Every entrepreneur WACIF supports is writing a story of resilience and innovation. For Ana Maria Jaramillo, co-owner of La Tejana, that story is rooted in tradition, a commitment to quality, and the people who make growth possible. 

Located in Washington, DC’s Mount Pleasant neighborhood, La Tejana brings the flavors of the Rio Grande Valley to the District through traditional Tex-Mex breakfast tacos. Every item is made from scratch, with a focus on the homemade tortillas and familiar flavors that make the food special. 

What began as a small operation selling tacos from a front stoop has grown into an award-winning breakfast taco shop. Along the way, Ana Maria has learned that growing a business takes more than a great product. It also takes the right knowledge, relationships, and support system. 

How Funding Through WACIF Capital Supported Small Business Growth

Through WACIF’s Wealthy Woman Financial Transformation Program, Ana Maria gained valuable insights into financial literacy and what it takes to grow as an entrepreneur. She describes the experience as amazing and life-changing, particularly in how it shaped her understanding of investing in her business and the people around her. 

As she puts it: 

“The biggest investment you can make is in other people to help you grow.” 

That lesson reflects an important part of entrepreneurship. Building a sustainable business means recognizing where you need support, learning from others, and surrounding yourself with people who can help you move forward. 

For Ana Maria, investing in people has been part of La Tejana’s own growth. After completing the program, she doubled her workforce. The people behind the food are an essential part of bringing the La Tejana experience to the community. 

WACIF’s Commitment To Providing Small Business Support and Resources

At WACIF, we know entrepreneurs need more than one resource to succeed. Financial knowledge, professional relationships, and a strong community can all play a role in helping business owners make informed decisions and prepare for what comes next. 

Through programs like the Wealthy Woman Financial Transformation Program, WACIF helps entrepreneurs strengthen their financial knowledge, build confidence, and connect with a community of people who understand the challenges and opportunities of growing a business. 

Ana Maria’s story is a reminder that investing in a business also means investing in the people behind it. When entrepreneurs have the tools and support to grow, that impact can extend to their teams, their customers, and the communities they serve. 

Featured In WACIF’s 2025 Impact Report

Ana Maria’s story is one of many in WACIF’s 2025 Impact Report. Last year, WACIF put more than $1.3 million in loans and grants into local businesses and worked with 805 business owners across the DMV, 342 of them for the first time. Behind each of those numbers is an entrepreneur like Ana Maria, building something that lasts for their team and their community. 

Read the full 2025 Impact Report 

At WACIF, we believe in investing in people first with capital, community, and confidence. Because when entrepreneurs have the support to keep growing, their vision can become lasting impact. 

Have a vision for your business? Speak with a WACIF advisor to learn how we can help turn it into impact.