Investing in the Next Generation
of Latin Entrepreneurs
Old Ways, New Hands turns mentorship into momentum.
Founded by Chef Richard Sandoval, Old Ways, New Hands gives emerging Latin food and beverage entrepreneurs access to mentorship, resources, meaningful connections and funding designed to help move their businesses forward.
$25,000. FIVE ENTREPRENEURS.
FIVE NEXT CHAPTERS.
In 2026, Old Ways, New Hands expanded its commitment beyond mentorship.
In collaboration with El Tequileño Tequila, each of our five entrepreneurs received a $5,000 business grant to invest directly into the next stage of their business.
From increasing production and launching products into retail to developing teams, strengthening operations and reaching new customers, each entrepreneur is putting that funding toward a goal with the potential to create lasting growth.
$25K IN GRANTS
5 ENTREPRENEURS
5 BUSINESSES MOVING FORWARD
MEET THE 2026 ENTREPRENEURS
Five businesses. Five distinct visions. One shared drive to build what’s next.
FERNANDA GOvaz
Founder, Celzo Agua Fresca
EDWIN SANDOVAL
Founder, Xatrucho Concepts
HENRY BLANCO
El Viejo Central American Kitchen
Alejandro Macias Canales
Founder, Qué Sazón Foods
NORMA ZUNIGA
Founder, Dulce Dreams Café
ROOTED IN HERITAGE. BUILT FOR WHAT'S NEXT.
Old Ways, New Hands celebrates the traditions, ideas and entrepreneurial spirit shaping the future of Latin food and beverage.
Our entrepreneurs aren't simply preserving what came before them. They're building on it—creating new products, businesses and experiences that carry culture forward.
IN COLLABORATION WITH EL TEQUILEÑO
The 2026 Old Ways, New Hands journey was made possible in collaboration with El Tequileño Tequila, whose roots in Tequila, Jalisco provided the backdrop for this year's mentorship residency and whose support helped extend the program's impact through $25,000 in business grants
TESTIMONIALS
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"Old Ways New Hands was an incredible journey! I highly recommend it to anyone eager to deepen their involvement in the culinary world. The amazing cohort, talented chefs, and supportive behind-the-scenes staff made this experience truly unforgettable. Not only did I acquire valuable skills in creating a well-executed business, but I also forged lasting friendships and built a strong network within the industry. Chef Richard is cooking a new world of opportunities, offering a fresh and innovative ways to share his knowledge with future chefs, food creators, and restauranteurs."
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"Being a part of Chef Richard Sandoval’s Old Ways, New Hands was truly an honor. Learning directly from such an inspiring culinary expert and his amazing team reaffirmed my belief in the power of food to connect people and celebrate culture. This mentorship was more than just teaching skills; it was about passing down a passion for achieving greatness and highlighting Latino excellence. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to sharpen my skills, honor my family's heritage and rich Mexican traditions, and connect with an amazing community of talented Latino chefs. "
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"'Old Ways, New Hands' was such an incredible learning experience and mentorship opportunity, and I am forever grateful for all the connections and relationships I was able to form! Chef Sandoval and team gave us full access to the soft opening of just one of his numerous international restaurants, and we were able to taste menus, ask questions, and learn about all the logistics and operations involved with running such a huge operation! We even got an opportunity to live out our dreams and compete in a food challenge and have our creations judged, all on film! I am truly lucky to be a part of the first cohort, and implore any aspiring chef, content creator or restaurant owner to apply to next year's campaign!"
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"From the very first day, the program immersed me in the heart of hospitality, allowing me to learn from the best in the field and experience firsthand the magic behind some of the world’s most renowned restaurants. Visiting Richard Sandoval’s iconic restaurants and seeing their daily operations gave me insight into how tradition and innovation are blended in every dish and dining experience. This program has taught me how to combine what I’ve learned with my own vision, propelling me to take my ideas to the next level."
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"I will always be grateful to Chef Sandoval and his delightful team for this inaugural Old Ways, New Hands trip! It was truly an unforgettable experience. As someone who’s recently made the jump from public school teacher to line cook this cohort not only reinforced my decision and built my confidence. It also opened my eyes to the many different ventures and paths I can pursue in the culinary industry and taught me how to workshop and build a beautiful dish from idea to final product. Most importantly though, for me, it built a supportive and proud community of latino chefs, creators, and culinary entrepreneurs that I continue to turn to for ideas, support, and camaraderie!"
IN THE PRESS
