THIS WEEK
DISTRICT 3, YOU’RE UP NEXT!
43 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.
THE NUMBERS ARE IN
Brownsville visitors made 8.2% fewer trips this summer, but spent 18.9% more.
That’s one of the biggest findings in the latest issue of DRIP, BCIC’s quarterly Data Report, Insights & Projections.
And there’s plenty more to dig into. Discount and dollar stores are gaining ground, El Pato saw the biggest increase in visits among the metro’s busiest restaurant brands, and Houston continues to send more visitors to Brownsville than any other outside market.
The report also breaks down activity across all four City Commission districts, tracks more than 120 development projects, and looks at what these trends could mean heading into the holidays.
Curious what else the numbers are telling us? Read DRIP No. 2 for the full picture.
INVESTED IN OUR FUTURE
The next generation of Rio Grande Valley educators deserves our attention, and Teach For America RGV is bringing people together to talk about just that.
Invested in Our Future: Showing Up for the Next Generation of Leaders in Education takes place Thursday, October 22, at 6:00 p.m. at the eBridge Center in Downtown Brownsville.
Hosted by the Teach For America RGV Regional Advisory Board, the evening will bring guests together for conversation and connections around the future of education in our region, with refreshments provided.
HEART TO HEART
BCIC is proud to be a Summit Sponsor of the 2nd Annual Latinx Voces Health Summit, happening October 21–23 in Brownsville!
This year’s theme, “El Corazón: Bridging Health & Culture,” brings attention to the relationship between culture, community, and health, with conversations focused on improving health and wellness in Latino communities.
We’re glad to support an event bringing these important conversations on health to Brownsville.
READY FOR MORE?
When customers start asking why you’re not open more often, you might be ready for your next stage of growth.
That’s where the eBridge Fund can help. BCIC’s small business loan program offers $15,000 to $50,000 in fixed-rate financing for eligible brick-and-mortar businesses in Cameron County.
Looking to expand your space? Interested in purchasing more equipment? Trying to level up your day-to-day operations? Our revolving loan fund can help you put those plans into action.
Thinking about your next move? Explore the program, check your eligibility, and see what financing could look like for your business with our payment calculator.
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