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RGVHCC Café y Pan Dulce - Casa De Palmas
2024-02-21 08:00 - 09:30 (America/Chicago) | Casa de Palmas Hotel, 101 North Main Street, McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Members and guests can join the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce morning at the chamber’s “Café y Pan Dulce” Mixer on Feb. 21. The event includes coffee, sweet pan dulce and connections.
Morning Mixers are not just networking events – they’re a chance for businesses to open their doors to chamber investors, showcasing the unique charm of their establishments. The event is an opportunity to meet and greet fellow investors, discover new business prospects and enjoy the camaraderie of the RGVHCC community.

Register online.

Exploring Your Market
2024-02-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Rio Grande City Public Library, 591 E. Canales Street, Rio Grande City, TX, 78582, United States
Who are your potential customers?
Before launching or growing a business, it is important to identify your target market and new market segments. For example, is there a demand or growing demand for your product or service? Who is buying or selling something similar? All these questions and more must be studied to make key business decisions in your small business.
Learn about the following, plus more:

The importance of Market Research
Tools to conduct Market Research
Small businesses & their target markets
Relevant industry trends and what they mean
Competitors & how small businesses compare
Quantifying Market Research for business decisions

This in-person session is presented by the UTRGV SBDC and hosted by the Rio Grande City Economic Development Corporation, Rio Grande City Greater Chamber of Commerce, Rio Grande City Public Library, RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and Starr County Industrial Foundation.

7th Annual Resaca City Bike Tour
2024-02-17 07:00 - 16:00 | Heavin Park, Heavin Park, San Benito, 78586, United States
Join the San Benito Chamber of Commerce for the seventh annual “Resaca City Bike Tour” on Feb. 17 at Heavin Resaca Trail. Rides include a 20-mile, 40.4-mile and 62.2-mile ride. T-shirts will be given to the first 100 registrants and medals will be given to all participants.
Early bird registration is $35. There is also a veteran discount of $25 registration.
The core purpose of the San Benito Chamber of Commerce is to foster, enable and facilitate the success of local businesses, so the community is financially healthy and all the people living, working and playing in San Benito can enjoy a high quality of life.
Register online.

Cemetery Birding in Texas
2024-02-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen, TX, 78503, United States
Jennifer Bristol
Get to know the author of “Cemetery Birding: An Unexpected Guide to Discovering Birds in Texas” at Quinta Mazatlán on Feb. 15. The Thursday Night Speaker Series features Jennifer Bristol as she introduces cemeteries as accessible places to bird watch. She will also highlight locations across every ecoregion of Texas.
Bristol is a conservationist, environmentalist and author whose connection and love for nature has led her career. Before nurturing four book projects, which each celebrate the story of nature and the human effort to conserve ecosystems overtime, Bristol worked as a resource manager at Bastrop State Park and director of Texas of Children in Nature network at Texas Parks and Wildlife. She has also served on the Environmental Commission for the City of Austin.
Additionally, Bristol has served on national and local boards and advisory teams for 25 years. She stepped away from her job at Texas Parks and Wildlife in 2019 to focus on writing, and in April of 2020, her first book “Parking Lot Birding: A Fun Guide to Discovering Birds in Texas,” was published. In August 2023, “Cemetery Birding: An Unexpected Guide to Discovering Birds in Texas” was released and featured at the annual Texas Book Festival.
Pre-purchased tickets are available at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com. Tickets are $5 per person. For more information, contact Quinta Mazatlán.

Buenas Tardes Luncheon - Community Leader Spotlight
2024-02-15 11:00 - 13:30 | Mission Event Center, 200 South Shary Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
Join the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce on Feb. 15 for another ‘Buenas Tardes Luncheon’ to hear insights from Industry Training and Economic Development experts at the Mission EDC, South Texas College and local businesses.
Leading the conversation is Senior VP & Director of Business Development at Lone Star National Bank and former Texas Workforce Commissioner Julian Alvarez.
For more information, contact the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce via phone or email candace@missionchamber.com.

