About UndocuStartup

Our Why

At UndocuStartup, our mission is to help undocumented students unlock career and income opportunities through entrepreneurship. Our flagship program, the UndocuStartup™ Bootcamp, helps students turn ideas into action. In just one day, participants build, pitch, and validate a business — often securing their first customer. We're not here to lecture. We're here to get results. UndocuStartup™ is more than a name — it's a mindset. It represents the undocumented student who refuses to wait for permission and chooses to create something of their own. We believe there are no limits to what undocumented entrepreneurs can build. You are not confined to independent contracting. You can launch startups, service businesses, nonprofits, digital products, or anything you imagine. By partnering with colleges and universities, we deliver programming exclusively designed for undocumented students — no status required. We're not just building programs. We're building the leading entrepreneurship platform for undocumented students across the U.S. And the bootcamp? It's just the beginning.

Our why photo
My headshot

Founder's Story

At 21, I landed my dream internship but couldn't be hired due to my status—no DACA. Despite having the skills, I lacked work authorization. Determined to solve this problem, I turned to entrepreneurship. Prior to this, I started a headshot photography business to fund my UCLA education. That's when I realized my future didn't depend on DACA, but on my own determination and effort. Now, I'm helping undocumented students build their futures through PREPARE.

Juan Maya Hernandez

CEO & Founder

Core Values

Self-Reliance

Empowering students to take control of their future.

Entrepreneurial Spirit

Turning obstacles into opportunities.

Community

Building a supportive network of like-minded entrepreneurs.

Inclusive Future

Believing that self-employment will lead to more inclusive job opportunities for all.