Leadership Impact Snapshot

Tamala Austin’s leadership is defined by measurable outcomes, cross-sector collaboration, and sustainable economic development impact. Her work spans public-sector infrastructure initiatives, workforce pipeline development, and small business ecosystem expansion designed to increase equitable access to opportunity.

Economic Development & Procurement Impact

• Supported initiatives contributing to over $683 million in subcontracting awards for minority-, women-, and small business enterprises
• Designed and facilitated contractor capacity-building and certification readiness programming supporting participation in large-scale capital infrastructure projects
• Developed multi-agency outreach partnerships connecting businesses to procurement opportunities across healthcare, municipal, transportation, and state sectors

Entrepreneurship & Workforce Development Leadership

• Directed and launched the Wells Fargo–funded Open for Business Program at Houston Community College
• Managed a $918,856 publicly funded program budget, ensuring compliance, performance tracking, and outcome reporting
• Led development of entrepreneurship curriculum and accelerator training models serving hundreds of small business owners and contractors
• Designed technical assistance programs focused on capital readiness, financial literacy, operational scaling, and business sustainability

Community Engagement & Public Partnership Leadership

• Led community outreach strategies supporting a successful $2.5 billion public bond initiative, coordinating more than 70 community engagement events reaching over 35,000 residents
• Builds collaborative partnerships across government agencies, financial institutions, educational systems, and community organizations to expand access to entrepreneurship and workforce resources
• Develops culturally responsive programming that addresses barriers to business participation among historically underserved populations

Entrepreneurial & Industry Experience

• Founder and CEO of J.I.V.E. Juice Company, successfully building a retail-distributed consumer product brand through strategic supply chain development, regulatory compliance, and brand growth
• Provides advisory support to entrepreneurs through coaching, technical assistance, and ecosystem navigation strategies that support business sustainability and growth

Systems & Program Development Expertise

• Proven leader in launching programs from concept through implementation, including curriculum design, partnership strategy, compliance oversight, and performance evaluation
• Specializes in translating complex institutional procurement and funding requirements into accessible pathways for small business participation
• Integrates workforce, entrepreneurship, and economic mobility strategies to create long-term community development outcomes