Boots to Business Reboot Training
2024-02-15 08:00 - 17:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Veterans bring unique skills, adaptability and problem-solving abilities to the business world, polished during military service. However, veterans face entrepreneurial start-up and growth challenges like all small business owners. To minimize those hurdles, the SBA offers support via our Boots to Business Reboot program (B2B Reboot).
B2B Reboot on Feb. 15 is an entrepreneurial education and training program offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration. The course provides an overview of entrepreneurship and applicable business ownership fundamentals.
What participants will learn:

Introduction to Business Ownership
The Basics of Opportunity Recognition
Understanding Markets & Competitive Space
The Economics of Small Business Start-Up
Legal Considerations for Veteran-Owned Small Business
Introduction to Business Planning
Access to Capital and Financing
Support Resources

Veterans of all eras, Active-Duty Service members (including National Guard and Reserve) and spouses are eligible to participate.
Seating is limited so follow the following steps:
Register online.
Contact UTRGV VBOC at 956-665-8931 or vboc@utrgv.edu to confirm class registration.

The Importance of a Business Plan - Let’s Talk Business Series 2024
2024-02-09 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
“The Importance of a Business Plan,” presented by UTRGV Small Business Development Center on Feb. 9, provides information on the power of business planning and why it’s important to prepare a business plan.
A good business plan guides you through each stage of starting and managing your business. You’ll use your business plan as a roadmap for how to structure, run and grow your new business. It’s a way to think through the key elements of your business.
Business plans can help you get funding or bring on new business partners. Investors want to feel confident they’ll see a return on their investment.
A sound business plan will:

Define and focus on your business objective
Be an essential part of the loan application process
Be used to obtain advice from experts
Uncover omissions and/or weaknesses in the business idea & planning process
The key components of a business plan

Register online.
About the Series – Organized by the SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office
Introducing the “Let’s Talk Business Series”, a 12-part program connecting entrepreneurs with federal, state, and local small business resources.  Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or want to grow your business, this series presents essential business topics, provides a forum for networking, and promotes success in today’s dynamic business environment.  Participants may attend one, two, six, or all sessions.

Weslaco Networking Lunch Mob
2024-02-07 11:30 - 13:00 | Blue Onion Weslaco, 423 S International Blvd., Weslaco, TX, United States
Join the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce for its monthly networking lunch mob at The Blue Onion Weslaco on May 7. Meet someone new and enjoy an opportunity to support local. Each participant pays for his/her own lunch.
Free to members, $5 for non-members.
RSVP online.

Weslaco Networking Lunch Mob
2024-02-07 11:30 - 13:00 | Los Primos SAGA, 3300 Rodeo Drive, Weslaco, United States
Join the Weslaco Chamber of Commerce for its monthly networking lunch mob at Los Primos SAGA on Feb. 7. Meet someone new and enjoy an opportunity to support local.
Free to members, $5 for non-members.
RSVP online.

Women Empowering Women: Dr. Candi Constantine-Castillo
2024-02-01 12:00 - 13:00
CEO of Harlingen Medical Center, Dr. Candi Constantine-Castillo, shares her journey during the Harlingen Chamber of Commerce’s Women Empowering Women luncheon on Feb. 1.
Lunch will be provided, RSVP before Jan. 31st at 5 p.m. Registration is $15 for chamber members, $20 for non-members.
RSVP by calling the chamber.

Café y Pan Dulce - South Texas Health System
2024-02-01 08:00 - 09:30 | South Texas Health System McAllen, 301 West Expy 83, McAllen, TX, United States
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to its “Café y Pan Dulce” Mixer on Feb. 1. The morning consists of coffee, sweet pan dulce and connections.
Morning Mixers are all about fostering connections, giving opportunities to meet and greet fellow investors, discover new business prospects and enjoy the warm camaraderie of the RGVHCC community.

Open to All RGVHCC members and guests. Whether you’re a seasoned member or a first-time guest, the chamber welcomes everyone to join this strategic business-to-business networking event.
Register online.

Texas Talks: A Luncheon with Comptroller Glenn Hegar – Navigating Fiscal Frontiers
2024-01-30 11:30 - 13:00 | Brownsville Events Center, 1 Events Center Blvd., Brownsville, TX, United States
The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce hosts “Texas Talks: A Luncheon with Comptroller Glenn Hegar – Navigating Fiscal Frontiers” on Jan. 30 at the Brownsville Events Center.
The luncheon features Texas State Comptroller Glenn Hegar and provides an opportunity to stay informed and network with like-minded individuals who share a passion for the growth and prosperity of the community.
Key Highlights:

Networking Opportunities: Connect with our local representatives, business leaders, and community members during the luncheon.
Luncheon: Enjoy a meal while fostering meaningful conversations.

