Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has reappointed Eduardo Contreras, Lisa Fullerton, and Omar Veliz to the Small Business Assistance Advisory Task Force for terms set to expire on June 14, 2025. The Task Force advises and assists the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House with issues that relate to small businesses and provides information to the public on issues related to small businesses.

Eduardo Contreras of Austin is founder and CEO of ALCON DTS and has worked in the IT security, networking, telecommunications, and software industries for the past 20 years. He founded his first company in 2001 and has served as both CEO and board member to several diverse companies. He is a board member of the Greater Austin Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, member of the NFIB Leadership Council, and member of the Forbes Entrepreneur & Small Business Forum.

Lisa Fullerton of Boerne is president and CEO of A Novel Idea, LLC. She has owned and operated multiple Auntie Anne’s and Cinnabon franchises in San Antonio since 2000. She is the current chair of the NFIB/Texas Leadership Council and a board member of the Alliance Defending Freedom. Additionally, she is a former executive board member for the North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce. Fullerton received a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Texas State University.

Omar Veliz of El Paso is the president of Veliz Construction and a professional engineer in Texas and New Mexico. He is a member of the American Hospital Association, Associated General Contractors of America, and Lean Construction Institute. Additionally, he is a member of the advisory board of The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Construction Management Program. Veliz received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Master of Science in Business Administration from UTEP.

These reappointments highlight the Governor's commitment to supporting small businesses in the state of Texas. The Small Business Assistance Advisory Task Force plays a crucial role in advising and assisting the Governor and other state leaders on matters related to small businesses. By reappointing Contreras, Fullerton, and Veliz, Governor Abbott ensures that the Task Force continues to benefit from their expertise and experience.

Eduardo Contreras brings a wealth of knowledge in IT security and entrepreneurship to the Task Force. His experience in founding and leading multiple companies will be invaluable in addressing the challenges faced by small businesses in the rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Lisa Fullerton's extensive experience in the franchising industry and her leadership roles in various business organizations make her a valuable asset to the Task Force. Her insights will contribute to the development of effective strategies to support and promote small businesses in Texas.

Omar Veliz's background as a professional engineer and his involvement in construction management will provide the Task Force with valuable perspectives on the unique challenges faced by small businesses in the construction industry. His advisory board membership at UTEP further demonstrates his commitment to the growth and development of future small business owners.

As a collective, these reappointments ensure that the Small Business Assistance Advisory Task Force remains well-rounded and equipped to address the diverse needs of small businesses across various industries in Texas. The Task Force's continued efforts will contribute to the overall economic growth and prosperity of the state.

Governor Abbott's reappointment of Eduardo Contreras, Lisa Fullerton, and Omar Veliz to the Small Business Assistance Advisory Task Force demonstrates his commitment to supporting small business owners and entrepreneurs in Texas. Their expertise and leadership will undoubtedly contribute to the success of the Task Force in its mission to provide guidance and assistance to small businesses and promote a thriving business environment in the state.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-reappoints-three-to-small-business-assistance-advisory-task-force