Get ready to meet the driving force behind our Entrepreneurship Center – our exceptional team of dedicated professionals. Each member brings a unique blend of expertise, passion and commitment to our mission of fostering entrepreneurial success. From seasoned business coaches to financial experts and community engagement champions, our team is here to guide, support, and empower you on your entrepreneurial journey. Allow us to introduce you to the heart and soul of our Entrepreneurship Center – the people who make dreams come to life.
Ancel Tajada, Entrepreneurship Director
Ancel Tejada serves as the Entrepreneurship Director, bringing his experience leading community-centered initiatives that promote financial stability, small business growth, and equitable access to economic opportunities. During his time with the Massachusetts Association for Community Action (MASSCAP), Ancel expanded statewide partnerships, grew free tax preparation coalitions, and led strategic outreach to improve financial outcomes for low- and moderate-income households. With a strong foundation in the financial industry, he has also held leadership roles in banking—where he developed lending strategies, increased lending accessibility, and supported clients in building long-term financial health. Known for his collaborative and equity-driven approach, Ancel continues to foster cross-sector partnerships and strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems that drive lasting community impact
Ani Vong, SBA Prime Coordinator & Business Coach
Ani is a proud Lowellian who at 2 months old came to The United States as a refugee of the Cambodian Genocide. Her love for fashion and styling at a young age sparked a dream to open her own boutique one day. Little did she know that dream would come true in 2014, when she officially became the owner of a clothing boutique in Downtown Lowell. As a Small Business owner herself, she has a deeper understanding of a Small Business owner’s struggles, challenges and opportunities. Having grown up in Lowell and witnessing its changes and progress, Ani has a well-rooted connection and outlook of what it takes to build a hyper-local community-based business.
During the start of her Entrepreneurial journey, Ani went through the Entrepreneurship Center’s SBA Microloan Program and now she supports Entrepreneurs going through the Microloan Program as well as other resources offered though the E-Center. Ani’s professional goals are to support entrepreneurs as well as to educate the public about what it really means to be a small business owner, including understanding all the beauty and ugliness that comes with it. Her personal goals are to make a difference in her community, by amplifying unheard voices using her platform. She is also committed to never stop learning and listening.
Melissa Rost, Outreach Coordinator
Melissa brings a unique blend of experience, passion and, having been born and raised in Downtown Lowell, a deep-rooted love for the city and a profound understanding of its unique character.
She is passionate about making a positive impact in the community after working as an Assistant Manager, Shift Lead, and Associate at several local small businesses in both the Lowell and Dracut area. Working behind the scenes at each small business, Melissa has witnessed first hand the challenges and opportunities businesses face.
With a degree in Media Communications, Melissa will be able to use her strong foundation in Communication, Marketing, and Audience engagement to provide compelling content through various channels to boost the visibility of our local community, open up the doors to new conversations, and showcase the opportunities of the Entrepreneurship Center.
Her personal mantra is to communicate with compassion and embrace the perspectives of others. Beyond work, you can find Melissa exploring local art markets, experimenting in the kitchen, and delving into fashion alternatives and most importantly, cherishing moments with loved ones.