This event is open to all individuals interested in attending. Whether you are a business owner, community advocate or concerned citizen, this luncheon provides a platform for collaboration and collective growth.
Single tickets are $50 with sponsorships available. RSVP in advance.

Sisters On The Run 2024
2024-01-27 07:00 - 11:00 | Brownsville Event Center, 1 Event Center, Brownsville, 78526, United States
Sisters on the Run takes place on Jan. 27 for all runners, from experienced to first-timers, with a fun run and 5K. The annual fundraising campaign supports Proyecto Juan Diego’s programs and services.
Sisters on the Run started as “The Running Nun” by Daughter of Charity, Sister Liz Sjoberg in 2018 when she signed up for the Chick-fil-A Half Marathon. Her goal was to raise funds and brand awareness for Proyecto Juan Diego. Her fundraiser generated quite a buzz among her friends and family throughout social media and at the race.
Register online.

Credits, Deductions and Taxes for your Business - Let's Talk Business Series
2024-01-26 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
While starting a business is an exciting venture, it can be overwhelming and daunting to navigate without proper planning, understanding and execution. Understanding your tax obligation is one key to business success. Knowing how to avoid tax mistakes is imperative to your business.
“Credits, Deductions and Taxes for your Business” on Jan. 26, presented by U.S. Internal Revenue Service, will help participants understand credits, taxes and deductions for their business.
Session Topics:

Figuring out if your business is subject to the self-employment tax, income tax or both.
The different forms of taxable and nontaxable income that come from money, property or services.
What you can and can’t deduct as a business expense
Business tax credits for your business

Register online.
For more info, contact Veronica Z. Ortega.
About the Series – Organized by the SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office
Introducing the “Let’s Talk Business Series”, a 12-part program connecting entrepreneurs with federal, state, and local small business resources.  Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or want to grow your business, this series presents essential business topics, provides a forum for networking, and promotes success in today’s dynamic business environment.  Participants may attend one, two, six, or all sessions.

SPI Lobo Del Mar Mixer
2024-01-25 17:00 | Lobo Del Mar, 204 West Palm Street, South Padre Island, United States
The South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce Island Ambassadors host a mixer at Lobo Del Mar Cafe on Jan. 25.
The evening includes hors d’oeuvres, soda and water, entertainment and a cash bar.

Get Ready to File in 2024
2024-01-25 14:00 - 16:00 | Hidalgo Economic Development Corporation, 900 South Bridge Street, Hidalgo, United States
On Jan. 25, “Get Ready to File in 2024” will provide the information small business owners need to get ready to file in 2024.
Session highlights:

Changes affecting small businesses for 2024 tax season
Organizing and checking your records
Listing your tax deductions
Creating your tax calendar for 2024 for your business
Gathering and checking your tax forms
Prep with your accountant or tax professional

This in-person session is presented by CAS CPA, LLC and hosted by the UTRGV Small Business Development Center in partnership with Hidalgo Economic Development Corporation.
Register online.

SBDC Smart Start
2024-01-24 10:00 - 12:00 | Mission EDC, 801 Bryan Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
Do you have a business idea? Are you interested in starting your own business? Make plans to attend SBDC Smart Start on Jan. 24 in Mission.
This session will provide information and steps necessary for a smart start, plus get attendees ready for one-to-one, business advisement session for ongoing assistance.
Register online.

RGVHCC Annual Membership Meeting 2024
2024-01-23 17:30 - 19:30 | Fireman’s Pumphouse, 201 North 1st Street, McAllen, 78501, United States
The Rio Grande Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its annual membership meeting on Jan. 23, giving members a chance to network and discuss issues or concerns that affect their businesses such as transportation, health, immigration, taxes, education, etc.
In addition, major events for 2024 will be announced, the presentation of some By-Law changes and elections for new board members.
If you are interested, you must be a member in good standing and qualified in the position. Feel free to call the RGVHCC office to get a complete description of the position. A short letter of intent and bio is required to be submitted by no later than Jan. 21 to be eligible.
Register online.

