Manuel Betancur

Manuel Betancur Montoya, known as "Manolo," is the founder and CEO of Manolo’s Bakery, a purpose-driven brand in Charlotte, N.C., established in 1997. Originally from El Carmen de Viboral, Antioquia, Colombia, Manolo is an engineer, a former officer in the Colombian Navy and a small business owner with over 27 years of baking experience. He is a second-degree black belt in karate and a fourth-degree black belt in taekwondo.

Manolo is also a proud father, immigrant, and advocate for his community. He graduated from King University with a degree in modern languages and completed a business entrepreneurship program at Stanford University. His ventures include Manolo’s Bakery, Artisen Vegelato, Higher Grounds Café, By Immigrant Hands and the nonprofit We Care 4.

Manolo’s Bakery is celebrated for its mission: "We Are Our Bread, We Stand for Our People, We Believe in Our Future." It offers over 65 varieties of Latin artisan breads and has earned numerous accolades, including the World Hero USA Award in 2021. During the pandemic, Manolo partnered with World Central Kitchen to provide hot meals for low-income families, and in recent years he has been delivering humanitarian aid in Ukraine through The We Care Initiative. Manolo’s latest endeavor, Higher Grounds Café, operates within Myers Park United Methodist Church, focusing on community outreach through non-profit Colombian coffee and artisanal treats.

Manolo’s recent achievements include recognition as "Best Bakery" in Charlotte and as "Best in the Nest 2024" by Queen City Nerve. He is also a 2024 member of the National Small Business Association's Leadership Council.