VentureLab San Antonio Hub
Founded over a decade ago, VentureLab’s journey began in San Antonio. This city is a cornerstone of entrepreneurial spirit, a perfect match for our mission. As we continue to grow and deepen our commitment to San Antonio, we celebrate our partners, educators, and the entire River City community for their unwavering support of young innovators. Together, we’re making a real difference, helping young minds to harness their potential and turn big dreams into reality! Join us!
Thank you, San Antonio for fostering the next generation of diverse Changemakers and innovators. For more information on partnering with VentureLab, contact us today.
Thank you, San Antonio for fostering the next generation of diverse Changemakers and innovators. For more information on partnering with VentureLab, contact us today.
San Antonio VentureLab Certified Educators
VentureLab Certified Educators are leaders in education who have completed specialized training in entrepreneurial education and are dedicated to sharing their knowledge with others. They are equipped with the tools, resources, and support to create transformative learning experiences for students, fostering critical thinking, adaptability, and other entrepreneurial mindsets.
Empowering Youth Through Career Innovation: Meet Adam Rodriguez, a VentureLab Certified Educator in San Antonio
Empowering young minds to dream big and achieve more, Adam Rodriguez, an 8th-grade math teacher at Agnes Cotton Academy in San Antonio ISD, is making waves in education. As a VentureLab Certified Educator, Adam uses the Career Exploration and Innovation Program to help students discover their passions and turn them into actionable plans for the future. From guiding a student toward an automotive vocational program to inspiring countless others, Adam’s dedication and innovative approach are transforming lives. Learn how he’s shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs and changemakers!
Empowering Youth Through Entrepreneurial Learning: Meet Jeremy, a VentureLab Certified Educator in San Antonio
Meet Jeremy Manginell, a VentureLab Certified Educator and Manager of SA Youth’s SOAR Program in San Antonio, Texas. Jeremy is transforming lives through entrepreneurship education, helping high school students earn diplomas, gain vital problem-solving skills, and plan their futures. With over 20 years in education, his work with unhoused youth and underserved communities is creating lasting change.
San Antonio Advisory Council
San Antonio Advisory Board President
Dr. Cristal Glangchai, Board President & Founder of VentureLab
Dr. Cristal Glangchai is a scientist, entrepreneur, and advocate for empowering young innovators. As Board President (and founder) of VentureLab, she is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of creative leaders and addressing the gender gap in tech and entrepreneurship. With expertise spanning nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and product development, Cristal has been featured in outlets like The Wall Street Journal and TEDx San Antonio for her work in innovation and education.
San Antonio Advisory Council Chair
Mariangela Zavala, Director of Partnerships at Geekdom
Mariangela Zavala is passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and community growth. As Director of Partnerships at Geekdom, she cultivates opportunities for innovation. She serves on the boards of the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and Latinitas, and formerly led the Maestro Entrepreneur Center, supporting emerging entrepreneurs.
San Antonio Advisors-at-Large
Dirk Elmendorf CEO, Witte Museum
Dirk Elmendorf is a seasoned entrepreneur and technology leader with over 20 years of experience building innovative solutions in B2B SaaS. Now serving as CEO of the Witte Museum, Dirk brings a forward-thinking approach to leadership, combining strategic vision with a deep understanding of technology and business. Known for fostering collaboration and innovation, he excels at translating complex ideas into impactful outcomes that drive success.
Graham Weston CEO, Weston Ventures, Inc.
Graham Weston is a visionary entrepreneur and leader dedicated to building businesses and communities where people thrive. As CEO of Weston Ventures, Inc., and co-founder of Rackspace, Graham has a proven track record of turning innovative ideas into impactful ventures. Known for his people-first philosophy, he believes in creating cultures where individuals feel valued and inspired to do their best work every day.
San Antonio Advisory Board
Pablo Calvo
Founder, Calvo Consulting
Pablo Calvo is a multilingual marketing leader with over 27 years of experience in AI, business analytics, and interactive marketing. With a proven track record across startups and Fortune 500 companies, Pablo excels in managing global teams and delivering innovative solutions.
Erica N. Clark, Ed.D, Director of Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Erica is Director of Student Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the Najim Center, with 10+ years in higher education. She holds an M.S. in Organizational Leadership and is pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership with a focus on Innovation. A first-gen college grad, Erica designs sustainable programs and frameworks that promote equity, entrepreneurship, and experiential learning.
Alexandra Frey
Executive Director, 80/20 Foundation
Alexandra Frey is a dedicated leader driving impactful community development initiatives. As Executive Director of the 80/20 Foundation, she oversees strategic grant funding and fosters partnerships with local nonprofits to support education and innovation. With over a decade of experience in corporate and nonprofit leadership, Alexandra is passionate about building strong relationships and empowering communities.
Monica Garcia
Partnerships Manager, San Antonio and South Texas, VentureLab
Monica Garcia is a dynamic connector and entrepreneur with a diverse background in executive consulting, bookkeeping, project management, and small business leadership. As Partnerships Manager for VentureLab in San Antonio and South Texas, Monica leverages her expertise and passion for fostering collaboration. A long-time VentureLab supporter, she combines operational insight with a deep commitment to empowering young innovators.
Rigobetro Gonzalez
Global Sourcing & Mexico Export Division Manager at H-E-B
International Business graduate with cross-border experience in retail, brand, and category management. Proven track record in private label product development and LATAM market strategies across Mexico and the U.S. Skilled in pricing, sourcing, food safety, sustainability, data analysis, and managing diverse retail and innovation projects.
Claudette Alderete Guerrero
Human Resource Executive, Kairoi Residential
Claudette Alderete Guerrero is a dedicated HR leader with over a decade of executive experience in talent acquisition and strategic workforce development. As a Human Resource Executive at Kairoi Residential, she excels at aligning people strategies with business growth. Passionate about giving back, Claudette is committed to fostering talent and creating opportunities that strengthen her community.
Nick Honegger
Director of Marketing and Sales, Geekdom
Nick Honegger is a marketing leader with over 15 years of experience in driving growth through innovative strategies. As Director of Marketing and Sales at Geekdom, he fosters community engagement and business development. Nick also serves as Director of Development at Content on Call, a nonprofit empowering charities and mentoring marginalized youth in content creation.
Alberto Piña
CEO, PorchPass and Braustin Homes
Alberto Piña is dedicated to making affordable homeownership accessible to hardworking Americans. As CEO of PorchPass and Braustin Homes, he drives innovation in factory-built housing by integrating technology to enhance the home-buying experience for families nationwide.
Crystal Royal,
Supplier Diversity Program Manager at H-E-B
An Entrepreneur and experienced administrative professional with over 20 years experience working with high level executives at Fortune 500 companies as well as start up organizations. A self starter, multi-tasker, and software savvy professional with a warm personality who places an emphasis on customer service with internal and external business partners.
San Antonio Funders
Corporate support
VentureLab Partners $5,000+
- Pat Condon
- Graham Weston
- Dirk Elmendorf
- Dr. Cristal Glangchai
- Jason Piña
- Matt Garcia Foundation
Seed Funders $1,000+
- Pablo Calvo
- Dacia Napier
San Antonio Program Partners
