About

The Team

Fase1 is led by a women’s group experienced in entrepreneurship and with the ability to contribute positively to those who participate in the program.

Bárbara Rivera Chinea (she)

The executive director of Fase1 worked for more than 15 years at the Puerto Rico Department of Economic Development and Commerce, where she supported small businesses as a Federal Contracting consultant and Acting Manager of the Procurement Technical Assistance Center (aka FeCC). Bárbara also worked in the establishment of the Puerto Rico IT Cluster and has led agricultural development projects such as Recuperación Agrícola and Re-Grow Puerto Rico. For her, entrepreneurs are “los bravos de la película” so she is excited about working with them since the beginning of their initiatives. In her free time, Barbara enjoys dining out with friends, cooking, reading, and going to the beach with lots of sunscreen.

A quote she likes:
“Do what you love, and love what you do.”

Bianca Marina Corujo (she)

Bianca, our Operations Manager and former Startup Executive began her career in the entrepreneurial ecosystem working for two startups to which she was able to contribute her experience and education in business and digital business and innovation. One of the things that most motivates her to be a part of the Fase1 team is encouraging people to believe in their ideas and develop an innovative mindset to make them a reality. To disconnect and maintain balance, Bianca enjoys the beach and spending time with her friends.

A quote she likes:
“¡Lánzate! Los ‘no’ son gratis.”

Amanda Laguerra (she)

Amanda began her journey in the entrepreneurial ecosystem as a market and social media researcher. In this role, she had the opportunity to mentor and provide workshops to teams with innovative projects. As a Fase1 Startup Executive, she hopes to serve as a resource and motivator for all who need her during their entrepreneurial journey. In her free time, this inveterate creative likes to paint her nails depending on her mood, do yoga, and read.

A quote she likes:
“Haz lo que puedas, con lo que tienes, eso será suficiente.”

Laura V. Figueroa Morales (she)

Laura is an advertising professional committed to the development of startups. Her personal and professional journey has empowered her to make a positive impact on community initiatives and both local and international businesses. She is motivated to contribute to the economic and technological development of Puerto Rico. As Fase1 Startup Entrepreneurship Specialist, she aims to be a source of guidance and inspiration for individuals embarking on their entrepreneurial ventures. She describes herself as disciplined, tenacious, and a dreamer. Laura finds joy in music, cinema, Formula 1, traveling, reading, skincare, and self-taught programming.

A quote she likes:
“Believe in yourself and your abilities, and the world will open up to you.” – Katt Williams