VBR

State of the City | Brownsville 2025: Edge of the Future
2025-03-26 16:30 - 20:30 (America/Chicago) | TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Avenue, Brownsville, TX, United States
Join Mayor John Cowen as he delivers his second annual State of the City Address “Brownsville 2025: Edge of the Future” on March 26. This event invites local businesses, community stakeholders, constituents and regional leaders to gather and celebrate the City of Brownsville’s accomplishments over the past year.
Event Details:
Registration & Networking: 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Program: 6-7 p.m.
Dinner: 7-8:30 p.m.
Brownsville Chamber member tickets are $50 per person, $100 per person with dinner. Non-member tickets are $55 per person, $110 per person with dinner.
For those unable to attend in person, the address will be livestreamed on the City of Brownsville’s YouTube channel, ensuring community-wide access.
Contact Astrid Rosales at membership@brownsvillechamber.com to explore the diverse sponsorship options available.
Register online.
For more information or assistance with the registration process, contact the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce office.

Latina Hope
2025-04-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Calvary Baptist Church, 1600 Harvey Drive, McAllen, 78501, United States
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce hosts its April session of Latina Hope on March 5. The competitive pitch program facilitates training, networking and micro business development for Spanish-speaking women.
The program offers business workshops, as well as specialized skill training in making candles, cards, jewelry, soaps, toys and wreaths. Latina Hope also offers classes in knitting/crocheting, quilting, sewing and alterations.
After attending the training, participants are given the opportunity to prepare and pitch a project plan for competition. The winner is awarded $250 in materials to support her micro business.
For more information, contact the McAllen Chamber.

AAF-RGV Lunch with Kathryn Lueders
2025-04-04 11:30 - 13:00 | Embassy Suites by Hilton, 800 Convention Center Blvd., McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Join the American Advertising Federation RGV for an exclusive lunch on April 4, featuring SpaceX Starbase General Manager Kathryn Lueders as she shares groundbreaking insights into Starship development, upcoming missions and the rapid expansion of SpaceX operations in Boca Chica.
Registration is $34 for AAF-RGV members, $45 for non-members.
Registration is required. Payment in full, in advance only.
Register online.

Pharr EDC Foundation’s 4th Annual Casino Night
2025-04-09 08:00 - 17:00 | The Regency Hall, 207 E. Ferguson Ave., Pharr, 78577, United States
Join the Pharr EDC Foundation for its fourth annual Casino Night on April 17. Experience an evening of gaming and entertainment while supporting the EDC’s mission to build brighter futures for recipients of the Pharr EDC Foundation’s Scholarship Program.
Sponsorship Opportunities and individual tickets available.
For more information, contact the Pharr EDC Foundation at 956-402-4332.

Business Contracting Certifications: Qualifications and Benefits for your Business
2025-04-11 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
The U.S. government is the largest customer in the world. It buys all types of products and services — in large and small quantities — and is required by law to consider buying from small businesses.
To expand the number of businesses capable of participating in the governmental marketplace, this April 11 session will provide you with an understanding of the requirements for government contracting and the know-how to obtain and perform federal, state and local government contracts.
Presented by the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley APEX Accelerator, this session will teach participants the importance of business certifications, how to qualify, and the business benefits.
Discover and Learn:

Understanding Government Contracting
Doing Business with the Federal Government
Doing Business with the State of Texas
Subcontracting
Do’s and Don’ts of Government Contracting
Q&A

For more information, contact Veronica Z. Ortega.
Register online.
This offering is part of 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.

41st Annual Causeway Run
2025-04-12 07:00 - 10:00 | Port Isabel Event and Cultural Center, 309 Railroad Street, Port Isabel, United States
The 41st Annual Causeway Run takes place April 12 for everyone from seasoned runners or those just looking for a fun way to stay active.
All 5K and 10K participants will have the opportunity to run/walk over the Queen Isabella Causeway.
Group discounts are available for teams of 10 or more.
Register online.

