For Ed Arriaga, owner of Ed’s World Class Taekwondo, martial arts have always been more than competition. His academy focuses on leadership, confidence, and helping kids become strong, successful leaders in their communities. It all began in a garage, where Ed trained his younger brother and took him to a state championship. After his brother’s outstanding performance, people told Ed, “If you could help him get to this level, imagine what you could do for other kids.” That encouragement and his lifelong passion for martial arts pushed Ed to leave his job, invest just $500, and open his first space. With hard work and what he describes as a lot of faith, his academy has been growing ever since.
Blueprint Business Program
Ed’s business took a major step forward when he joined the Blueprint Business Program (now re-named eBridge Business Academy) at eBridge. “Ever since I got selected, it has changed my whole mentality,” Ed says. The program gave him knowledge and connected him with a community of entrepreneurs who share his drive. Ed says it’s a program that “teaches you from A to Z” and has inspired him to approach his business with new ideas and energy every day. “There is not one thing that did not help me,” he adds.
Recovery Fund
After becoming a recurring eBridge visitor, Ed also discovered BCIC’s Recovery Fund, which provided valuable support. “I applied, and I was very fortunate to be funded,” Ed says. With that support, Ed was able to invest in advertising, marketing, consulting, and equipment, all of which helped advance his business and position it for future growth. These investments gave his academy a stronger foundation to reach more families and grow its presence in the community
RGV Startup Week
During RGV Startup Week, Ed attended the event and even had the chance to share his story on stage. “The Startup Week was very exciting for me, partially because I was surrounded with people just like me,” he says. Those few minutes speaking about his journey reminded Ed of his purpose to keep growing his business while inspiring others to pursue their own dreams. “I strongly recommend attending RGV Startup Week to any entrepreneur in the community,” he says. “People should come see more of what eBridge has to offer and be part of it.”
Looking Ahead
Today, Ed continues to build champions in the classroom and beyond. “We don’t just teach martial arts,” he says with pride. “We build champions in life!” His passion and hands-on approach ensure that every student who walks through his doors feels supported and inspired to reach their full potential. With the support of BCIC through the Blueprint Program, RGV Startup Week, and the Recovery Fund, he’s been able to take his academy to the next level.
If you visit eBridge on any Wednesday after 1 Million Cups, you may find Ed engaging with the community and motivating everyone around him. He exemplifies what happens when an entrepreneur becomes an active participant in the ecosystem. He not only takes advantage of available programs and resources but also shares his knowledge and experiences with others. Through this generosity, he has become a mentor to multiple individuals beyond his Taekwondo school.