San Antonio Venture Scene: Ileana Gonzalez Shares Her Early Leadership Roles Including Student Body President, Ms. UTSA, and Amplifying Mayoral Campaigns
To help celebrate the new professional achievement of Ileana Gonzalez becoming the new Tech Bloc CEO & SomosVC IIE Project Manager, we interviewed her on her early career experience in venture capital. She tells us about her time spent at Capital Factory and Techstars, while also showcasing a unique path in leadership including her previous reign as a student body president and working in mayoral campaigns. Ileana shares her favorite memories from those experiences and concludes with an inspirational personal note.
To go back earlier in your journey, you were also a leader when you were at University of San Antonio, as Ms. UTSA as well as becoming Student Body President. What was that like and how might those experiences have helped you in your career outside of university?
These positions were outward-facing roles for which I was elected by the student body, a responsibility I considered both a great honor and a significant duty. It was so fun to grow within the positions and learn how to conduct myself in different environments. Serving in these capacities provided me with invaluable insights into the workings of the world beyond the academic environment, effectively acting as a bridge into my professional career. Through these experiences, I honed my skills in networking and cultivating meaningful connections. Many of these connections have evolved into mentorships, support systems, and lasting friendships, contributing immensely to my personal and professional growth.
Ileana Gonzalez’s graduation as first student to graduate from on stage with the university president
You’ve also spent time at Capital Factory and Techstars. What were your responsibilities like there? Feel free to share your best memories and milestones.
I worked as a venture associate at both organizations, where my role involved sourcing deals, conducting due diligence, and presenting investment opportunities to the partners. Additionally, at Techstars, I took on the responsibility of linking our portfolio companies with potential investors based on industry, stage, and compatibility. One of the highlights of the job was traveling across the U.S., exploring new tech and startup ecosystems. It was fulfilling to expand our network to startups that might not have had access otherwise. Connecting with founders in person, learning firsthand about startup operations and scaling, remains some of my favorite memories from those experiences.
Tell us about the work you did on mayoral campaigns and in city capacities. What did you like best about that and is there anything you take with you to help you in your new role leading the tech community?
From my freshman year in college, I actively participated in Student Government, collaborating closely with the local councilman who oversaw our district. This collaboration forged a strong professional relationship, and we supported each other in various initiatives. Eventually, I became involved in his mayoral campaign, where I gained valuable insights into campaign dynamics, strategies, operational systems for voter engagement, block walking, and marketing. The knowledge and skills acquired during those years now play a pivotal role in my work at Tech Bloc, where we uniquely focus on advancing the city's tech ecosystem through advocacy as the sole nonprofit dedicated to this cause.
Mayor Ron Nirenberg Election Celebration Party With Ileana Gonzalez
You’ve also been a founder of a company. What was your idea and what were some outcomes you’d like to share?
I pursued Entrepreneurship as my major in college. In my senior year, I collaborated with fellow business students and engineers to develop a noninvasive infrared vein finder. Our efforts were rewarded when we won the $100K Pitch competition, and we continued to present at various pitch competitions. Securing an NSF grant for customer validation was another milestone, although, post-graduation, the project faced challenges as we all transitioned into full-time jobs. Currently, the intellectual property remains with the Department of Commercialization.
The $100K Pitch Competition
Tell us about San Antonio. What is it like currently in terms of the business community and quality of life, as well as what would you like to see it move toward in the future?
San Antonio is a vibrant city with a diverse business community and a rich quality of life. However, for the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's recommended to check the latest sources or local reports.
In terms of the business community, San Antonio has a diverse economic landscape, with sectors such as healthcare, military, technology, and tourism playing significant roles. The city has been fostering an environment conducive to entrepreneurship and innovation, with initiatives like Tech Bloc focusing on advancing the local tech ecosystem.
Quality of life in San Antonio is often characterized by its cultural richness, affordability, and diverse recreational opportunities. The city is known for its historic sites, cultural events, and a strong sense of community. The River Walk, historic missions, and a variety of festivals contribute to the unique lifestyle the city offers.
Looking toward the future, many residents and leaders in San Antonio express a desire for continued economic growth, increased investment in education and infrastructure, and the development of a more robust technology sector. Sustainable urban development, improved public transportation, and initiatives supporting small businesses are often discussed as key aspects to enhance the city's overall trajectory.
Ileana Gonzalez being crowned Ms. UTSA
When startups and investors visit San Antonio, what are some top things to do, places to eat that you love, etc, and what makes those activities fun to you?
San Antonio boasts a diverse array of attractions catering to startups, investors, and visitors alike! While our historic sites and the iconic River Walk draw the attention of out-of-town guests, my personal favorites in the city include its outdoor activities, restaurants, and bars. As an owner of two vizslas, I particularly enjoy exploring the city's parks with them – a delightful activity that aligns perfectly with the trend of 'walk and talks.' San Antonio is home to a plethora of fantastic parks, and some of my personal favorites include:
Brackenridge Park: A large park featuring walking trails, a golf course, and the San Antonio Zoo.
McAllister Park: Known for its extensive trail system, sports facilities, and natural areas.
Government Canyon State Natural Area: Located just outside San Antonio, it offers hiking trails and the opportunity to see dinosaur tracks.
Eisenhower Park: A scenic park with trails and open spaces for recreation.
Phil Hardberger Park: A large urban park with trails, playgrounds, and educational programs.
Ileana Gonzalez was crowned Ms. UTSA at the University of San Antonio’s Homecoming
What do you think are the opportunities for Texas’ future that you look forward to, and how will or how might San Antonio fit into that?
We acknowledge Texas’ robust economy, ranking among the strongest globally. San Antonio, nestled within this powerhouse, serves as a welcoming hub and a nurturing environment for LATAM startups and tech founders seeking to expand into the US market or secure investments from US VCs. Our vision is to position San Antonio as the city in Texas that uniquely grasps the cultural nuances of LATAM better than any other in the US – that is our magic. The development of our tech ecosystem will be guided by this distinctive understanding as we align ourselves with the dynamic landscape unfolding in other Texas cities.
You’ve already had a great early career trajectory, please share with us any accomplishments you’re most proud of.
The achievements that bring me the greatest sense of pride are predominantly personal rather than professional, to be honest. As a first-generation immigrant, the journey of learning, adapting, growing, and thriving in a new country and culture is a source of daily reflection for me. If I could navigate and succeed in such a significant life transition, I am confident in my ability to achieve the goals I have set for Tech Bloc and future ventures. This personal triumph fuels my determination and belief in what lies ahead.
Ileana Gonzalez closing out UTSA's Capital Campaign of $305 million fundraised