VBR

Art Walk
2023-11-10 18:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | McAllen Creative Incubator, 601 N Main Street, McAllen, TX, 78504, United States
McAllen Creative Incubator hosts Art Walk featuring local vendors, exhibits with original work, live entertainment and more on Nov. 10.
This family-friendly event is free and open to the public.

24th Annual Turkeyfest Fall Festival
2023-11-11 | St. Joseph Catholic School, 119 W. Fay Street, Edinburg, 78539, United States
St. Joseph Catholic School hosts its 24th annual Turkeyfest Fall Festival on Nov. 11 beginning at 11 a.m. The day-long event includes games, entertainment, food, and live and silent auctions.
In addition, guests can participate in educational presentations from Sea Turtle Inc., UTRGV Robotics, and the International Museum of Science on the Solar Eclipse. The day also includes a special student-led presentation for community veterans.
Highlights include:

Food and Refreshments: A wide array of foods and beverages from local vendors.
Games and Activities: Rides, games and prizes for all ages.
Live Entertainment: DJ Joel and Jaime G and the Adels
Silent & Live Auction: Bid on fantastic items generously donated by local businesses, parents and supporters. All proceeds will directly benefit St. Joseph Catholic School.
Educational Displays: Sea Turtle Inc., UTRGV Robotics, and IMAS: Solar Eclipse

Admission to the festival is free, $25 for unlimited ride access. St. Joseph’s encourages all attendees to further contribute to the cause by participating in various activities, including purchasing food or beverages and participating in our auctions. Every dollar raised will directly benefit the students and programs at St. Joseph Catholic School.
For more information, sponsorship opportunities, or to volunteer, contact Rudy Regalado.

Link Up: Speed Networking
2023-11-14 11:30 - 13:00 | McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave., McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Link Up: Speed Networking on Nov. 14 is geared towards McAllen Chamber members and gives attendees the opportunity to promote their business, develop new leads and create new professional contacts.
Light lunch will be provided. Seating is limited.
To reserve your spot, contact Ismari Salcido at membership@mcallenchamber.com.

Small Business Academy - Legal Landmines
2023-11-14 11:30 - 13:30 | UTRGV Small Business Development Center, 1407 E Freddy Gonzalez Drive, Edinburg, TX, 78542, United States
“Navigating Legal Landmines: Essential Legal Considerations for Small Businesses” on Nov. 14 provides small business owners with crucial insights into legal aspects of running a business.
Limited seats available for this seminar presented by the UTRGV Small Business Development Center.
For registration and more information, contact the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Customer Service Plus!
2023-11-15 10:00 - 12:00 | RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, 801 E. Fern, Suite 143, McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Is your small business ready to serve customers this holiday season? “Customer Service Plus!” on Nov. 15 gives participants a better understanding of why customer service is so important to the success of a business.
Session Highlights:

Meeting customer expectations & and satisfying customer needs;
Delivering excellent customer service; and
Becoming a powerful problem-solver.

This in-person session is presented by the UTRGV SBDC and co-hosted by the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Register online.

Digital Media for Small Businesses
2023-11-16 09:00 - 11:00 | Weslaco Business Visitor and Event Center, 275 S. Kansas, Weslaco, TX, 78596, United States
Does your business have a digital presence? Small businesses that incorporate digital marketing to promote their goods/services use various media – including websites, social media platforms, blogs, video, email, and phone apps plus more – to reach consumers.
Learn more about these valuable tools for your business at “Digital Media for Small Businesses.”
Session Highlights:
• What is digital marketing?
• What are the benefits of digital marketing?
• What are the different types of digital marketing?
• How do you measure the effects of digital marketing?
• What considerations exist when setting digital marketing objectives?
Presented by the UTRGV Small Business Development Center in partnership with the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center.
Register online.

Historical Happy Hour: Wine Tasting
2023-11-17 17:00 - 19:00 | Laureles Ranch House in Linear Park, 1501 E. 7th Street, Brownsville, United States
It’s the holiday season! Gather your friends and join the Brownsville Historical Association at the Laureles Ranch House Museum on Nov. 17 for a chance to sample an assortment of wine; perfect for your holiday gatherings. This month’s happy hour is sponsored by L&F Distributors. Attendees must be 21 years and older.
Admission is free for BHA members, $15 when you RSVP, $20 at the door. No refunds.

