Ana Sandoval Appointed as ESTAR West CEO

The former San Antonio councilwoman will lead the organization following its transition to nonprofit status.

Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in People

Isometric editorial illustration of a clean, minimalist housing development scale model in muted tones of oxblood, mustard, and slate blue. — Ana Sandoval has been named the first president and CEO of ESTAR West, a nonprofit organization managing federal housing and entrepreneurship funds. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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ESTAR West has named Ana Sandoval its first president and CEO. The organization, which originated as an informal coalition in 2022, recently secured nonprofit status to better manage its regional initiatives.

Why it matters

The appointment provides formal leadership as the organization scales its operations. Sandoval will oversee efforts to manage federal housing funds and entrepreneurship programs previously established by the group.

The organization manages $2 million in federal housing funds. ESTAR West evolved from an initial coalition of more than 40 community groups.

The players

Ana Sandoval

She is the first president and CEO of ESTAR West and previously served as a San Antonio councilwoman.

ESTAR West

This nonprofit organization manages entrepreneurship and housing initiatives in San Antonio.

The details

Sandoval, who served on the San Antonio City Council from 2017 through 2023, was chosen to lead the nonprofit as it seeks to provide structure for future growth. The group currently operates entrepreneurship programs at the University of Texas at San Antonio and manages the Supply SA initiative.

ESTAR West launched as an informal coalition in 2022.
Ana Sandoval served as a San Antonio councilwoman from 2017 through 2023.
Ana Sandoval stepped down from City Council in January 2023.
ESTAR West received nonprofit status in summer 2026.
Sandoval plans to hire two employees by the end of 2026.

Market Landscape

The organization's mission follows the pattern set by efforts to bolster small businesses and local economies impacted by the post-COVID-19 pandemic economic recovery initiatives. This formalization marks a shift from grassroots coalition to a structured institutional player in the city.

Residents can expect more structured support for local entrepreneurship programs and housing initiatives under the new leadership. These changes may impact how federal funds are deployed to support businesses in the San Antonio area.

The takeaway

The move from a loose coalition to a formal nonprofit indicates a maturing organizational strategy in San Antonio. Residents should look for the upcoming development study to understand future shifts in local urban displacement.