Who We Are
Why We’re Different
Why We’re Different
Velez Strategies is a bilingual, woman-owned consulting firm with over 14 years of experience working at the intersection of small business development, nonprofit growth, and public sector equity. We've worked with hundreds of minority-owned businesses — especially in construction — and guided them through certifications, contracting, team development, and business transformation. We’ve designed capacity-building programs, built community engagement campaigns, trained government agencies on outreach and compliance, and helped nonprofits develop strategic plans, launch new programs, and raise critical funding.
We bring experience, cultural fluency, and a fierce commitment to results — and we do it all with a hands-on, collaborative approach that makes our clients feel supported, seen, and ready for what’s next.
Velez Strategies is proudly certified as a minority owned business and recognized as:
- 2025 Crowns of Enterprise Award – Certified MBE of the Year
Presented by the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County - 2025 Charlotte Business Journal Women in Business Award
Recognizing outstanding leadership and regional impact - 2025 Award for Excellence - HUB Advocate of the Year
Presented by the NC Department of Administration
Why We’re Different
Why We’re Different
Why We’re Different
We don’t just provide services — we become part of your team. At Velez Strategies, we build real relationships with our clients because we understand that trust is essential for growth. Our approach is honest, direct, and deeply rooted in community. We're not here to impress with jargon or one-size-fits-all solutions — we're here to roll up our sleeves and walk with you every step of the way.
We know what it’s like to wear too many hats, to carry the weight of both vision and execution, to navigate systems that weren’t built for you, and still show up every day for your clients, your team, or your community. That’s why we meet you where you are — whether you’re just starting out or scaling up — and help you move forward with clarity, confidence, and structure.
We bring a deep understanding of the challenges and barriers faced by small, minority, and women-owned businesses and organizations. But we also see the strength, the brilliance, and the potential — and we’re committed to helping you tap into it fully.
MEET Velez Strategies founder
Lissette Velez, CEO
Lissette Velez, originally from Guayaquil, Ecuador, has made North Carolina her home since 2007. With over thirteen years of experience in the construction industry and as a small business owner since 2020, Lissette has dedicated her career to empowering small businesses and community-based initiatives.
As the former Executive Director of the Hispanic Contractors Association of the Carolinas (HCAC), she led transformative initiatives, serving over 5,000 businesses and driving economic empowerment. Her contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards such as Charlotte Business Journal's 40 under 40 and multiple Advocate of the Year awards.
At Velez Strategies, she continues her mission to support small businesses, government agencies, and corporations through expert guidance, strategic planning, and tailored support. Lissette's bilingual capabilities ensure effective communication and inclusivity, making her a trusted advisor and leader in the field. Her dedication to fostering growth and championing diversity is evident in her every endeavor.