The Challenge-RGV Kickoff!
2024-01-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Linear Park, Brownsville, TX, 78520, United States
The Challenge-RGV 2024 marks its 15th season beginning on Jan. 20 at the Brownsville Farmer’s Market, bringing another year of healthy successes to the Rio Grande Valley.
This free community wellness program is a collaboration between the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health in Brownsville, the City of Brownsville, regional municipalities, community partners and sponsors. This year brings the addition of the City of Edinburg, bringing an additional kick-off event as well as additional gym locations available to participants in the Upper Rio Grande Valley.
The Challenge-RGV provides people with the tools and opportunities to make sustainable healthy lifestyle changes and lose weight when appropriate. Over the course of three months, participants have free access to gyms, exercise classes, health screenings, cooking classes and fun runs/walks.
This year, organizers emphasize the importance of social support in overcoming obstacles and bringing mental health awareness with a theme of “interconnectedness.” Participants are encouraged to recruit their family, friends and colleagues to register as a group. Activities are free to the public, draw hundreds of families, and include significant media coverage through TV, radio, print and social media.
Online pre-registration is available.

Friday Informational Session - SBA Assistance to Small Business
2024-01-19 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Thinking about starting a small business, but have no idea where to start? Wondering if small business ownership is for you? Starting a business is an exciting proposition but it’s also an incredibly challenging undertaking.
Are you an existing business and is your business needing to grow? Are you needing working capital to expand? Have you considered business certifications or government contracting?
Join the SBA on Jan. 19 for “SBA Assistance to Small Business” to learn about the technical and financial resources available to help start and grow a small business.
For more information, contact Veronica Z. Ortega.
Register online.

Good Morning McAllen
2024-01-18 07:30 - 09:00 | Radisson Hotel McAllen Airport, 2721 South 10th Street, McAllen, TX, 78503, United States
Join the McAllen Chamber of Commerce at Good Morning McAllen on Jan. 18 and connect with new members, or reconnect with existing ones. Leading this breakfast will be hosts Jim Darling and Joe Brown. This month’s event is sponsored by Make-A-Wish.
Every chamber member is automatically entered to win $200 cash. Along with the cash drawing, there will be numerous door prizes. Registration is $25 per person, $300 per table of eight.

Lunch & Learn "Coloring the Leader Within"
2024-01-17 11:30 - 13:00 | Center for Education and Economic Development (CEED), 801 North Bryan Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce hosts guest speaker Sarah Hammond for “Coloring the Leader Within” during Lunch & Learn on Jan. 17.
Hammond will provide insights for improved communication, intentional leadership and enhanced team dynamics. Hammond is the president of Atlas Electrical, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration and Plumbing Services Inc.
This session and lunch are free for chamber members, $15 for non-members. Registration is required as spots are limited.
To register, email candace@missionchamber.com.

SBDC Smart Start
2024-01-16 14:00 - 16:00 | Harlingen Economic Development Corporation, 2424 Boxwood Street, Ste 125, Harlingen, 78550, United States
Do you have a business idea? Are you interested in starting your own business? Make plans to attend SBDC Smart Start on Jan. 16 in Harlingen.
This session will provide information and steps necessary for a smart start, plus get attendees ready for one-to-one, business advisement session for ongoing assistance.
Register online.

How to Really Start Your Own Business - Let's Talk Business Series
2024-01-12 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
SCORE RGV kicks off the “Let’s Talk Business Series” on Jan. 12 with “How to Really Start Your Own Business,” a session developed to help participants better understand small business ownership.
While starting a business is an exciting venture, it can be intimidating and overwhelming without proper planning, knowledge and execution.
If you’re considering starting a small business, this session will help you understand the process of getting started the confidence to move forward with your idea.
Session 1 Topics:

Myths and Realities of Entrepreneurship
Do you have what it takes?
Components of Business Ownership
Making it Legal
Business Plan Basics

Register online.
About the Series – Organized by the SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office
Introducing the “Let’s Talk Business Series,” a 12-part program connecting entrepreneurs with federal, state and local small business resources. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or want to grow your business, this series presents essential business topics, provides a forum for networking and promotes success in today’s dynamic business environment. Participants may attend one, two, six or all sessions.

