Mar 25, 2026

How One Loan Helped Launch an Academic Publishing House

Jorge L. understands that knowledge is only powerful when it’s applied. That conviction became the foundation of Sophia Editions: an academic publishing company he launched in 2024.

Jorge’s vision was clear: publish and disseminate scientific research from scholars across the globe in both Spanish and English, expanding access to knowledge across languages and communities. With an $8,000 loan from HIAS Economic Advancement Fund (EAF), that vision became a business.

EAF’s support went beyond capital. With consistent coaching and technical assistance, Jorge grew in ways he hadn’t anticipated. He had to rely on staff for business strategy and language support when he was getting started. But over time, he built confidence in his English, sharpened his business instincts, and began creating partnerships with universities on his own terms.

The results speak for themselves. Sales have grown by 30 percent, and Jorge has now transitioned to working full-time in his business. He’s even expanded internationally — all while continuing to grow his team and open doors for emerging authors.

“Our goal is to help authors share knowledge that creates real impact,” he says.

With the right support, Jorge didn’t just build a company. He built a platform for scholars whose voices the world deserves to hear.