MATTER celebrates Hispanic and Latino founders driving innovation in healthcare
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, MATTER proudly recognizes the Hispanic and Latinx founders who are transforming the healthcare landscape. These trailblazing innovators are not only addressing critical health challenges, but are also pioneering solutions that promote equity, accessibility and improved outcomes for historically marginalized communities. Their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to inclusive healthcare inspire us all, and their contributions are paving the way for a brighter, healthier future for everyone.
Three MATTER member companies share what Hispanic Heritage Month means to them and how it fuels their mission to drive meaningful change in healthcare.
Angel Enriquez at Emboa Medical
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally and professionally?
Angel Enriquez (AE): Personally, it means a moment to reflect on the past role models that made it possible for Hispanics to be recognized around the world. It’s great to think back at their time and hardships they encountered yet the impactful achievements they made.
In what ways has your heritage played a role in shaping your company’s values and mission?
AE: At Emboa we are aware of the health disparities when treating stroke. BIPOC individuals are two times more likely than white adults to experience a first-time stroke. Therefore, we have made a corporate social responsibility mission to promote awareness of health equity disparities as well as identifying stroke in the community and resources available to address it.
What advice would you give to other Hispanic entrepreneurs or those aspiring to start their own business?
AE: Use your community to help you along the way. You might think and find yourself on a lonely path but know that your community has your back. Additionally, surround yourself with people interested in not just seeing your company succeed, but are also interested in seeing you succeed.
Dr. Reyna Trevino at Doctor Roses
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally and professionally?
Reyna Trevino (RT): Hispanic Heritage Month holds deep personal and professional significance for me. Personally, it is a time to reflect on the values and work ethic my family instilled in me, especially my father’s influence for excellence. The importance of unity and working together as a family unit to produce a meaningful outcome with others has been a guiding force throughout my journey.
Professionally, as a Latina entrepreneur and physician, it is an honor beyond measure to represent the limitless possibilities available to us. It’s a testament to the power of creativity and ingenuity when combined with strong relationships. I am proud to care for babies and toddlers as if they were my own, reflecting the family spirit that shapes everything I do.
In what ways has your heritage played a role in shaping your company’s values and mission?
RT: My heritage has deeply influenced the values and mission of Doctor Roses in several ways. Growing up in a close-knit Hispanic community, I witnessed firsthand the importance of family, caregiving and trust in healthcare. This instilled in me a passion for providing accessible, reliable and effective care, especially for vulnerable populations like infants. At Doctor Roses, we strive to create products that reflect these values by focusing on safety, hygiene and the well-being of babies.
Additionally, my cultural roots have guided our mission to serve diverse communities, ensuring that our products meet the needs of all families, including those who may face language or cultural barriers when accessing healthcare. This commitment to inclusivity, compassion and quality care is at the heart of everything we do.
What advice would you give to other Hispanic entrepreneurs or those aspiring to start their own business?
RT: My advice to Hispanic entrepreneurs or those aspiring to start their own business is to never give up, even when the road feels challenging. There will be moments when obstacles seem insurmountable, but persistence is key. Surround yourself with people who offer constructive advice and listen carefully, as their insights can be valuable. However, always remember that the ultimate decision rests with you.
Trust your instincts and your vision — no one understands your dream better than you do. As a Hispanic entrepreneur, your unique experiences and perspectives are your strengths. Stay true to your values, embrace your heritage and continue pushing forward, even when things get tough.
Corinne Vargas at SMARTCharts
What does Hispanic Heritage Month mean to you personally and professionally?
Corinne Vargas (CV): Hispanic Heritage Month means celebrating the rich culture and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities. For me, it’s a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility, especially in healthcare. At SMARTCharts we’re committed to creating solutions that break down barriers and ensure diverse populations have access to the care they need. It’s also a time to reflect on the values of perseverance and community, which were instilled in me since I was a kiddo and continue to drive my work and inspire me as an entrepreneur.
In what ways has your heritage played a role in shaping your company’s values and mission?
CV: My background and family experiences have deeply influenced SMARTCharts’ values and mission which is to help every patient achieve their ultimate rehabilitation. I grew up with a strong base and commitment to inclusivity, community and perseverance, and I learned the importance of making sure everyone, regardless of background or language, feels seen and supported. This has shaped SMARTCharts’ focus on breaking down barriers in healthcare and making essential data accessible to all, especially underserved communities. The value of hard work and resilience drives my dedication to innovation and creating solutions that empower both patients and care teams alike.
What advice would you give to other Hispanic entrepreneurs or those aspiring to start their own business?
CV: Don’t be afraid to bring your culture and values into your work — it can drive innovation and help you connect with diverse audiences. Build a strong network and seek out mentors and peers who understand the challenges you may face, but also believe in your potential. Be resilient in the face of obstacles, stay true to your mission and always remember that your story and voice matter. Keep pushing forward, and trust in the value you bring to the table.
About Emboa Medical
Emboa Medical is revolutionizing stroke care with their novel catheter technology, designed to dramatically improve treatment outcomes by increasing the efficiency of removing blood clots that cause stroke. This time-sensitive condition requires the rapid removal of these obstructive blood clots for better patient outcomes. Inspired by nature, their unique catheter tip design uses proprietary microstructures to safely enhance clot removal and increase treatment success rates.
About Doctor Roses
Doctor Roses is a pediatrician-founded company dedicated to creating innovative, safe and effective health solutions for infants. With a mission to provide parents with peace of mind, our products are designed to address common concerns like nasal congestion, ensuring babies’ comfort and well-being. Backed by over 25 years of medical experience, Doctor Roses blends evidence-based practices with practical, user-friendly designs, giving families trusted, high-quality solutions. Our commitment to integrity and care drives everything we do, helping parents focus on the joyful moments of parenthood.
About SMARTCharts
SMARTCharts is an AI-powered EHR add-on built to visualize therapeutic rehabilitation data and automate documentation. The solution reduces revenue cycles and increases care team communications and data-driven decision-making for speech, occupational and physical therapy providers.
About MATTER
At MATTER, we believe collaboration is the best way to improve healthcare. The MATTER collaborative includes more than 1,000 current and alumni startups from around the world, working together with dozens of hospitals and health systems, universities and industry-leading companies to build the future of healthcare. Together we are accelerating innovation, advancing care and improving lives. For more information, visit matter.health and follow @MATTERhealth.