At Fempreneur Poder Hub, we believe that when women of color rise, whole communities rise with them. We exist to close the gap in access to education, funding, and support—empowering entrepreneurs to launch, grow, and thrive.
To empower women of color and allies to build thriving businesses by providing accessible education, resources, and community support that dismantles barriers and nurtures success.
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A world where women of color & allies lead boldly, build generational wealth, and transform their communities through entrepreneurship.
Unlike traditional business incubators, Fempreneur Poder Hub is:
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Fempreneur Poder Hub was founded in 2023 by two mothers, colleagues, and entrepreneurs who understood the unique challenges faced by women of color in business. As the organization gained momentum, leadership shifted—but the mission remained the same. Today, FPH is led by a dedicated founder committed to building a future where women of color have the tools, community, and confidence to thrive in entrepreneurship.Born from lived experience, FPH exists to bridge the gap in access to education, funding, and networks. We know firsthand how systemic barriers like student debt, pay gaps, and the lack of generational wealth make the journey to business ownership harder—but not impossible.Through workshops, one-on-one guidance, and community-centered programming, we’re creating a more just and supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem in Chicago—and beyond.
We proudly serve women & ally entrepreneurs in Chicago and surrounding areas—visionaries, side hustlers, solopreneurs, mompreneurs, and small business owners building with passion, grit, and purpose.Many of our members face systemic barriers:
At FPH, they find the tools, confidence, and community to rise above these challenges—and rewrite the narrative of who gets to succeed in business.
Jennifer Franco is the founder and president for Fempreneur Poder Hub. She is a passionate advocate and educator from the Northside of Chicago. She has overcome the challenges of being a first-generation, low-income Latina mother to make significant strides in the academic sector. With a B.A. in Political Science from NEIU and an M.A. in Women & Gender Studies from Loyola, she's currently pursuing a PhD in Higher Education.
Her commitment to eliminating racial, ethnic, and economic inequalities in education and beyond is deeply rooted in her Guatemalan background and experiences growing up in a single-mother home. As the founder of the Fempreneur Poder Hub, Jennifer empowers women of color entrepreneurs, providing education, resources, and support networks. Her bilingual proficiency and expertise in post-secondary education and institutional engagement position her as a leader in advocating for equitable opportunities and systemic change.
Samantha Royal, 27, is a proud Gringa-Chilanga who graduated with honors in Communication Sciences from the Universidad Tecnológica de México in 2018. During her College years, shespecialized in internal communication, working with renowned companies such as Chevrolet, Abarrotes Casa Vargas, and Mundo Joven Group. From 2015 to mid-2020, she focused on enhancing employee well-being and their journeys on both national and international levels,covering Mexico, Colombia, and Canada.In March 2020, Samantha joined her family's business, Royal Sheet Metal, as the Human Resources Manager, where she skillfully managed employee administration and business development. In 2021, she transitioned to the non-profit sector, taking on the role ofOutreach Coordinator at the Citizens Utility Board of Illinois (CUB), a position she held until 2023.
Samantha's commitment to community service is evident through her participation as an invited representative at Fiesta del Sol 2022 and her role as Environmental Justice Co-Chairat Fiesta del Sol 2023 in Pilsen, Chicago. Since mid-2023, she has been working with CircEsteem, where she coordinates programs that benefit the youth and community of Gage Park, Chicago, through My Chi, My Future. With a strong background in print and digital communication strategies, public relations, and event planning, Samantha brings a wealth of expertise and passion to her work.Proud of her Mexican heritage, she carries the legacy of the great Tenochtitlán with pride.
Rhonda Coleman is a business lawyer, writer, mother, and wife. She is in-house counsel and strategic advisor to Fortune 500 and venture-backed corporations. Through her RCW’s podcast and blog, she illustrates how it is possible for a professional woman with children to have a truly fulfilled life. She shares lessons from her own journey to an accomplished professional, a nurturing mom, and a proud wife in a world that is not built to accommodate achieving this balance. She shares trials, tribulations, triumphs, and best practices with her readers and listeners in a way that is both objective and personal. Currently resides in Chicago, IL.
Jarol is a Chicago native who grew up on the West Side. He’s the Community Engagement Program Manager at mHUB. His passion for community building and organizing has allowed him to develop strong relationships across the education, political, and business/entrepreneurship sectors. His experience working in the non-profit space has allowed him to strengthen key relationships with different stakeholders, community leaders, and legislators. At mHUB, Jarol is helping shape the future for entrepreneurs through the Catalyze Initiative Program, and execution of the Equity Innovation Scholarship Fund & the product development grant. His background in designing grant programs, strategies, and community relationships will surely be something he can contribute to Fempreneur Poder Hub.
Paul Callejas is a Chicago native who grew up in the Little Village neighborhood. He is a 1st generation American from an indigenous family in Guerrero, Mexico. With over nine years of experience in youth development, project management, community fundraising, and community organizing, Paul has collaborated with various non-profit organizations to lead community events and bring resources to underserved neighborhoods. He aspires to help many Chicagoan reach their full potential, become global citizens, and improve their quality of life.
