San Antonio Startup Week 2025 returns for its 10th year with five days of educational panels, hands-on workshops, city-building events, and hyper-local activations designed for entrepreneurs and startups. From October 13 to 17, thousands of innovators, small business owners, and community leaders will gather to celebrate entrepreneurship and growth in the Alamo City.
One of this year’s most anticipated sessions is the South San Antonio Success Stories: Rooted in Growth – Economic and Workforce Development panel, shining a spotlight on Southside entrepreneurs who have built thriving businesses while uplifting their community.
Event Details
? Friday, October 17, 2025
? 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
? Geekdom Event Center
? Free registration: https://bit.ly/saswsouthside25
April Monterrosa to Moderate the Panel
The panel will be moderated by April Monterrosa, award-winning entrepreneur, author, speaker, community advocate, and
publisher of Live From The Southside Magazine. Monterrosa is also the host of The April Monterrosa Show on KLMO 98.9 FM, where she highlights Tejano excellence and Latinos in Country Music. As the moderator, she will guide the discussion on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the unique culture of San Antonio’s South Side.
Meet the Southside Entrepreneurs
Jesus Rendon – The Rendon Entrepreneurial Center
Jesus leads a dynamic startup incubator dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and co-working spaces. The Rendon Entrepreneurial Center is a one-stop hub for business owners ready to launch and grow their ventures.
Marta Alonzo – Sip & Sit with ME Coffee House 
Opened in 2023, Sip & Sit with ME Coffee House offers more than great coffee; it’s a community hub for conversation and connection. Inspired by European café culture, Marta has created a space that encourages slowing down and building relationships.
Ray Garza – On Par Golf & Flamingo Club
Ray, a Harlandale High School graduate and championship golfer, owns On Par Golf and founded Flamingo Club, a nonprofit that helps youth access golf by breaking down financial barriers. His work has expanded golf programs across the Southside while mentoring the next generation.
Melanee Reyna – Cup Stuff Catering 
For over 13 years, Cup Stuff Catering has served South San Antonio with comforting lunch specials and professional catering services. Melanee’s dedication to quality and community has made her business a local favorite.
Why This Panel Matters
The South San Antonio Success Stories panel is more than a discussion; it’s a celebration of the resilience, culture, and community pride that define the Southside. Attendees will hear firsthand how local entrepreneurs overcame obstacles, built sustainable businesses, and continue to give back.
Audience members will also have the opportunity to engage directly with the panelists during a Q&A session, making this an inspiring and interactive experience.
Don’t Miss It
Join us at San Antonio Startup Week for the South San Antonio Success Stories panel, moderated by April Monterrosa. Be part of the conversation that highlights the power of community-driven entrepreneurship and discover how Southside business owners are shaping the future of San Antonio.
Register today for this free session: https://bit.ly/saswsouthside25
Image courtesy of San Antonio Startup Week 2025