Sea Turtle Inc. Golf Classic
2025-04-14 | South Padre Island Golf Club, 1 Golf House Road, Laguna Vista, 78578, United States
The Sea Turtle Inc. Golf Classic on April 14 will directly support the mission, medical care and work at Sea Turtle Inc.
It is more than just a round of golf; you will be part of the legacy tournament with South Padre Island’s largest and most attended attraction.
Register your team online.

1 Million Cups
2025-04-16 09:00 - 10:00 | McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N Main Street, McAllen, TX, 78504, United States
Join the McAllen Chamber of Commerce on April 16 for its monthly installment of 1 Million Cups.
The local monthly offering is part of a free, national program designed to educate, engage and connect entrepreneurs. This program encourages entrepreneurs to discover solutions and network while sharing over a million cups of coffee.

Let’s Talk Business - Know the Facts: Fair Labor Standards Act
2025-04-25 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Let’s Talk Business
Owning a small business brings many responsibilities, including compliance with various federal labor and employment laws. Employers must comply with both federal and state laws. As a business owner, you have the responsibility to pay your employees properly, maintain certain records, adhere to certain requirements if you employ minors, provide eligible workers with unpaid family or medical leave, and notify your employees of their rights in the workplace.
“Know the Facts: Fair Labor Standards Act,” presented by the U.S. Department of Labor-Wage and Hour Division on April 25, teaches participants the importance of complying with rules and regulations covered under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Discover and Learn:

Policies under minimum wage, overtime provisions, and tip credit for “tipped employees”
Child labor provisions and employment regulations for youth dependent on the age and type of work being conducted
Who is eligible under the Family and Medical Leave Act, and what does it cover
Enforcement of Violations, who can report violations, and what happens next

Register online.
For more information, 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.

Fireside Chat with Vicente Fox | RGV Startup Week
2025-04-28 10:00 - 12:00 | TSC Performing Arts Center, 90 Taylor Avenue, Brownsville, TX, United States
Start your RGV Startup Week with a morning you won’t forget on April 28 — featuring a powerful fireside chat with Vicente Fox Quesada, former president of Mexico and a global voice for leadership, innovation and change.
In this insightful conversation, President Fox will share his experiences on resilience, leadership, and navigating political and economic uncertainty — especially relevant to entrepreneurs and changemakers working in border communities. His unique perspective offers both inspiration and practical insight for those building businesses in the Rio Grande Valley and beyond.
The conversation will be moderated by Berenice Garcia, Rio Grande Valley reporter for The Texas Tribune, and will spark thoughtful dialogue on how cross-border collaboration and innovation can thrive — even in the most challenging times.
Register online.

Third Annual CEO Shark Tank Competition
2025-05-02 08:00 - 13:00 | TSTC University Center, 2424 Boxwood Street, Harlingen, United States
Join the Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce on May 2 for an exciting evening as 11 Harlingen CISD students pitch their innovative business ideas in front of a live audience.
This event is free and open to the public, so come out and support the next generation of entrepreneurs in our community.

Legendary Women
2025-05-02 11:30 - 13:00 | McAllen Convention Center, 700 Convention Center Boulevard, McAllen, TX, United States
Join the McAllen Chamber of Commerce on May 2 as it celebrates the remarkable achievements of trailblazing women who have left an enduring impact on the community.
Register online.

Kentucky Derby at the Depot
2025-05-03 14:00 - 18:00 | Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, 602 W University Drive, Edinburg, TX, 78539, United States
Join the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce on May 3 for an unforgettable afternoon at the Kentucky Derby at the Depot. Held at the historic Southern Pacific Depot, this event promises Southern charm with delicious food & drinks by L&F Distributors.
Dress in your derby best for a chance to win in our Derby Hat Contest. All proceeds support your Edinburg Chamber of Commerce’s mission to empower local businesses.
Register online.