Small Business Branding
2023-11-28 10:00 - 12:00 | UTRGV at Starr County Campus, 138 N FM 3167, Rio Grande City, TX, 78582, United States
Successful branding begins at the start of your business journey. “Small Business Branding” on Nov. 28 teaches attendees how to develop a structure that is unique to their business and recognizable to their customer.
Session Highlights:

What is a brand?
The importance of branding?
The three branding principles.
Steps to branding development.
Protecting and maintaining a successful brand.

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.
Register online.

RGV H.I.R.E.S Cameron County: An Inclusive Job Fair Experience
2023-11-29 09:00 - 12:00 | Brownsville Events Center, 1 Events Center Blvd., Brownsville, TX, United States
RGV H.I.R.E.S. (Helping Individuals Reach Exponential Success) is an inclusive job fair event on Nov. 29 that welcomes individuals with disabilities as well as job seekers without disabilities. The event is taking place in Cameron County and aims to foster a stronger connection between the business community and the disability community in the Rio Grande Valley.
RGV H.I.R.E.S.’s primary objective is to identify companies and agencies that are searching for qualified candidates with diverse abilities.
Employers may register as vendors online. Job seekers may also register online.

Edinburg Hometown Holiday Celebration
2023-11-30 - 2023-12-01 | Promenade Park, 201 McIntyre Street, Edinburg, 77450, United States
The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce and the City of Edinburg kicks off the holiday season with the Hometown Holiday Celebration Nov. 30 and Dec. 1. The festivities will transform the City of Edinburg’s Downtown District into a magical winter wonderland.
Kicking off the festivities, on Nov. 30, the City of Edinburg will illuminate its downtown district with a spectacular Light of the Tree event at Promenade Park, 201 McIntyre Street. Visitors may explore the Pop-Up holiday market, which will remain open until Dec. 1, offering an array of seasonal delights.
The highlight of the celebration is the Night of Lights parade on Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. The parade route will follow South Closner Boulevard, showcasing an array of floats and entertainment, all in line with this year’s theme, “Santa’s Workshop.”
For further information about the event, contact the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce.

Pharr Winter Wonderland
2023-12-01 18:00 - 23:00 | Pharr Downtown Park, 118 S. Cage Blvd., Pharr, United States
The City of Pharr hosts its inaugural Winter Wonderland celebration on Dec. 1, transforming Downtown Park into a festive holiday spectacle for the entire community.
This free event takes place from 6-11 p.m. Downtown Park and includes the annual lighting of the Christmas tree with a countdown starting promptly at 7 p.m.
Other highlights include festive activities hosted by City of Pharr employees, live music, food and market vendors, photo opportunities, a carnival, snow sledding, Elf on the Shelf giveaways, and of course the arrival of Santa Claus.
The City of Pharr extends a warm invitation to the entire community.

McAllen Holiday Parade & Christmas in the Park 2023
2023-12-02 15:00 - 23:00 | McAllen Municipal Park, 1921 North Bicentennial Blvd., McAllen, TX, United States
The 2023 McAllen Holiday Parade returns live on Dec. 2 with the largest holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas returning.
Events include:

1.5 Mile stadium and street parade route
Cheer to twirl your favorite giant character
Balloons in the new “Vuelta Zones”
Illuminated floats and surprises
Celebrity hosts and guest appearances
Marching bands and dance teams
Christmas in the Park

For more information, visit mcallenholidayparade.com.

Port Isabel Christmas Tree Lighting & Holiday Street Parade
2023-12-02 18:00 - 19:00 | Beulah Lee Park, 213 N. Yturria Street, Port Isabel, United States
Port Isabel Mayor Cantu Jr. and the Port Isabel City Commissioners invite the community to attend and participate in a Port Isabel holiday tradition, the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree in Beulah Lee Park on Dec. 2. Starting at 7 p.m., the event will feature performances, vendors, Santa Claus and a bigger and brighter Christmas tree. The event is open to the public.
The City of Port Isabel’s Public Works Department will also be decorating the Highway 100 medians with festive holiday lights and more.

