Ideas aren’t everything, execution matters greatly, but starting often requires an idea and so we asked folks to think back and tell us the story of how they came up with the idea for their businesses. We’ve highlighted some of our favorite stories below.

Paulo Ortiz | Founder English & Tours

It was back in 2009 while working as an English teacher in a local university in my hometown, Monclova, Mexico. I have always wanted to take my students to tours in the US and the first on e was to the Johnson Space Center in Houston. Most of my students did not have a vistor visa to enter to the US so I wrote letters to the US Consulate in Monterrey in order to facilitate them this important document. Most of the visas were approved by the immigration officers to make possible the field trip in Houston which was a tremendous success and impact not only for the students but also for the university and the community, because everybody knew about the trip as well as the university. Read more>>

Anthony La Touche | Personal Branding Consultant & Renowned British Hat-Restorer

Coming from a fashion marketing background, I never set out to compete with designers in the millinery industry. Instead, I wanted to move the needle. Spending time with hat makers, I noticed a gap—these skilled artisans were masters of their craft but often struggled with marketing and selling their work. This insight revealed an opportunity to make a real impact on the industry. Leveraging my expertise, I pioneered personal branding and digital marketing within the millinery space with my ‘Mr.Hat formula’. This method became the cornerstone of my success and continues to influence the industry, reshaping how hat brands connect with consumers. Read more>>

Saniya Tariq | Makeup Artist

I started my makeup artist business because of my love for artistry and transforming people’s looks. I always enjoyed experimenting with makeup and realized I could help others feel confident for special occasions. Seeing the joy in clients’ faces inspired me to turn my passion into a full-time career. Read more>>