Mayor's Annual Evening of Prayer
2025-05-06 18:30 - 20:00 | Mission Event Center, 200 South Shary Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
Join the Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce and local ministries on May 9 for the Mayor’s Annual Evening of Prayer. Unite in faith and community during a powerful night of prayer and reflection in observance of the National Day of Prayer.
Light refreshments are provided, event is open to all. Come together in prayer for leaders, the city and the future.
Register online.

Latina Hope
2025-05-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Calvary Baptist Church, 1600 Harvey Drive, McAllen, 78501, United States
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce hosts its April session of Latina Hope on May 7. The competitive pitch program facilitates training, networking and micro business development for Spanish-speaking women.
The program offers business workshops, as well as specialized skill training in making candles, cards, jewelry, soaps, toys and wreaths. Latina Hope also offers classes in knitting/crocheting, quilting, sewing and alterations.
After attending the training, participants are given the opportunity to prepare and pitch a project plan for competition. The winner is awarded $250 in materials to support her micro business.
For more information, contact the McAllen Chamber.

GMCC Milestone Celebration
2025-05-07 16:00 - 18:00 | Mission Event Center, 200 South Shary Road, Mission, TX, 78572, United States
The Greater Mission Chamber of Commerce is now officially an Accredited Chamber of Commerce and will celebrate this milestone with the public on May 7.
Join the chamber for an afternoon of celebration, networking, and appreciation for the members and community that made this achievement possible.
RSVP online.

Noche De Gala 2025
2025-05-15 18:00 - 23:55 | Corinthians Event Center, 1516 E. Expressway 83, Mission, United States
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the 2025 Noche De Gala on May 15. The evening is dedicated to honoring outstanding leaders and celebrating excellence in the Rio Grande Valley.
This event recognizes the achievements of the Businessman of the Year, Businesswoman of the Year, and the esteemed recipient of the Golden Eagle Award, showcasing their contributions to our community and beyond.
The Gala will also feature a live and silent auction, with proceeds supporting the RGV Hispanic Chamber’s initiatives to empower small businesses and foster economic growth.
Tickets are $125 each, $1,500 for a reserved table.
Buy tickets online.

Boosting Customer Satisfaction in Your Restaurant
2025-05-21 10:00 - 12:00 | UTRGV at Starr County Campus, 138 N FM 3167, Rio Grande City, TX, 78582, United States
Are your restaurant customers satisfied with your service?
Join the UTRGV Small Business Development Center for an insightful seminar on May 21 designed to enhance the customer service experience in restaurants. This session will cover essential tips and best practices to ensure guests leave with a smile and a desire to return.
Session Highlights:

Managing and understanding customer expectations
Effective communication
Personalized service
Team training and motivation

Register online.

LSNB - Insurance Preparedness & Business Tax Strategies
2025-05-21 11:30 - 13:00 | Lone Star National Bank – McAllen, 520 East Nolana Avenue, McAllen, United States
Lone Star National Bank – Exclusive Lunch & Learn Series: “Supporting Business Success” is back on May 21 with “Insurance Preparedness & Business Tax Strategies.”
The series of in-person educational seminars are designed to empower local entrepreneurs and business leaders with actionable tools and insights to help launch, manage and grow a thriving business.
This initiative follows Financial Literacy Month, as part of LSNB’s ongoing commitment to strengthen the local business community through financial education and support.
RSVP via communityRelations@lsnb.com or 956-414-2051.

Leadership Edinburg Recruitment Mixer
2025-05-29 16:30 - 19:00 | Times Two Bar & Grill, 1306 W University Drive, Edinburg, United States
Join the Edinburg Chamber for its Leadership Edinburg Recruitment Mixer on May 29 at Times Two Bar & Grill.
Connect with inspiring alumni, discover the chamber’s transformative program and network with fellow aspiring leaders.

