When Toyota called Rosa Santana in 2014 with an unexpected opportunity, she didn’t hesitate. Though she had never worked in manufacturing, she jumped at the chance to build truck beds for the company, becoming the first Hispanic- and woman-owned direct Tier I supplier to Toyota. Today, Rosa leads the Santana Group, a family of companies that create jobs across the U.S. and Mexico. As a member of ICIC’s Board of Directors and an advisor to our new Manufacturing Accelerator Program (MAP), Rosa is helping other small manufacturers grow with confidence. Manufacturing changed her life, and now she's helping make that possible for others too. Read More

Caron Ng didn’t plan to lead a manufacturing company. But when her family needed her, she stepped into NU-SET Lock and never looked back. From warehouse staff to Principal CEO, Caron helped the business grow from traditional lockboxes to smart security products, earning more than 22 patents and trademarks along the way. As an alumna of ICIC’s Inner City Capital Connections program, Caron gained the tools to scale her business and now serves on the advisory board for ICIC’s Manufacturing Accelerator Program. Her story shows how innovation and legacy are working together to impact the future of manufacturing. Read More

The launch of ICIC’s Manufacturing Accelerator Program (MAP) shows what’s possible when collaboration drives innovation. Developed with guidance from an advisory board of business and education leaders, and supported by partners like the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) and Georgia Tech’s Enterprise Innovation Institute, MAP’s inaugural cohort is equipping 61 manufacturers with the tools to scale sustainably. Program Director Brian Becker, an ICIC alumnus and former manufacturer, understands the challenges firsthand. His leadership ensures that business owners gain not only growth strategies but also the community and networks they need to thrive. Thanks to the generosity of sponsors, including Eastern Bank, MassMutual Foundation, Schooner Foundation, and ICIC’s Board of Directors, MAP is offered at no cost, demonstrating the power of partnerships in creating inclusive economic opportunities. Read More

For Mayumi Bae, food is memory, culture, and healing all in one. Drawing from her Japanese roots and her personal journey to plant-based living, she co-founded The Plant Based Workshop—celebrated for its rich flavors and comforting noodles. Balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, Mayumi has grown her business from a beloved Vancouver café to a national brand carried by hundreds of retailers and featured in select universities.  Her latest innovation? NOODS Ramen Kits—pantry-stable, nutrient-rich, and ready in just four minutes. Through commitment and connection, Mayumi is crafting a future where plant-based living is both accessible and joyful. Read More