The premier Rio Grande Valley Startup Week is poised to launch in Brownsville, ushering in an era of entrepreneurial spirit and innovation. This significant event, set to commence on Friday, promises a lineup of esteemed sponsors and speakers from prominent Texas cities including Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, and Austin, as well as local representation from the Valley. The event is meticulously planned with a series of bilingual business workshops, informative presentations, and networking opportunities, all catered to both burgeoning and established entrepreneurs from the border region.
Accessibility is key to this event, with no charge for admission and meals provided, ensuring that all participants can fully engage with the offerings.
The eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization will host the opening ‘boot camp’ for start-up businesses from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, while Market Square will be the venue for Registration Pack Pickup, coinciding with the local First Friday downtown festivities, from 7 to 10:30 p.m.
The boot camp, a subsequent pitch showcase, a Wellness Day, and other engaging activities will span the weekend. For a detailed itinerary of all events through May 10, attendees are encouraged to visit the official website. The eBridge Center will also serve as the hub for several cornerstone events scheduled for the following week.
A highlight of the week will be an address by David Fonseca, the entrepreneurial force behind Jockey Ventures and former head of Velocity.TX, marking the week’s commencement. Additionally, a ‘fireside chat’ featuring RGV Partnership’s Daniel Silva and Adam Gonzalez of the Center for South Texas Economic Progress is scheduled.
An important announcement is anticipated regarding a new alliance between eBridge and the San Antonio-based investor collective Alamo Angels, who are extending their reach into the Valley. The Startup Texas Quality of Life Ventures Competition is another key event taking place within the week.
Significant discussions such as ‘Empowerment Across Borders: A Binational Women’s Panel,’ and Mayor John Cowen’s ‘State of the City’ presentation are among the many enlightening sessions planned.
Perspectives on community-building in Texas will be shared by renowned speakers like Jasmin Brand, Natalie Garza, Connie Leon, and TK Tunchez. The week will also feature an open house at eBridge, allowing participants to explore the center’s offerings each day.
With over 60 sessions and in excess of 80 hours of content, Nathan Burkhart, a leading figure at the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation/eBridge Center, describes the event as a haven for educational and interactive experiences that provide tangible resources to attendees. He emphasizes that this inaugural gathering is a landmark for the region, promoting widespread participation and the development of a vibrant culture of innovation and cooperation.
For those interested in attending, the complete schedule is available on the official event website.
