Mahmood
ENTERPRISE AND BUSINESS ARCHITECT
Boeing
Leading organizations to devise business and technology strategies, innovative products and services, execute digital transformation, business, design enterprise, cloud and mobile architecture, and security and compliance. He is proficient in utilizing the latest methods and technologies, i.e., data science, AI, and ML, for predictive modeling and mentoring organizations to deliver optimal performance.
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Emmanuel Light, Jr.
GLOBAL PRODUCT MANAGEMENT AND SOFTWARE ENGINEER
Emmanuel Light Consulting
As a Product Manager for leading companies, he has spearheaded the full product development lifecycle, including GTM strategy, QA testing, and launching features for various clients. His strategic planning and collaboration have launched products generating over $10M. With a strong background in product marketing and an engineering approach to problem-solving, he ensures his teams excel, focusing solely on success.
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Coming Soon
COMING SOON
Coming Soon
Bio is Coming Soon
Interested in joining our staff or board? View open opportunities here.
Our Story
Emerge and Rise: Igniting Opportunity for San Antonio's Entrepreneurs
In San Antonio, a city rich in history, culture, and potential, many underserved entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners struggle to find the resources they need. The dream and passion for entrepreneurship are strong, but access to support is fragmented and insufficient.
Lina Rugova, an immigrant from Kazakhstan and a business consultant from New York, experienced this firsthand. In 2021, as the world was emerging from the pandemic, Lina found herself frustrated by the scattered and limited resources available in San Antonio. Despite the city's vibrant community, there was a noticeable gap in support for small, local businesses such as mom-and-pop shops, artisans, and family-run eateries.
Motivated by her own challenges and recognizing that small businesses are vital to San Antonio's economy, Lina founded Emerge and Rise, Inc.™. This initiative goes beyond being a typical business incubator; it provides a comprehensive support system for those who often feel left behind in the entrepreneurial landscape. Emerge and Rise™ offers resources, mentorship, and guidance to help underserved communities turn their business dreams into reality.
Lina's vision is to create a platform where entrepreneurs from all backgrounds can thrive. Emerge and Rise™ stands as a testament to the power of recognizing community needs, taking decisive action, and believing in the potential of every entrepreneur and small business.
Empower Dreams: Join Us in Building Business Futures
Every donation fuels the journey of aspiring entrepreneurs in our community. Your support enables Emerge and Rise to provide essential resources, mentorship, and training to those who need it most. Together, we can transform potential into success. Invest in a brighter future today—every contribution makes a difference!