THIS WEEK
Good volunteers can help an organization for a day. The real goal is building lasting involvement and engagement!
On Tuesday, September 22, AFP Coastal Bend will host Lunch & Learn: Engaging Volunteers and Building Bonds that Last at the eBridge Center. The workshop will explore the volunteer ownership cycle, moving through ownership, involvement, engagement, and awareness, with a focus on building sustainable participation over time.
The session runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is available in person or virtually. Lunch is provided for in-person attendees, and the event has been approved for CFRE credit.
Participation is complimentary thanks to support from BCIC.
VENTURE FEST IS COMING
On October 1, founders, investors, business leaders, and entrepreneurship organizations across Texas will gather simultaneously for Texas Venture Fest, and the Rio Grande Valley edition is happening right here at the eBridge Center in Downtown Brownsville.
Texas Venture Fest brings together the people building and supporting companies across the state. Last year, the statewide event connected 3,500+ Texans, with programming centered on entrepreneurship, investment, and the organizations helping founders grow.
Registration is open now. Organizations that want a larger role in the event can also explore sponsorship opportunities for the RGV gathering.
APPLICATIONS OPEN
BIG LIFT applications are now open for businesses in Brownsville City Commission District 2.
Eligible locally owned small businesses can receive reimbursement for 80% of approved exterior improvement costs, up to $30,000. Projects can include façades, signage, exterior lighting, parking improvements, landscaping, windows, awnings, outdoor seating, and more.
The District 1 cycle showed a strong response, and District 2 applications remain open through October 9, 2026, so give yourself time to review the guidelines and prepare your application.
SHOWOFFS WELCOME
Built something cool? Bring it to Maker Faire Brownsville!
Applications are now open for makers, students, schools, clubs, nonprofits, tech teams, and anyone with a project worth putting in front of a crowd during Space Fest 2026.
They’re looking for projects in space and aerospace, robotics, coding, environmental science, hands-on STEM, and plenty more. Interactive exhibits are especially encouraged, so if people can see it, test it, build with it, or learn from it, even better.
Maker Faire Brownsville will take place during Space Fest, September 24 through 26, 2026, at the George Ramirez Performing Arts Academy.
This is your chance to show Brownsville what you made. Applications are open now.
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