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WELCOME TO
Capital Circles
Houston
Leaning into the power of community as capital
About Capital Circles
Capital Circles is a program of the Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership (IFEL) designed to bring together investors, champions, ecosystem builders, and advocates (collectively “changemakers”) who are committed to expanding access to capital and opportunities for more entrepreneurs. Through intentional relationship-building and shared learning, Capital Circles works to strengthen relationship connectivity, mobilize resources, and drive access by leveraging the power of community-based collaboration.
Capital Circles is generously supported by grant funding from
Support the Featured Entrepreneurs
![Unlocking Capital [Houston].png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/36bcde_8e3d806c06b24721b63eb7290660755f~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_376,h_376,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Unlocking%20Capital%20%5BHouston%5D.png)
Shantel Carter
Founder and CEO
SheIgnite is a career advancement platform designed to help professional women navigate continuous growth with confidence. We connect women to trusted experts, practical learning experiences, and a supportive community that equips them with the skills and resources needed to advance their careers, strengthen their leadership, build financial confidence, and achieve long-term professional success.
![Unlocking Capital [Houston] (1).png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/36bcde_25145dfd18b244d995bc5cce86a586c3~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_376,h_376,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Unlocking%20Capital%20%5BHouston%5D%20(1).png)
Mia Upshaw
Founder and CEO
Mia Upshaw Productions is an independent film production studio dedicated to bringing meaningful stories to life and empowering emerging creatives. We collaborate with filmmakers, screenwriters, directors, and artists to develop original content and bring creative visions to life. Through hands-on support in film development, production, and distribution, we help independent storytellers overcome industry challenges, advance their projects, and create compelling stories that entertain, inspire, and spark conversation.
Marion Perez
Founder and CEO
VESL WTR is a wellness-focused hydration brand dedicated to making everyday hydration more intentional. Through its thoughtfully formulated remineralized water, VESL combines clean, refreshing hydration with carefully selected nutrients, including biotin, niacinamide, magnesium, silica, and proline. Designed to complement daily wellness routines, VESL offers a balanced approach to hydration that supports skin, muscle, and overall well-being, helping individuals prioritize self-care through a simple, everyday essential.
![Unlocking Capital [Houston] (3).png](https://static.wixstatic.com/media/36bcde_685d0c3d815d414ab95dcee7eb970563~mv2.png/v1/fill/w_376,h_376,al_c,q_85,usm_0.66_1.00_0.01,enc_avif,quality_auto/Unlocking%20Capital%20%5BHouston%5D%20(3).png)
Dawn Thomas
Founder and CEO
Repay Wisely is a student loan education and advisory platform dedicated to helping borrowers navigate student loan repayment with clarity and confidence. Through personalized guidance, educational workshops, and practical financial strategies, Repay Wisely helps individuals explore repayment plans, loan forgiveness opportunities, and options for managing student debt. With a focus on financial empowerment and informed decision-making, the company equips borrowers with the knowledge and resources needed to reduce financial stress, make smarter repayment choices, and work toward long-term financial freedom.
Community Collaboration Makes the Difference
Watch the highlight video from the Houston Capital Circles Hackathon held on January 23, 2026, to experience the energy, collaboration, and impact that define a live Capital Circles event.
Featured Capital Circles Partner
Collaboration Partners
