Mission EDC Relaunches Ruby Red Ventures Grant Program

News Summary

The Mission Economic Development Corporation has relaunched the Ruby Red Ventures Grant Program, offering up to $25,000 in funding to local entrepreneurs. Participants must complete the Kauffman FastTrac program, starting from May 6, to be eligible. There are significant opportunities to boost local businesses in Mission, with the total prize pool reaching $50,000. Info sessions and additional grants for established businesses are also part of the initiative, aimed at fostering economic growth in the community.

Exciting Opportunities for Entrepreneurs in Mission, Texas!

Hey there, Mission! Great news for all budding and established entrepreneurs in your vibrant city—the Mission Economic Development Corporation (Mission EDC) is back with the relaunch of the Ruby Red Ventures Grant Program! This fantastic initiative aims to boost economic growth and innovation among local business owners, and it comes with some serious prize money.

What’s Up for Grabs? Prizes and Possibilities!

Here’s the scoop: Participants in the Ruby Red Ventures competition now have the chance to snag up to $25,000 in seed funding, with a total prize pool hitting a whopping $50,000. Yes, you heard that right! Last year, this program awarded over $1.1 million to hard-working Mission entrepreneurs who are making waves in the community.

To get in on this opportunity, aspiring contestants must dive into the Kauffman FastTrac program. This six-week entrepreneurial course is offered through a partnership with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) and is designed to equip you with all the essential skills to refine that brilliant business idea of yours.

Mark Your Calendar!

The Kauffman FastTrac program kicks off from May 6 and runs until June 10, with classes scheduled every Tuesday from 4-7 p.m.. Classes will be held at the CEED Building, located at 801 N. Bryan Road, Mission, TX 78572. You don’t want to miss this opportunity to polish those business plans!

If you’re thinking, “How do I get involved?” well, the application process for the Kauffman FastTrac program opened on March 25 and will close on April 25. Keep your eyes peeled for notifications on May 1; that could be the start of something big!

Public Information Sessions to Help You Out!

For those with questions or looking for guidance on how to navigate the application process, don’t worry! Mission EDC is hosting two public information sessions. These will take place at 6 p.m. at the CEED Building, giving you a perfect chance to connect with the team and clarify your queries.

The Director of Programs and Strategic Partnerships at Mission EDC encourages anyone with a budding business idea or an early-stage enterprise to throw their hat in the ring!

Grants for Established Businesses Too!

But that’s not all—if you’ve been operating your small business for at least two years and are in good standing, you could also qualify for the Ruby Red Ventures Build Mission Fund Grant. This program offers up to $15,000 in funding, which can be used for everything from operation sustainability to facility improvements and even job retention or creation.

Last year, this initiative supported 15 entrepreneurs and helped create 18 new jobs in the area, propelling revenues to new heights! One highlight includes the success story of Taqueria Oviedo, which saw sales surge by 20% after receiving grant support for signage. Talk about a transformation!

Application Process and Further Information

So, if you’re interested in applying, mark your calendars—the application process for the Build Mission Fund Grant opened on October 1 and will run until November 1. Be sure to attend the informational sessions on October 8, October 15 (in-person), and October 9, October 16 (virtual), all starting at 6 p.m..

Ready to take that next step? Check out the online application portal at here, or you can also reach out directly to get more details and help along the way.

As Mission continues to thrive, these initiatives are a shining beacon of hope for local entrepreneurs looking to innovate and grow. This is your chance to be part of something special!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

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• Texas Border Business: A Celebration of Young Entrepreneurs in Mission, Texas
• Google Search: Small Business Funding
• Rio Grande Guardian: Applications Now Being Accepted for 2024 Ruby Red Ventures
• Google Scholar: Entrepreneurship Grant Programs
• Texas Border Business: Mission EDC Offers $200K in Grant Funding
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
• Rio Grande Guardian: Mission EDC Announces Ruby Red Ventures Recipients
• Google News: Mission Texas Entrepreneurs