Today we’d like to introduce you to Matt Houston.
Hi Matt, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I’m a product of my community, a DISD student pre-K-12, and graduate. I received both my undergraduate and graduate degrees locally as well (B.A. in Economics from Southern Methodist University and M.B.A. from Texas Christian University). My purpose in staying local has always been to be a home-grown North Texas leader with an impactful role in its next phase of growth & development. My goal is to improve development systems through the inclusion of community-based small businesses and cultivating an educated, diversified workforce.
I entered entrepreneurship at the age of 13 when my dad had me start a lawn care service company as a way of earning my own allowance. Since then, I’ve had a fascination with starting businesses. I was involved in a start-up company in college that we sold in 2012. Every company I create involves enhancing people’s dream or equipping them for success.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
For me, life is all about perspective. It provides us all with challenges and trials, twists and turns. Your mindset, preparation, and your actions determine how “smooth” your path can or cannot be.
As an entrepreneur, I face a lot of the challenges that occur in the marketplace; cash flow variances, talent management, and maintaining or establishing a work/life balance are constant challenges of mine. It’s always difficult to find funding and people willing to take a risk on you. There are also challenges navigating some of the existing exclusionary infrastructural policies and practices that were not designed for the empowerment of the residents.
We’ve been impressed with Collaborative Culture LLC., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I created my company Collaborative Culture LLC to bridge developers, community members, and public officials for a more inclusive infrastructure-building process.
Collaborative Culture LLC is a firm that provides economic development consulting for master planning as well as bridging community and corporate relations. We aspire to build programs to equip business owners and communities towards personal resilience.
What are your plans for the future?
I plan on being the most present father and husband to my family while building the Collaborative Culture LLC. brand across the country. By providing services to companies, organizations, and community groups who historically don’t work together, I feel the company’s brand will be a shining light in building our culture.
I’m looking forward in seeing how Gen Z and Gen C will innovate our society and would like to be an active member of positive change.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.collaborativeculturellc.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/mrmatthouston
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrmatthouston
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCldAbXltjgi0y1fLucJTlBA