Coffee & Conversation
2024-01-11 09:00 | Padre Island Brewing Company, 3400 Padre Blvd., South Padre Island, TX, 78597, United States
Join the South Padre Island Chamber of Commerce at Coffee & Conversation on Jan. 11 to hear about the services provided by Make-A-Wish Foundation from President/CEO Rebecca Ramirez Gearhart. Gearhart will also speak on how the public can help or participate when a request for a wish involves the community.

1 Million Cups
2024-01-10 09:00 - 10:00 | McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N Main Street, McAllen, TX, 78504, United States
One Million Cups takes place at the McAllen Creative Incubator on Jan. 10, providing a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and the community to gather and connect. Attendees can work through business challenges and identify opportunities.
This month, Frook will talk about their innovative app which allows you to find food trucks, and Grandma Cookie, a children’s book author who will discuss her books, stories and inspirations.
1MC is FREE and open to the public.

Brownsville Chamber Connect +
2024-01-09 14:00 - 15:00 | Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, 1600 University Blvd., Brownsville, TX, 78520, United States
Join the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce team on Jan. 9 for Chamber Connect + to learn more about what the chamber can do for you. The hour includes a deeper understanding of how the Brownsville Chamber can elevate your business and a refresher on membership benefits.
Chamber Connect + Covers:

History of the Chamber of Commerce in Brownsville:

Explore the rich legacy of the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, spanning 86 years, as a driving force for local businesses.
Understand how the Brownsville Chamber has been instrumental in shaping Brownsville’s economic landscape, fostering growth and creating a thriving business community.

Membership Benefits Overview:

Gain insight into the extensive array of exclusive advantages accessible to members, ranging from networking opportunities and marketing exposure to advocacy efforts.
Learn about specialized programs tailored to cater to diverse business needs, including workshops, seminars and access to valuable resources.

Maximizing Your Membership:

Discover practical strategies for making the most of your chamber membership, from leveraging networking events to accessing tailored resources for business growth.
Uncover tips on staying actively engaged with the chamber’s initiatives, committees and events to ensure a continuous flow of benefits and opportunities.

For more information, contact the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce.

EmpowHer Series: SBA Funding Options for Women Entrepreneurs
2024-01-09 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Ladies, are you looking to start a business, or expand your current business but need funding? The Small Business Administration works with approved lenders and community development organizations to offer SBA-guaranteed loans to help your businesses start, grow, expand and recover.
The SBA helps small businesses get funding by setting guidelines for loans and reducing lender risk. These SBA-backed loans make it easier for small businesses to get the funding they need.
The benefits of SBA-guaranteed loans include:

Competitive terms: SBA-guaranteed loans generally have rates and fees that are comparable to non-guaranteed loans.
Unique benefits: Lower down payments, flexible overhead requirements, and no collateral needed for some loans.
Counseling and education: Some loans come with continued support to help you start and run your business.

Workshop Topics:

Preparing for a Loan (the 5c’ of credit)
Microloans
7(a) Loan Guarantee, SBA’s most common loan program
504 Loans, long-term, fixed rate financing of up to $5 million for major fixed assets
SBA’s online tool, Lender Match (get matched with lenders)
SBA Disaster Loan Programs

Register online or contact Veronica Chavez.

Manic Monday Mixer
2024-01-08 17:30 - 19:30 | Suerte Bar & Grill, 2001 South 10th, McAllen, United States
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its Manic Monday Mixer on Jan. 8, providing an evening of mingling and creating new business leads. The Manic Monday Mixers have helped the RGVHCC members create many business contacts from throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Anyone donating a door prize gets an extra opportunity to talk about their business.
Register online.

Historical Happy Hour: Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest
2023-12-15 17:00 - 19:00 | Brownsville Heritage Museum, 1325 E. Washington Street, Brownsville, United States
The Brownsville Historical Association is having a party on Dec. 15 and things are going to get UGLY. Wear a Ho-Ho-Horrible Holiday sweater with a prize going to the person wearing the ugliest sweater.
BHA will also toast to the holidays with friends and good cheer. This month’s happy hour is sponsored by L&F Distributors. Attendees must be 21 years and older.
This event is free for BHA members, $15 if you RSVP and pay before the event, $20 at the door. No refunds.
For more information, call 956-541-5560.
