THIS WEEK
DISTRICT 3, YOU’RE UP NEXT!
36 days until BIG LIFT applications open for District 3!
Beginning December 1, 2026, eligible locally owned small businesses in Brownsville City Commission District 3 can apply for reimbursement of 80% of approved exterior improvement costs, up to $30,000.
From storefront façades and signage to lighting, landscaping, and parking improvements, BIG LIFT helps businesses invest in their properties. Applications will remain open through January 15, 2027.
Not sure which district your business is in? Now’s a good time to find out, review the program guidelines, and start planning your project.
A note for Downtown properties: BIG Downtown has its own improvement grant program. If your property falls within its boundaries, you’ll want to explore BIG Downtown instead of BIG LIFT.
BEING A GOOD NEIGHBOR
A good neighbor can make quite a difference. Just ask the folks at Good Neighbor Settlement House.
The longtime Brownsville nonprofit has been helping local families since 1953, and the numbers behind its work tell quite a story: 19,173 meals served, 2,862 families assisted through its food pantry, and seven people newly housed in just the third quarter of 2026.
And there’s something new to appreciate at Good Neighbor! With support from BCIC, the Brownsville Foundation for Health and Education, and a private donor, the organization recently completed a major renovation of its gazebo, one of its most-used spaces.
The expanded gazebo now offers more shade, improved lighting, misting fans, and protection from the weather, giving clients a more comfortable place to enjoy meals, rest between services, and meet with staff.
Want to see what Good Neighbor has been up to? Take a look at the work they’re doing for Brownsville.
IT STARTS WITH A PLAN
What should housing in Brownsville look like ten years from now? The City wants to hear your answer!
Brownsville is developing its first citywide Housing Master Plan, examining housing affordability, neighborhood needs, future demand, and opportunities to make housing more accessible to residents.
And this Thursday, October 29, the City is inviting residents to review its draft recommendations at a Housing Plan Community Open House, happening 5:00–7:00 p.m. at the Brownsville Golf Center.
Have something to say about housing in Brownsville? Make sure your perspective is part of the conversation.
GEW RETURNS TO THE RGV
Calling all entrepreneurs and people with an idea they just can’t shake! Mark your calendars for November 16–22.
Global Entrepreneurship Week is coming up, bringing entrepreneurs and business communities around the world together for a week of new connections along with opportunities and education meant to help you turn ideas into businesses.
Here in Brownsville, we’re looking forward to celebrating the people starting businesses, taking chances on new ideas, and finding ways to grow.
We’re working on the lineup, so stay tuned. In the meantime, save the date!
MORE FROM BCIC
BCIC’s 5-Year Roadmap is Live
Our BCIC 2025-2029 Strategic Plan is based on your input about what Brownsville needs most: quality of life upgrades, business support, downtown revival, and opportunities that keep talent home. View it here.
BIG Downtown Business Grants
Revitalize downtown Brownsville! If you’re a property owner or tenant, the BIG Program offers matching grants to support your commercial renovations. Make a difference in the heart of our city: brownsvillecic.com/big
Business Financing
Access funding designed for Brownsville entrepreneurs and small businesses. The eBridge Fund provides accessible financing options for those unable to secure traditional loans or seeking better rates. Get started here: ebridgefund.com