Texas Border Business
MISSION, Texas – Local entrepreneurs in the City of Mission can now apply for the Ruby Red Ventures – Build Mission Fund Grant, a Mission Economic Development Corporation (Mission EDC) program that offers up to $15,000 in funding to support the growth of small businesses.
Initially launched in 2023, the program is designed to help small business owners identify and carry out personalized projects to scale operations, improve facilities and provide capital for other short- term needs.
“Our goal is to create opportunities for growth,” said Teclo J. Garcia, CEO of Mission EDC. “By empowering businessowners to tell us their specific needs, we’re ensuring that businesses not only grow but also stay in Mission.”
Last year, the program helped 15 entrepreneurs carry out projects that led to higher revenue, expansions and the creation of 18 new jobs.
Taqueria Oviedo, a 20-year-old Mission restaurant and a 2023 grant recipient, attracted a wave of new clientele after using their grant to install new indoor and outdoor signage. The renewed visibility led to a 20% increase in sales, the creation of three jobs and the establishment of a second location.
“This grant provides financial support to businesses that might otherwise face barriers to growth,” Marketing and Programs Manager Brianna Casares said. “It’s just one more way Mission EDC is creating more jobs and opportunities for investment in our community.”
Eligible businesses must be located within Mission city limits; have fewer than 30 employees;
produce less than $1 million in annual revenue; be legally registered and in good standing with local tax entities; in operation for at least two years and possess tax returns for 2022 and 2023.
Applications must be submitted via an online portal on Mission EDC’s website or in person at Mission EDC’s offices located inside the CEED, 801 N. Bryan Road, Mission, TX. The application portal openedTuesday, Oct. 1, and closes on Friday, Nov. 1. Applicants must also provide Mission EDC a detailed project plan with verified cost estimates and a timeline of proposed improvements.
For more information, visit www.missionedc.com/rubyredgrant, call (956) 585-0040, or attend one of four informational sessions throughout the month of October. In-person sessions will be held at the CEED on Oct. 8 and Oct. 15 at 6 p.m. Virtual sessions will be held via the following Zoom links: Oct. 9 at 6 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/34xvpfh7 and Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. https://tinyurl.com/4bv6zmr5.
