Claudia Manrique

Project Manager • Ecosystem Building

she/her

Claudia was born and raised in Irapuato, Guanajuato, Mexico, with her weekends often spent in the vibrant strawberry fields that surrounded her hometown. These cherished memories fostered her deep appreciation for agriculture and community.

After earning her degree in Organizational Psychology, Claudia dedicated over a decade to working in financial institutions across Mexico, overseeing operations and human resources in the northern regions. These experiences shaped her understanding of the financial needs and challenges faced by diverse communities, leading her to develop strategies that promoted financial literacy and empowerment.

Claudia then immigrated to California, where she shifted her focus to nonprofit organizations dedicated to supporting Latino communities on the Central Coast. Her work has been instrumental in providing financial wellness education and developing a guaranteed income model aimed at helping families achieve their financial goals. Additionally, she has played a pivotal role in enhancing sustainable economic stability for small business owners by advancing collaborative projects that promote equitable access to resources.

Claudia has most recently served as the Regional Women’s Business Center Director where she helped women entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality. Through innovative programs and hands-on support, she has been a driving force in fostering entrepreneurship in the region.

Driven by her passion for fostering community and collaboration, Claudia continues to make a significant impact on the lives of those she serves, championing economic empowerment and sustainability in every endeavor. Claudia is thrilled to be a part of KTA! She’s excited to foster growth and development, and share her knowledge with her community while supporting farmers and ranchers in gaining access to equitable resources.