129. Inside Launch SA — San Antonio’s One-Stop Resource for Small Business

This week on bigcitysmalltown, we examine the changing landscape of small business support in San Antonio through the lens of Launch SA—a city-backed resource center for entrepreneurs and business owners. Now operating under a new partnership with Geekdom and led by director Matthew Espinoza, Launch SA is navigating a critical moment of transition and growth nearly a decade after its inception.Guest host Cory Ames sits down with Espinoza to discuss how Launch SA is responding to post-pandemic challenges, the evolving needs of local founders, and what the organization’s recent relaunch means for San Antonio’s broader business ecosystem.They cover:• How Launch SA’s mission and services have shifted in partnership with Geekdom and the City of San Antonio• The most common challenges facing San Antonio’s small business owners, including access to capital, uncertainty, and adapting to new technologies• The role of programming, events, and partnerships in building a sustainable support network for entrepreneurs• What recent economic growth signals mean for independently owned businesses—and where potential gaps remain• How community members can engage with and support the city’s local businessesFor listeners tuned in to San Antonio’s economic development, this episode offers a grounded look at the realities and opportunities facing the city’s small businesses, and how local support organizations are working to keep pace.RECOMMENDED NEXT LISTEN:▶️ #126. Mayor Ron Nirenberg on 8 Years of Progress—and What Comes Next for San Antonio – Go behind the scenes of San Antonio’s transformation as Bob Rivard sits down with Mayor Ron Nirenberg to reflect on his legacy, major city initiatives, and the challenges ahead. This conversation offers candid insights into civic leadership, housing, workforce development, and the future of the city as a new administration takes the reins.-- -- CONNECT📸 Connect on Instagram🔗 Join us on LinkedIn🎥 Subscribe on YouTubeSPONSORS🙌 Support the show & see our sponsorsTHANK YOU⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts⭐ Rate us on Spotify