Margarita Scramble Golf Tournament
2025-05-31 07:00 - 12:00 | Tony Butler Golf Course, 2640 Golf Course Drive, Harlingen, United States
Join the Greater Chamber of Harlingen at the Tony Butler Golf Course on May 31 for the Margarita Scramble Golf Tournament featuring golf, margaritas and good company.
This event is perfect for golf enthusiasts of all skill levels – whether you’re a pro or just starting, everyone is welcome.
Grab your clubs, gather your friends, and get ready for a day of friendly competition on the green. After the game, enjoy refreshing margaritas and delicious snacks at the clubhouse.
Don’t miss out on this exciting event – sign up now.

Women Empowering Women Workshop
2025-06-05 11:45 - 13:00 | Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce, 311 E. Tyler Ave., Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
The Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce hosts an empowering afternoon with Susie Neaville from JPMorgan Chase on June 5 for Women Empowering Women. Neaville will dive into “Money Matters: How to Manage, Monitor and Maximize Your Finances.”
Whether you’re building your business or working toward personal goals, this workshop is packed with practical tips to help you take control of your financial future.
RSVP by June 3.

Jurassic RGV Live Dinosaur Show
2025-06-12 18:30 - 20:30 | Quinta Mazatlan, 600 Sunset Drive, McAllen, TX, 78503, United States
Transport back in time to the age of the dinosaurs during Thursday Night Live with Jurassic RGV on June 12 at Quinta Mazatlán.
The live dinosaur show will feature life-sized animatronic dinosaurs that move and roar just like they did millions of years ago. Engage with the performers and dinosaurs, providing a unique and immersive experience. There will also be photo opportunities to capture the moment with your favorite dinosaur for a memorable keepsake.
The Jurassic RGV food truck will be serving up hamburgers and hotdogs, snow cones and ice cream, and aguas frescas.
Admission is $5 per person and tickets can be purchased at quintamazatlan.ticketleap.com.

Friday with the City | Special Edition Roads
2025-06-13 08:00 - 09:30 | City of Brownsville Communications and Marketing Department / Convention and Visitors Bureau Complex, 1312 East Adams Street, Brownsville, United States
The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce hosts an exclusive opportunity on June 13 to learn about the future of the community at Friday with the City.
The City of Brownsville is implementing a Road Capital Recovery Fee to help fund transportation infrastructure needs. The CRF is designed to support new growth and development. It aims to equitably distribute the costs of road improvements among developers who benefit directly from them.
The CRF is a one-time fee assessed on new developments to help fund necessary roadway expansions and new roads outlined in the City’s Capital Improvements Plan. These funds will be used to widen existing roads and construct new ones in designated service areas across Brownsville.
The City’s CRF represents a proactive step in managing Brownsville’s growth while maintaining a strong commitment to equity and infrastructure quality.
Friday with the City is an initiative of the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Brownsville, designed to keep the community informed about the city’s ongoing growth, progress and vision for the future.
Submit questions for the panelists in advance online.
RSVP online.

Lemonade Day Brownsville
2025-06-14 | Brownsville, Brownsville, TX, United States
Lemonade Day is coming to Brownsville on June 14, empowering today’s youth to be tomorrow’s entrepreneurs.
Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their own business – a lemonade stand.
The foremost objective of Lemonade Day is to empower youth to take ownership of their lives and become productive members of society – the business leaders, social advocates, volunteers and forward thinking citizens of tomorrow.
Each child that registers receives access to the Lemonade Day curriculum that teaches them lessons like creating budgets, setting profit-making goals, serving customers, repaying investors and giving back to the community. Along the way, they acquire skills in goal-setting, problem solving and gain self-esteem critical for future success. They keep all the money they make and are encouraged to spend some, save some and share some.
For more information, including a map of stands throughout the city, visit the event website.

