Meet José A. López of The Economic Growth Business Incubator

Today we’d like to introduce you to José A. López.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started my journey as a small business generalist, developing a strong foundation in bookkeeping, financial management, marketing, and community business networks. Early in my career, I worked as a Business Developer for a nonprofit in Puerto Rico, where I had the privilege of helping nearly 200 small businesses launch and grow. That experience gave me insight into the perspectives of many business owners as they start and grow their businesses.

When pursuing my Master’s degree, I was offered the opportunity to relocate to Hangzhou, China, where I served as a Marketing Instructor at a small business school, helping students and the local business community understand how to tell their stories and position their business. I was also offered the opportunity to become the admissions Officer at an international School in Japan. Because of my hard work and dedication, I was given the opportunity to serve as the school’s General Manager. This opportunity expanded my leadership experience and exposed me to global business management and educational systems.

Over more than ten years, these experiences shaped me into a well-rounded small business development professional. Today, as Program Director at the Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) in Austin, I oversee our programs and initiatives, ensuring entrepreneurs receive the training, coaching, and financial guidance they need to thrive. My background has also made me a strong public speaker, able to connect with diverse audiences in conferences and workshops.

My journey has always been centered on one purpose: empowering upcoming and already established business owners. Whether in Puerto Rico, Asia, or Texas, I’ve dedicated my career to helping people turn their ideas into sustainable businesses, and that mission continues to drive me today.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road has definitely not been straight or smooth. I’ve learned that the path to success is full of questions, unexpected turns, and unfinished paths. Over time, I’ve embraced that reality and learned to enjoy every moment I’m given. Mistakes have been some of my greatest teachers; each one has pushed me to grow, reflect, and become a better version of myself for my community and the people I care about.

One of the biggest challenges in my work is the nonstop exposure to new knowledge, trends, and innovative ways of doing things. As a pillar for entrepreneurs and a leader in my organization, I’m expected to think outside the box, adapt quickly, and bring fresh ideas to improve established processes. That level of continuous learning can be demanding, but it’s also what keeps me sharp, creative, and committed to serving others with excellence.

As you know, we’re big fans of The Economic Growth Business Incubator. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) is a non-profit organization that provides training, coaching, and support to aspiring and existing business owners who face barriers to growing a successful business. We thank all our supporters for always being here for us! We frequently work with micro and small business owners, and many of the businesses we work with are still in the design stage, not active yet, or have been in business for less than five years.

Some of the businesses that partner with EGBI may be considered informal, and their owners are ready to transition to a more structured business entity. Typical businesses that partner with EGBI are mom & pop businesses and lifestyle businesses.

What sets EGBI apart is our belief that every business can be profitable, sustainable, and an asset to the community, regardless of its size, background, or starting point. Our values guide our work: inspiration, leadership, trust, cultural diversity, strategy, and deep, caring relationships. These aren’t just words for us; they show up in the way we coach, the way we teach, and the way we walk alongside entrepreneurs who are often navigating the business world for the first time.

We are known for our culturally competent approach and our commitment to meeting people where they are. Many of our clients are bilingual, first-time business owners, or individuals who have never taken a business class before. We take pride in breaking down complex topics like bookkeeping, business planning, marketing, and financial management into practical, relatable steps that empower people to grow with confidence.

What does success mean to you?
I believe success is a deeply personal statement. It will depend on the person who’s defining it. For some, success is overcoming a barrier they never thought they could move past. For others, it’s finally taking the first step on a lifelong commitment they’ve been afraid to start.

To me, success isn’t a single moment or a specific milestone. It’s the small, continuous pushes in “the right direction”. It’s all about the growth we make along the way. It’s choosing to keep moving forward, even when the path is hard. It’s about getting hit and still move forward. It’s not about perfection or comparison; it’s about becoming a better version of yourself and helping others along the way.

Pricing:

• Individual Coaching (No cost to participants)
• Training – Usually $40 dollars for Series
• Upcoming Series: Build Your Business Plan in Spanish and English ($40 for 8 classes)
• Upcoming Series: Bookkeeping Series in English ($40 for 8 classes)
• Othes Spring Series may Include: Manage your Business and Marketing Series

EGBI January 2026 Classes

Contact Info:

• Website: https://egbi.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/egbiofaustin/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EGBIofAustin/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josely-lopez/

Image Credits
Foto from Kitty Bird from Kitty Bird Photo https://www.kittybirdphoto.com/ kitty@kittybirdphoto.com

Foto from Javier Carrera from JC Photography, LLC https://www.javiercarrerab.com/ javiercarrera@outlook.com