UCEDC Client Spotlight: Hilda Mera

Hilda Mera, owner of S&A Auto Repair in Newark, New Jersey, was one of UCEDC’s Virtual Incubator Program (VIP) participants. Through the VIP, selected businesses with ownership from underserved populations received mentorship, training, and funds to help meet the challenges of this moment.

While diverse businesses have struggled to find resources in the current economic climate, UCEDC’s goal is to provide them with the support they need. Our first session included twelve businesses from across New Jersey, ranging from food service to STEM tutoring.

Hilda’s small business, S&A Auto Repair, is an auto repair shop dedicated to providing affordable and trustworthy service. They also offer educational classes for women to “learn the language of their car.” The idea for the women’s empowerment workshops came to Hilda after learning that a mechanic tried to take advantage of a woman who came to S&A for a second opinion. It upset Hilda that women were being misled because they didn’t know enough about the mechanics of their cars. She’s been committed to empowering women ever since.

In this video, Hilda talks with UCEDC’s Director of Training, Joe Lamberti, about her experience with the VIP program and how it has helped her business.