Gloria Viscasillas earns GEN Rookie Award for work with Echar Pa’lante
Gloria Viscasillas, chief executive of Echar Pa’lante, was awarded the GEN Rookie Award at the 2025 GEN Compass Awards, held during the Global Entrepreneurship Congress in Indianapolis. The honor, presented by the Global Entrepreneurship Network, recognizes new members who have made notable contributions to building entrepreneurial culture in their communities.
Viscasillas was selected from among finalists from Canada, South Africa, Bolivia and the United Kingdom, all recognized for their efforts in strengthening startup ecosystems. Her leadership has been central to Puerto Rico’s entrepreneurial development, as she guided Echar Pa’lante’s evolution from a Banco Popular initiative into an independent nonprofit foundation.
“Her work has empowered a multigenerational movement for economic transformation in Puerto Rico,” GEN said in a statement.
Viscasillas has more than 40 years of experience in business intelligence and market research in 27 countries. She has held executive roles at Procter & Gamble, Clorox International and Verizon. She also teaches at the University of Puerto Rico and has developed communications programs at Universidad del Sagrado Corazón, which recently awarded her an honorary doctorate in business.
Under her leadership, Echar Pa’lante has launched a national Mentor Corps, established certifications in business mentoring, and worked with institutions including MIT, Georgia Tech and Arizona State University. Its digital learning platform supports skills in entrepreneurship, resilience and sustainability.
Congratulations Gloria!