2025 MPL Job Fair
2025-06-21 10:00 - 13:00 | McAllen Public Library, 4001 North 23rd Street, McAllen, TX, 78504, United States
McAllen Public Library, in partnership with Workforce Solutions, invites the public to the 2025 MPL Job Fair on June 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Main Library. This free event is designed to connect job seekers with local employers and provide direct access to employment opportunities across a wide range of industries.
Attendees will have the chance to meet with hiring managers from over 40 companies, submit applications on site in both print and digital formats, and participate in on-the-spot interviews. A computer lab will also be available to assist with online applications. Job seekers are encouraged to dress professionally and bring multiple copies of an updated resume.
A wide range of employers will be on site, including AARP; City of McAllen; Dental Assistant Training School Rio Grande Valley; El Pato Mexican Food; Entertainment and Security Professionals, LLC; FPS Staffing; Gorditas Doña Lula; Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office; Kumori Sushi; McAllen Careers Institute; Memco Staffing; Miba Energy; Mike’s Plumbing & Electrical, Inc.; New York Life Insurance Company; North Alamo Water Supply; R & D Personnel; Rally Credit Union; Region One SubHub; RGVision Media; Snowball Express; Southern Careers Institute; Southern Industrial Careers; Spectrum; Spherion Staffing, LLC; Texas Department of Criminal Justice; Texas Department of Public Safety; The College of Health Care Professions; Tropical Smoothie Café; TTEC; UP Trucking Services, LLC; UTRGV; Valley Quality Cleaners, Inc.; Venser Contractors, LLC; Walmart; Wayland Baptist University; Workforce Solutions; Wyndham Garden; and many others.
For more information, contact the Main Library’s Information Desk at 956-681-3060 or referencelibrarian@mcallen.net.

Texas Cook’Em: High Steaks in Edinburg
2025-06-26 08:00 - 17:00 | Ebony Hills Golf Course, 300 W. Palm Drive, Edinburg, TX, United States
Get ready for the ultimate Independence Day celebration on July 4 at the biggest and boldest Texas Cook’Em yet.
Hosted by the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, this all-day event brings together elite BBQ competition, live music, family fun and fireworks — all in one unforgettable day.
The day includes the $12,500 BBQ Cook-Off with top CBA and SCA competitors; live music by Garth Live! – The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute, Fooz Fighters, and Red – A Taylor Swift Tribute.
Other events include a Freedom Skydive Jump presented by J. Gonzalez Law Firm, the H-E-B Sizzle & Stripes Firework Show at 9 p.m. and a Family Fun Zone sponsored by Omar Ochoa Law Firm. There is also the Cars & Stripes Auto Show presented by Bert Ogden GMC, food, craft vendors and more.

Financing Options for your Business: A Lender Panel Discussion
2025-06-27 09:00 - 11:00 | SBA Lower Rio Grande Valley District Office , 2422 E. Tyler Ave., Suite E, Harlingen, TX, 78550, United States
Let’s Talk Business
The U.S. Small Business Administration recognizes that supporting entrepreneurship is a team effort. “Financing Options for your Business: A Lender Panel Discussion” is the last in a series of 12 specifically developed with the local entrepreneur in mind.
Money is the lifeline of any business, and securing financing is a significant factor. Many entrepreneurs find the task daunting and are unsure where to begin. This June 27 session will feature a panel of SBA lenders and microlenders, who will answer questions and provide information on how to apply and the requirements for a business loan.
Discover and Learn:

Basic requirements and eligibility
The difference between a conventional loan and an SBA-guaranteed loan
The five C’s of credit
Criteria used to evaluate loan proposals

For more information, contact Veronica Z. Ortega.
Register online.

Mix, Mingle and Learn: Your Next Big Opportunity in Health Insurance
2025-06-27 15:00 - 18:00 | Bodega Tavern & Kitchen, 2901 N 10th Street, McAllen, United States
Join the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on June 27 for an afternoon of networking, collaboration and opportunity for health insurance professionals.
Elizondo Insurance Services hosts this exclusive mixer designed to connect current and aspiring agents, share insights and explore ways to grow together.
RSVP online.

Stars & Stripes: A Freedom Festival
2025-07-04 18:00 - 22:00 | Downtown Weslaco, Texas Blvd., Weslaco, United States
Let freedom ring with fun, food and drones under the Texas Star’s at Weslaco’s Stars & Stripes: A Freedom Festival.
The free community event also features vendors and live music.
