SUCCESS STORIES

At The B.R.I.D.G.E. to Konnect, our impact is measured by the success of the entrepreneurs and small business owners we serve. The following stories highlight how our programs, mentorship, and strategic guidance translate into real outcomes—access to capital, business growth, and long-term sustainability.

Peregrine Chapman

Owner, Fresh Tails Mobile Dog Grooming

Peregrine Chapman’s entrepreneurial journey began with a deep passion for animals and a vision to provide high-quality, mobile grooming services. Her business reached a turning point when she enrolled in the Open for Business program at Houston Community College, where she received structured training, mentorship, and business readiness support.

Through the program—led by Tamala Austin—Peregrine developed a comprehensive business plan, refined her marketing strategy, strengthened her financial readiness, and gained the confidence needed to pursue funding opportunities. With ongoing mentorship and technical guidance, she successfully competed in multiple pitch competitions and secured capital to support business growth, including:

$200 – Black Girl Ventures Pitch Competition (with an accompanying line of credit from Comerica Bank)
$5,000 – Harris Hub Small Business Support Grant
$2,000 – 5th Ward Chamber of Commerce “Shark Tank” Pitch Competition
$2,500 – Greater Houston Women’s Chamber of Commerce Pitch Competition
$3,000 – BakerRipley Ignite HTX Pitch Competition

These achievements enabled Peregrine to expand Fresh Tails Mobile Dog Grooming, a service that brings professional grooming directly to customers’ doorsteps.

Peregrine credits the Open for Business program with equipping her with the tools, discipline, and strategic mindset needed to operate and scale a sustainable business. Her success reflects the power of structured entrepreneurship education, mentorship, and access to opportunity—particularly for women-owned businesses.

Raymond Litt

Program Participant, Manifest U

Raymond Litt participated in the Manifest U program seeking clarity, direction, and a structured approach to achieving his professional and financial goals. Through guided instruction, practical frameworks, and one-on-one support, he was able to establish clear objectives and implement strategies that led to measurable progress.

Raymond describes the program as focused, actionable, and results-oriented—designed to eliminate guesswork and provide clear steps toward growth. He credits the program with helping him improve decision-making, strengthen accountability, and move forward with confidence.

The Manifest U experience reflects The B.R.I.D.G.E. to Konnect’s commitment to holistic development—supporting participants not only in business execution but also in mindset, discipline, and long-term planning.

Kym M. Adams

CEO, The Business Team

Kym Adams is the CEO of The Business Team and a former participant supported through Houston Community College’s Open for Business program. She describes Tamala Austin as an instrumental mentor and leader who provided strategic guidance, structure, and accountability during critical phases of business development.

Through the program, Kym gained insight into operational planning, time management, and strategic growth under real-world conditions. She credits the program with helping her strengthen her business foundation, improve execution, and navigate challenges effectively.

Kym’s experience highlights the impact of experienced program leadership, disciplined instruction, and results-driven mentorship in supporting business sustainability and growth.

Impact That Extends Beyond the Classroom

Each of these stories reflects The B.R.I.D.G.E. to Konnect’s commitment to delivering programs that produce measurable, real-world outcomes—stronger operational capacity, improved financial and compliance readiness, and increased access to institutional and public-sector opportunities. Our work supports entrepreneurs and emerging contractors as they move from preparation to performance, from training to execution, and from participation to competitive readiness. Through structured training, technical assistance, and ecosystem partnerships, we help businesses build the foundations required for sustainable growth and long-term success in regulated and competitive environments.