Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – The City of McAllen has partnered with The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship to bring the UTRGV Market Lab to the McAllen Main Library, expanding access to free business development resources for local entrepreneurs and small business owners.
The six-week program will provide the first 30 accepted businesses with personalized coaching, market research, branding support, and strategic planning at no cost. Participants will also be paired with UTRGV student consulting teams for semester-long projects focused on market research, business strategy, financial analysis, and marketing.
“We’re excited to bring the UTRGV Market Lab to McAllen and provide our local entrepreneurs with access to resources that can help them grow and succeed,” said City Manager Isaac J. Tawil. “Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, and we’re grateful to partner with UTRGV to offer this exceptional opportunity to the business community. By investing in our entrepreneurs, we’re investing in the future of McAllen.”
The program combines classroom learning with real-world business consulting, allowing students to apply their knowledge while helping businesses make data-driven decisions and strengthen their long-term growth.
Dr. Giorgio Gotti, dean of the Robert C. Vackar College of Business and Entrepreneurship, said the Market Lab program reflects UTRGV’s commitment to experiential learning. “One of the best ways to prepare students for successful careers is to give them opportunities to solve real business challenges before they graduate,” Gotti said. “Through Market Lab, students work alongside local businesses, applying their knowledge, developing professional skills and making a meaningful impact on our community. This collaboration benefits our students, our business partners, and the continued growth of the Rio Grande Valley.”
Hosted at the McAllen Main Library, the program is open to entrepreneurs, startups, innovators, and small business owners looking to launch or expand their businesses. Through coaching, mentorship, and hands-on consulting, participants will develop practical strategies tailored to their unique business goals.
Since its inception, Market Lab has served more than 70 businesses, with 92 percent of participants reporting increased market clarity and confidence in their business direction.
Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort are now being accepted. For additional information or to apply, visit https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=pjYEmd-HHEmRJJr6kfiIJw04M0otkuJDoY7DWhlh3ZpUQUNGUk5KTjM0M0lQOFVINUpLMUNLSEdJWi4u&route=shorturl
Information source: City of McAllen
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