Ernesto Morales is the visionary CEO of North Star Alliances, a pioneering firm in Los Angeles known for its expertise in community engagement and strategic partnerships. With a rich background in business development, Morales has successfully steered his company to manage over 1,100 projects for eminent clients like Google, The White House, and Coca-Cola. Holding an MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Pepperdine University, he has held key positions at notable organizations before founding North Star Alliances. His dedication extends beyond business, serving as a State Commissioner to the California Employment Training Panel and a Board Member of the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation. Morales is committed to using strategic leadership to foster economic empowerment and community development, making lasting impacts on the communities he serves.
How did you get started in this business?
I was inspired to start North Star Alliances after seeing a significant need for strategic partnerships and community engagement that produced tangible results. My background in business development and corporate relations at various organizations allowed me to see the gaps in how companies engage with communities and I wanted to address these more effectively.
How do you make money?
North Star Alliances makes money by providing consultancy services in community engagement and strategic partnership development. We work with clients ranging from large corporations to governmental bodies, helping them to build and implement strategies that enhance their engagement with local communities and stakeholders.
How long did it take for you to become profitable?
It took about two years for North Star Alliances to become profitable. The initial phase involved a lot of groundwork setting up the firm, developing a client base, and fine-tuning our service offerings to meet the specific needs of our clients.
When you were starting out, was there ever a time you doubted it would work?
Absolutely, there were moments of doubt in the early stages. The challenge of establishing a new firm in the competitive landscape of strategic consulting was daunting, but my belief in the importance of our mission kept me driven.
How did you get your first customer?
Our first customer came through networking within my professional circle. I leveraged relationships from my previous roles and shared our vision for how North Star Alliances could add value to their operations. This initial project set a strong foundation for referrals and new opportunities.
What is one marketing strategy that works well to generate new business?
One effective strategy has been content marketing combined with networking events. Sharing insights and success stories through various media platforms has helped establish our expertise, while personal connections made at events solidify our reputation and often lead to collaborations.
What is the toughest decision you’ve had to make in the last few months?
The toughest decision was to pivot some of our service strategies in response to the changing economic climate. We had to assess which services were most essential to our clients during this time and reallocate resources to focus on those areas.
What do you think makes you successful?
I believe my success comes from a relentless focus on building genuine relationships and always aiming to exceed client expectations. Our firm’s dedication to truly understanding and meeting the needs of our clients and their communities sets us apart.
What has been your most satisfying moment in business?
A particularly satisfying moment was seeing a community project we facilitated come to fruition, which brought significant improvements to local infrastructure and job opportunities. Knowing that our work had a direct, positive impact on many lives was immensely rewarding.
What does the future hold for your business?
The future for North Star Alliances involves expanding our reach into new regions and sectors, continuing to innovate our strategies, and constantly seeking new ways to create impactful community engagement that drives economic development.
What business books have inspired you?
One book that has been particularly inspiring for me is “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. It provides deep insights into what differentiates top-performing companies from the rest, especially the concept of getting the right people on the bus, which has influenced how I build and develop my team.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to embrace every challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to take calculated risks and always keep your core values in mind in every decision you make.
Are you willing to be a mentor?
Yes, absolutely. I am passionate about mentoring young entrepreneurs and leaders, especially those looking to make a social impact through their work. Sharing my experiences and guiding others in their journey is not just a responsibility but a privilege.