Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
MISSION, TEXAS – [Feb. 10, 2025] – The Mission Economic Development Corporation (MissionEDC) awarded $220,000 in grant funding to 16 small businesses via the Ruby Red Ventures – BuildMission Fund.
Now in its second year, the signature program provides up to $15,000 to small businesses inMission to assist with operation sustainability, facility improvements, expansions, working capital, and job retention and creation.
“The Ruby Red Ventures Build Mission Fund is designed to provide real, tangible support to small businesses and address critical needs,” Mission EDC CEO Teclo Garcia said. “Access to capital is one of the biggest barriers for entrepreneurs, and this fund helps bridge that gap — allowing businesses to scale, invest and thrive.”
Last year alone, Mission EDC invested nearly $600,000 in small business grants through initiatives like Ruby Red Ventures – Build Mission Fund.
“These grants don’t just fund businesses; they fund dreams and they create jobs,” Mission EDC Marketing and Programs Manager Brianna Casares said. “Seeing the passion and determination of these business owners is truly inspiring, and we are proud to be a part of their journey.”
Nancy Santillana, the owner of Yum Yum, was one of the recipients selected out of a pool of more than 90 applicants. She’s using the funding to improve the roof and facade of her restaurant, which was built over 45 years ago.
“We’re so grateful that we have this opportunity to be able to expand, renew, and keep this safe space for this community,” Santillana said about her business, which she says serves as a hangout spot for students at three nearby schools. “We probably would’ve done (the renovations) anyway, but it would have taken us longer to do all these things that we want to do.”
Garcia thanked the Mission EDC Board of Directors for its leadership, vision, and role in driving economic growth. “Our board is made up of community leaders who are passionate about building a stronger Mission, and they know small businesses are the key to success,” Garcia said.
For more information about Ruby Red Ventures and other Mission EDC programs, visit www.missionedc.com or contact Naxiely Lopez-Puente at (956) 877-6460 or nlopez@missionedc.com.