RGVHCC Ugly Sweater Christmas Mixer
2023-12-04 17:30 - 19:30 | Legacy Event Center, 4610 S. Jackson Road, Edinburg, TX, United States
The RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce hosts its Ugly Sweater Christmas Mixer on Dec. 4. Embrace the “so bad it’s good” fashion and celebrate the holiday season in style while making a positive impact in the community. The evening includes an ugly sweater contest for the ugliest, tackiest and most eye-catching Christmas sweater.
Admission is unwrapped toys to be donated to Operation Christmas RGV.
Register online in advance.

All About Women “A Christmas Affair”
2023-12-07 17:30 - 20:00 | McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave., McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
The 17th annual All About Women “A Christmas Affair” shopping and networking event takes place Dec. 7 with door prizes, a holiday photo backdrop, hot beverages from Uncommonly Rossina Fine Treats, live entertainment and plenty of shopping.
The PNC Bank and the McAllen Chamber of Commerce event begins with a cocktail and hors d’oeuvres reception from 5:30-6 p.m. with Macaroni Grill, Tacocean and Azucar & Sal.
“This is an excellent opportunity for women entrepreneurs and small business owners to showcase their products, services and unique gifts – just in time for Christmas Holiday shopping,” said Gerry Garcia, McAllen Chamber director of Special Projects and Events. “It’s also the perfect occasion to get together with friends for a girl’s night out and provides a great opportunity to network and build relationships.”
Guests can shop from 30 vendors who will be on site with gift-giving ideas and entrance to the event is free.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Gerry Garcia at 956-682-2871.

Weslaco Santa Dash 5k
2023-12-09 17:00 - 18:00 | Downtown Weslaco, Texas Blvd., Weslaco, United States
The Weslaco Chamber of Commerce and RGV Theme Runs come together to host the return of the annual Santa Dash 5K on Dec. 9 with participants kicking off the Weslaco Christmas Parade at 5 p.m.
Each 5K runner will receiving a five-piece Santa Suit, medal and a bib.
Register online.

Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade
2023-12-09 18:00 | Downtown Weslaco, Texas Blvd., Weslaco, United States
Celebrate the holidays on Dec. 9 with the Weslaco Lighted Christmas Parade, featuring a variety of floats and a special appearance from Santa himself.
Featuring more than 100 float entries, music and fun, the parade features Christmas Movie themed floats. Route runs down Texas Boulevard from Pike Street to 6th Street.
Parking spaces are available down the parade route.

State of the State Luncheon
2023-12-12 11:30 - 13:30 | TSTC Cultural Arts Center, 1902 N. Loop 499, Harlingen, 78550, United States
The Harlingen Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the State of the State Luncheon on Dec. 12. The insightful gathering discusses the latest developments and future prospects. Attending are state representatives Oscar Longoria (District 35), Janie Lopez State Representative (District 37) and Erin Gamez (District 38). Special guest Senator Morgan LaMantia (District 27) will also be in attendance.
For more information about table and sponsorship opportunities, email amarez@harlingen.com or call 956-423-5440.

Market Mastery: Strategies for Effective Small Business Marketing
2023-12-12 11:30 - 13:30 | UTRGV Small Business Development Center, 1407 E Freddy Gonzalez Drive, Edinburg, TX, 78542, United States
“Strategies for Effective Small Business Marketing” on Dec. 12 equips small business owners with the knowledge and tools to excel in their marketing efforts. Participants will explore key marketing principles, including market research, target audience identification, branding, digital marketing and customer acquisition.
Limited seats available.
For registration and more information, call 956-928-0060 or register online.

Flamingo & Mingle Membership Holiday Mixer
2023-12-14 17:00 - 19:30 | Gladys Porter Zoo, 500 Ringgold Street, Brownsville, TX, United States
Join the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce for an evening of cheer at the Gladys Porter Zoo on Dec. 14 with the Flamingo & Mingle Membership Holiday Mixer.
The evening also supports the Brownsville Police Department’s “Christmas for Kids” project. Attendees are encouraged to contribute donations and toys to make this holiday season extra special for the lives of the youngest community members.
For more information or assistance registering for the event, contact the Brownsville Chamber of Commerce.

Business & Tamales Holiday Open House
2023-12-15 11:30 - 13:30 | McAllen Chamber of Commerce, 1200 Ash Ave., McAllen, TX, 78501, United States
Connect with fellow McAllen Chamber of Commerce members on Dec. 15 with the Business & Tamales Holiday Open House. Tamales are provided by Delia’s Tamales.
RSVP with Gerry Garcia.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
