Beyond Advice: How I Help Entrepreneurs Tackle Challenges and Scale with Confidence

Throughout my journey as an investor and entrepreneur, especially during my time at SXSW, I was asked a lot about the types of businesses I invest in and about my own experience outside of entrepreneurship.

These are both great questions that I had to seriously consider, given my jumping into a more public space as an angel investor and someone who is building a community of entrepreneurs starting a business venture or just seeking out help, mentorship, support, or guidance. It makes sense, right? If you don’t know what value or in-depth experience someone has, why would you even consider them as someone who can help you move your business forward?

Photo Cred: Harold Huges, CEO of NFNTE Capital

Let’s tackle the first question, “What types of businesses do I invest in?” So, it’s not just about the business itself. It’s about the people behind the idea—their character, their passion, and the financial viability of what they’re trying to build. I believe in the potential of every idea, no matter how small it may seem at first.

I’ve seen firsthand that success isn't just built on a great idea or a product—it’s built on the people who drive that vision forward. That's why I focus on supporting entrepreneurs in a holistic way. It’s not just about the funds I can provide (though that’s part of it). It’s about offering access to the network I’ve spent years building, the community I’ve cultivated, and the expertise I bring from over two decades of experience across various industries.

Let me share a bit more about my background to help you grasp the extent of my non-entrepreneurial experience, which addresses the second question I'm frequently asked.

I know you are a successful entrepreneur Lu, but how can you help me and my business? What experiene do you have?

I know it’s hard to believe but I’m 45, knocking on door 46, and while I’ve had the privilege of gaining experience in many different roles, industries, and capacities, my core passion has always been about helping others succeed. My career has spanned multiple industries—auto, agriculture, finance, health, energy, products, and transportation. In each of these areas, I’ve specialized in tech and business strategy, helping Fortune 500 companies find clarity and make actionable decisions.

In a previous chapter of my career, I worked as a website developer and database programmer, so I’m very familiar with the technical side of business. I’ve been involved in every stage—from requirements development and design to development, testing, and go-lives. Not only have I done this hands-on, but I’ve also had the privilege of leading teams through these processes. Additionally, my experience in change management implementation and execution allows me to help businesses navigate transformation and growth effectively.

What sets me apart, however, is my ability to approach problem-solving with a clear, strategic mindset. I’m an expert in process engineering and re-engineering, and I’ve led both large and small-scale implementations using various methodologies—SDLC, Six Sigma—employing both agile and waterfall development approaches. This experience isn’t just theoretical for me; I’ve lived it. I’ve led teams, trained and mentored project managers and developers, and built processes that have helped businesses scale effectively.

It’s these skills and experiences that have shaped me into the successful and optimistic entrepreneur I am today—and they’re exactly what allow me to guide so many others through the complex entrepreneurial landscape.

Got it. What should I anticipate when I become a part of your community, and in what ways will it be beneficial for me and my business?

When you become part of my community, you're not just getting another advisor who hands you instructions without the actionable steps to follow. You’re gaining direct access to me—a wealth of knowledge, a diverse network, and my network of partners who are able and capable to help you at every stage of your journey.

I provide more than advice—I provide real support.

Here’s how:

My community: My community is full of like-minded entrepreneurs who are all committed to learning, growing, and succeeding together. This group is a resource in itself, offering a space where they can ask questions, share ideas, and collaborate.
Mentorship: I give my time to mentor the members in my community, not just by sharing advice, but by helping them think through challenges, develop strategies, and take actionable steps forward. I want to empower each of them to make the best decisions for their business.
Connecting my members with key players in my network: One of the most valuable assets I can provide is my network. I’ve spent years cultivating relationships with experts, investors, and decision-makers. When the time comes for them to take things to the next level, I’ll work to connect them with the right people who can help you expand beyond where they are today.
Practical, actionable support: My approach is rooted in making things simpler and clearer for each entrepreneur in my community. I help them break down complex problems into manageable steps, offering clarity and actionable strategies so you can move forward with confidence.
Out-of-the-box strategies: One of my strongest skills is bringing innovative and creative solutions to the table. I help entrepreneurs break through roadblocks by thinking outside the box, finding unconventional solutions, and opening up new pathways for growth and success.
Creation of self-sufficiency: I show entrepreneurs how to maximize their existing revenue-generating opportunities without always relying on external funding. By focusing on what’s already working and refining those areas, I help businesses become more self-sufficient and less dependent on outside capital. But if their business venture calls for it, I’ll help get them ready to start that process and support you through it.
Taming the mental chaos: Business challenges can often feel overwhelming and chaotic. I help entrepreneurs create structure and clarity, simplifying complex problems and providing clear, actionable steps to move forward with confidence.
Stop or minimize unnecessary spending: I work closely with entrepreneurs to evaluate their current cash flow and identify areas where they can minimize or cut unnecessary spending. By streamlining operations and focusing on efficiency, we ensure resources are being used in the most effective way possible.
Growth and stabilization: Growing too quickly can be as dangerous as growing too slowly. I guide entrepreneurs through the essential stage of stabilization, helping them assess whether it’s the right time to expand or if they should focus on strengthening their current offerings before moving on to the next stage. This approach ensures that growth is not just fast, but sustainable and financially viable.

I know I am different than probably any entrepreneurial advisor, business advisor, consultant, mentor, or coach you have come across. I’m not just here to advise you—I’m here to support you every step of the way. My experiences have given me a unique perspective on business growth. I’ve navigated complex industries, worked in the trenches, and learned valuable lessons along the way. All of this informs the way I work with and guide entrepreneurs today.

As a business ally, a mentor, and a connector, my mission is to help you achieve your goals with clarity and confidence, so you can thrive no matter what industry you’re tackling.

If you're tired of flushing money down the drain and want more than just guidance—if you're ready for a strategic edge, connections to the right people, and real-world expertise—I’m here to help. Let’s connect and take you and your business to the next level.

It’s never too late to build the business you’ve always wanted—start now with clarity and confidence. Here are a few ways you can take action today:

Join my T.R.E.I.© Business Accelerator Community – Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and access the tools and support you need to launch and grow your business.
Start my course: Profit Pursuit – Dive into my proven system to help you refine and launch your business with clarity and confidence.
Grab your copy of Profit Pursuit: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Starting a Business – This guide will walk you through the essential steps to build a successful business.
Follow me on Instagram – Stay inspired and connected for tips and insights as you grow your business.
Subscribe to my YouTube Channel – Get valuables business advice designed to help you navigate your entrepreneurial journey.
Learn more at www.lusiadonovan.com – Explore everything I offer and find the resources that can take your business to the next level.

Oh, and don’t forget to bookmark my blog, The Launch Pad, for all the latest updates and strategies to fuel your success!