Principal
C3 Tech
As the daughter of immigrants, Tricia Sanchez comes from a humble background growing up in Santa Ana. Early on in life, she decided that academics would open her doors that would otherwise remain closed and was determined to educate herself. Her hard work, tenacity, and dedication got her admitted to the University of Southern California (USC) on a full-tuition scholarship. While there, she had to make ends meet by working as a waitress on campus through the federal work-study program. She graduated in 1987 majoring in communications, being the first one in her family to attend and graduate from college.
After graduation, Sanchez accepted an opportunity to work at Xerox as an account executive in copier sales. As she gained experience, her devotion to client service catapulted her rise to become a top sales representative in the Southern California region.
In 1994, Sanchez and her husband founded Copier Products Group Inc., the predecessor of C3 Tech, a woman- and minority-owned information technology (IT) and office technology company located in her hometown of Santa Ana. As principal, she is responsible for creating and maintaining customer and employee relationships. Her strong emphasis on client service inspired C3 Tech’s name because C3 stands for “Client-Centric Consulting.” Such customer-focused mentality combined with Tricia’s leadership and business talents has led C3 Tech to become an industry leader and pioneer in dark web protection, copier repair, and computer security services. Today, C3 Tech serves more than 300 businesses across Orange County providing critical IT services and protecting companies from crippling disruptions and devastating cyber-attacks.
True to her entrepreneurial spirit, in 2005 Sanchez also joined her father Rueben Martinez in his joint venture with Hudson News at the John Wayne Airport. Hudson’s premier level of service resonated with her own business philosophy, and Team Martinez Sanchez and Hudson News have had a thriving relationship ever since.
Meanwhile, she continues to score major successes with C3 Tech. Sanchez just won a major copier contract with Orange County that was awarded in April 2023. This deal entails the sale, implementation, and service of over 1,000 copiers and printers throughout the county’s offices.
Entrepreneur and Founder Finalists
Cindy Couyoumjian
Founder & CEO
Cinergy Financial
Cindy Couyoumjian is a pioneer in the financial services industry. She opened Cinergy Financial over 20 years ago to help people achieve the American Dream. She thrived in a largely male-dominated industry by forging her own unique brand and identity. Couyoumjian sounded the alarm on the 60/40 investment portfolio long before the large banks deemed it dead in the water. She spent years developing her potentially innovative, flexible, and customizable REALM multi-asset investment model and consistently ranks among the top five financial advisors in Orange County.
In addition to being a leading financial innovator, Couyoumjian is also a best-selling author. Her books, “Redefining Financial Literacy” and “The Rise of Women and Wealth,” are best-sellers. She has also hosted her own radio program and will soon host her own television show about the importance of financial literacy.
Rebecca Ann Hall
President & CEO
Idea Hall
Rebecca Hall, APR, is a dynamic figure in public relations, branding and marketing with over 20 years in Orange County's business world. Founding Idea Hall since its inception in 2003, Hall has transformed the agency from a B2B specialist into a consumer-focused powerhouse. Her expertise includes commercial real estate, hospitality, healthcare and community initiatives. Her commitment to community service and giving back is evident in Idea Hall's DNA – in the past year, employees contributed over 2,900 hours of volunteer work and the agency donated $197,000 in cash grants and in-kind services. Idea Hall's accolades include prestigious awards and recognitions, including from PRSA and GlobeSt. As a mentor and influencer, Hall's leadership transcends her firm, empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs. Amidst all achievements, she takes special pride in being a dedicated mother.
Anna Lisa Lukes
Co-Founder & CEO
The Lukes Network, LLC
Anna Lisa Lukes is a seasoned business professional with expertise in executive-level management, law, sustainability, fundraising, and philanthropy. She is the owner and founder of The Lukes Network, a woman- and minority-owned company, leveraging her corporate entrepreneurship to provide sustained competitive advantage to organizations. Active in the community, she serves on the County of Orange Workforce Development Board and the board of Habitat for Humanity of Orange County. Lukes’ firm hosts the annual Three B Summit, fostering collaboration for economic and workforce development and environmental sustainability. TLN successfully managed city-wide community events and led public and government relations for Moulton Museum. Currently, she is spearheading project management and fundraising efforts for the 45th anniversary celebration of NeighborWorks Orange County, promoting home ownership and wealth building.
Kim Sherman
President & CEO
Echo Media Group
Kim Sherman, CEO and founder of Echo Media Group, is a respected figure in Orange County's marketing scene. With a 30-year legacy leading Echo, she's shaped it into an award-winning integrated marketing communications agency. Her team offers customer-centric strategies, spanning website design, content, digital media, and more, with a focus on driving results and exceeding goals. Sherman initiated Echo as a PR firm, which evolved into a comprehensive agency. Her expertise has fostered a vast network and board appointments, including the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce and the OneOC board. Passionate about community impact, she co-founded the Professional Communications Exchange and contributes to numerous charitable initiatives. Under Sherman’s leadership, Echo Media Group received the “Civic 50 OC” recognition, affirming her commitment to both professional excellence and giving back.
Erica Solis
Founder & CEO
Poppy Life Care
Erica Solis, a dedicated entrepreneur and business executive, holds over 11 years of experience in scaling companies. She began her career by facilitating world-class technology systems and launching tech start-ups into global recognition. Solis has a proven record of growing businesses, notably expanding SAVAS HEALTH from two to eight clinics and over $10 million in business in a year. She co-founded Movocash, growing it from ideation to a fintech solution with innovative features. Passionate about mental health she founded Poppy Life Care, which has evolved into a comprehensive healthcare network offering holistic services to patients across the U.S. Partnering with notable organizations, she's extended outreach to underserved populations. Solis’ leadership has earned recognition from Octane OC, Red Herring, and more, showcasing her remarkable skills in sustainable business management.
Brenda Springer
Founder & CEO
Reveille, Inc.
Brenda Springer's journey began with Skid Row, propelling her into an impactful communications career. As Reveille's founder, she steers the agency to excel in branding and PR, earning accolades for innovative campaigns. She guided campaigns for major nonprofits, tackling diverse issues from diversity awareness to poverty alleviation. Springer's strategic prowess extends to globally recognized organizations like City of Hope, where she achieved over 81% brand awareness. Beyond her profession, Costa Mesa resident Springer mentors the next generation of communicators and established HEATED Conversations, fostering discussions on pressing societal topics. Her energy and expertise illuminate others' stories, making her a beacon of positive change within and beyond the Orange County community. Springer also taught at Vanguard University and helped interns launch their careers in the communications field.
