DOWNEY — When former professional boxer and jockey turned entrepreneur Manuel “Manny” Esparza decided  to introduce Chapitos Ceviche delivery and catering services to the city of Downey, in the midst of an economy crippling pandemic, he knew he would need at least two things: a sustainable product that could find a niche in COVID-19 times and insight on how to attract customers and investors.

The product was his Grandma Estelle’s passed-on through generations “special recipe” for ceviche, a staple in Mexico and sought after in Hispanic and Latino communities  worldwide. 

The insight came through his enrollment in the Miracle’s Entrepreneur Program (MEP), a free 3-month course of study, administered by the Entrepreneur Educational Center, Inc. (EECI). leading to the development of a marketable business plan, connection with potential investors and industry mentors. 

“I felt the unique taste of our ceviche would find a place on the taste buds  of my customers and the word of mouth would help build a base to grow on,” Esparza said. “But it was enrolling in the Miracle’s program that gave me the organizational tools and resources I needed to move forward,” he continued.  “I’m thankful EECI was able to respond to COVID-19 the way it did.”

 “Thanks to a great deal of support from our partners in the financial community and others, we were able to offer the free program to 12 individuals and certify a Miracle’s Class of 2020, now on the way to hopefully realizing their potential and enriching the economic base of the communities they serve,” explained EECI Executive Director Barbara J. Stanton.

“As a result of this year’s program, 9 small businesses (DBA’s), and 3 non-profit organizations have been created. These COVID 19 business start-ups will have the history of knowing that during the most tragic pandemic to come to this country, they endured, they planned, and they are convinced that their new businesses will do well,” Stanton said.

For his efforts Esparza, along with fellow classmate Katherine Gregg founder of  the non-profit Adoption and Foster Care Collective, received MEP’s “Best Business Plan” Award of $2.500.00 sponsored by EECI partner Pacific Western Bank.  Another EECI partner, GBC International Bank, awarded two scholarships of $500 to the youngest student in the group, 15-year-old Jada Robinson of “Jada’s LA Jewels” and import/export entrepreneur Bernard “Kofi” Amofa of “Floralingual”.  

“I appreciate this opportunity to create and grow a small business in my community and evolve into a business that can boost its economic base and provide jobs and support for youths and young adults. That is what I learned as part of my Miracle’s experience,” Esparza concluded.

Chapitos Ceviche can be found on Instagram @chapitosceviche. For information on EECI programs  call (323) 757-7506 or visit www.entrepreneureducationalcenter.org.