The Ultimate Return on Investment

Steve Jobs had to sell his Volkswagen. Bill Gates dropped out of college. Jeff Bezos went to his parents for a loan. Though their routes were somewhat unique, the co-founders of Apple, Microsoft and Amazon all found sources of start-up money, got started in a garage and had partners to share the burden. They all did reasonably well for themselves.

The story of how Wane Mendoza launched his business is decidedly different. He had no garage. He had no partners and no wealthy parents to turn to. But Wane did have an idea, expertise, determination, and the support of Housing Opportunities Community Partners (HOCP).

He was living in an HOC apartment at The Fenton in Silver Spring when the gym where he was working as a martial arts instructor was shuttered by the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020. Not long after, Wane noticed flyers in the building lobby promoting the HOCP-funded Small Business Development program.

“I had always thought about and wanted to open my own place,” Wane said. “I was just going to jump out the window and do it, but I decided to take the course. The guidance in the course was a huge help and I learned how to do it right.”

Today, Wane is the owner of Be Miyghty Fitness, the Silver Spring fitness facility he opened in May 2023. Be Miyghty Fitness offers professional instruction in yoga, strength training, and mixed martial arts (MMA) for both youth and adults.

“There are so many great things that have happened since completing the small business course that have allowed me to open my business,” Wane said.

A Study in Self-Sufficiency

Wane drew on his 20 years in fitness and MMA as the foundation to turn his dream into a successful business reality. During the 10-week course, Wane learned how to form a business strategy, incorporate as an LLC, write and implement a marketing strategy, create a brand, and locate his prime target market.

That business success means that Wane has accomplished the ultimate goal of HOC’s supportive services: becoming self-sufficient enough to no longer need HOC affordable housing.

“Starting my LLC has opened so many doors for me that I would not have even thought possible – from business credit, to opening my space and more,” Wane said, adding, “I’ll even be joining the Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce soon.”

Programs That Develop the Future

Since 2019, HOCP has been funding small business development programs that provide intensive training courses, business start-up mentoring, guidance with certifications and legalizations, and small business accelerator assistance.

By offering a full spectrum of training and mentoring, these programs guide HOC residents from the initial business concept through contracting. Curriculum is customized for each participant, while teaching critical business skills, business plan development, legal requirements, marketing, and contracting. Upon completion, participants are able to bid for contracted work at HOC sites and take advantage of other opportunities that prioritize resident employment.