Ana Luisa Esquivel

Intake Specialist

As the Bilingual Intake Specialist at Ventures, Ana Luisa supports entrepreneurs through effective program coordination for the Business Basics Course in both English and Spanish. She guides clients entering the Ventures programs by helping them navigate the onboarding and application processes while delivering exceptional customer service 

Before joining Ventures, Ana Luisa accumulated diverse experience in customer service and office management—from leading teams in the service industry to managing a nonprofit-owned repair shop. Years of working alongside small business owners and a non-profit organization have fueled her desire to serve the members of the community more directly. Her role at Ventures allows a hands-on approach to continue in this endeavor and make a difference in her community. 

As a first-generation Latina, Ana Luisa has witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by minority communities. This experience has underscored the vital role of entrepreneurship in overcoming these obstacles and fostering economic empowerment. Ana Luisa’s passion for community support includes starting up a Parent-Teacher Student Organization (PTSO) at her children’s elementary school and driving initiatives that uplift diverse voices.

 When not at work, Ana Luisa indulges in mystery and sci-fi novels, catching up on her favorite TV shows, and soaking up the vibes at concerts and music festivals. Her dream business is “Dos Cafecitos” Latin-American inspired coffee shop that would celebrate cultural diversity through art, music, food, and of course, coffee— because nothing says community like a great cup of coffee and a dose of culture!

Ventures Entrepreneurs

Interview with an Entrepreneur – Cristina Almeda knows her value!

Interview with an Entrepreneur – Cristina Almeda knows her value!

When entrepreneurs reach out to Ventures, they often come to us with an idea, determination and the grit it takes to turn their goals into a business reality. While our Business Basics Course is the launch pad to all Ventures, it is clients like Cristina Almeda, owner...

Past Client Paying It Forward 10 Years Later

Past Client Paying It Forward 10 Years Later

As the new Director of Development and Communications, one of my favorite aspects of the role is sharing the work our clients are doing. From concept to launch, it is an honor to witness every client's journey. Although...who better to tell their story than the client...

Ventures Celebrates Women’s History Month

Ventures Celebrates Women’s History Month

We interviewed women entrepreneurs in our small business community for thisyear's Women's History Month. For our first interview, we chatted with Tracy andSkyler Strandness, owners of Barefoot Eco Outfitters, based in Redmond, WA. Tell us a little about yourselves,...