Undocumented Entrepreneurs Share Their Path to $255K Combined Revenue!
🎙️ In today’s video, we hosted a powerful fireside chat featuring two inspiring undocumented entrepreneurs: Jennifer Aguilar, founder of the eco-conscious beauty brand Mutaats, and Joel Ojeda, founder of ALLIES Pro Services and Merchant Solutions. Together, they’ve launched multiple businesses, hired contractors, and built brands rooted in impact — not just income.
This was made possible to Yaneyry from Scholars without Borders at Cal Poly Humboldt & UndocuStartup!
We talked about starting from zero, building legitimate businesses without DACA, and what it actually takes to grow while balancing risk, mental health, and impact. You’ll hear real stories, real advice, and real strategies from founders who are doing the work — in their communities and across industries.
🔑 Key Points From This Episode:
How to start a business as an undocumented student — with or without DACA
The power of pivoting, patience, and product evolution
Why LLCs offer protection and how to navigate risk strategically
The value of mentorship, ITINs, and W-9s in business growth
Tips on marketing, pitching yourself, and growing on Instagram
Mental health, burnout, and creating boundaries as a solo founder
Redefining success through impact and community hiring
Using your story to inspire — without always disclosing your status
✨ Featured Guests:
Jennifer Aguilar – Founder of Mutaats, eco-friendly lipstick handmade at home
Linkedin: / jennifer-aguilar-583259203
Instagram: / mutaats
Website: https://mutaats.com/
Joel Ojeda – Founder of ALLIES Pro Services & Merchant Solutions, employing 6+ contractors
Linkedin: / ojeda-joel
Instagram: / allies_proservices
Website: alliesproservices.com
💬 Who This Episode Is For:
Undocumented students exploring entrepreneurship
First-gen founders building businesses from scratch
Anyone navigating risk, identity, and business at the same time
Colleges, allies, and program directors looking to learn what undocumented founders really need
🔗 Mentioned Resources:
Immigrants Rising Therapy Services
California SBDC for Business Advising
Tips for Launching with ITIN + EIN
How to Use Instagram to Get Clients
Building Your First Website (Wix, Squarespace, or Shopify)
🧠 Be motivated. Stay motivated.
📍 Hosted by Juan Maya Hernandez, founder of UndocuStartup™
🚀 12 Ways to connect with me:
1. Join my FREE newsletter: https://shorturl.at/mpzLO
2. Support my business: https://www.undocustartup.com
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6. Linkedin: / juanmayahernandez
7. Linkedin Newsletter: / 7011183488515129344
8. Reddit: / undocumentedstudents
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10. Threads: https://www.threads.net/@jmayahern
11. Email me: [email protected]
12. Listen to my podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh...
📈 Support The Mission: Our goal for 2025 is to help over 1,000 students launch businesses across California. If you are an ally of undocumented students and interested in helping them start their own businesses in college, let's collaborate! Visit www.undocustartup.com and set up an information call with us.
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