[Video] Founder Claudia Muñoz-Nájar Shares Insights from the Closure of Build Más

The Journey of Claudia Muñoz-Nájar: Innovating for Spanish-Speaking Contractors

A Vision Born from Experience

Claudia Muñoz-Nájar is not just another entrepreneur; she is a trailblazer who has navigated the complexities of business across two countries. Originally from Lima, Peru, Claudia moved to Omaha, Nebraska, in 2021, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a vision to empower Spanish-speaking contractors. Her latest venture, Build Más, was born out of a deep understanding of the challenges these contractors face daily.

The Birth of Build Más

In November 2023, Claudia co-founded Build Más, a bilingual app designed specifically for Spanish-speaking contractors. The app was a game-changer, allowing users to manage their businesses in their native language. One of its standout features was the ability to translate essential documents—like estimates and invoices—into English, facilitating smoother communication with clients who may not speak Spanish. This innovative approach not only streamlined operations but also fostered inclusivity in an industry often dominated by language barriers.

Identifying a Gap in the Market

Claudia’s journey into entrepreneurship was fueled by her firsthand experiences. Upon moving to the U.S., she quickly recognized the day-to-day struggles that Spanish-speaking contractors faced, particularly in business operations and client interactions. Despite the growing number of apps available for contractors, none specifically catered to this demographic. This realization sparked her determination to create a solution that would empower these professionals and enhance their business capabilities.

Achievements and Recognition

Claudia’s hard work did not go unnoticed. She was accepted into the prestigious NMotion fall 2024 cohort, a program designed to support startups with mentorship and resources. Additionally, she secured funding through the Nebraska Innovation Fund Prototype Grant, which provided crucial financial backing to develop Build Más further. With a dedicated team, Claudia successfully built a product that not only attracted paying customers but also achieved product-market fit—a significant milestone for any startup.

The Tough Decision to Close

Despite the promising start and initial success, Build Más faced challenges that ultimately led to its closure in March 2026. Claudia sat down with Silicon Prairie News to discuss the factors that influenced her decision. It was a moment of reflection, where she shared the complexities of running a startup and the realities that many entrepreneurs face.

Lessons Learned Along the Way

In her candid conversation, Claudia offered valuable insights for aspiring founders. She emphasized the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of setbacks. The entrepreneurial journey is often fraught with unexpected twists, and being prepared to pivot or reassess your strategy is crucial. Claudia also highlighted the significance of understanding your target market deeply, as this knowledge can guide product development and marketing strategies.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those just starting their entrepreneurial journey, Claudia’s advice is straightforward yet profound: listen to your customers. Engaging with your target audience can provide invaluable feedback that shapes your product and business model. Additionally, she encourages new founders to build a strong support network, as collaboration and mentorship can be instrumental in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship.

A Legacy of Empowerment

Claudia Muñoz-Nájar’s story is one of innovation, resilience, and a commitment to empowering others. Through Build Más, she not only addressed a significant gap in the market but also inspired a community of Spanish-speaking contractors to thrive in their businesses. Her journey serves as a reminder that entrepreneurship is not just about building a company; it’s about creating solutions that make a difference in people’s lives.

As Claudia moves forward, her experiences will undoubtedly continue to influence her future endeavors, paving the way for more innovative solutions in the entrepreneurial landscape.