
Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development (RSTEF) has awarded Noble Charities $85,955 for postsecondary education and workforce development.
In 2026, RSTEF partnered with Noble Charities, investing in the Noble College Summer Internship program. The program seeks to expand workforce development through a targeted college internship program for 10 students in construction-related majors at both two-year and four-year institutions. Interns will complete a 10-week rotation across departments at Noble Builders. By increasing awareness of diverse construction career paths, the program strengthens the regional workforce, improves economic conditions, and helps retain top local talent to serve the community long-term.
Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development (RSTEF) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on Postsecondary Education and Workforce Development. RSTEF serves a seven-county region comprised of Willacy, Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Zapata, Jim Hogg, and Webb counties. The nonprofit provides financial support to 501(c)3 nonprofits whose programs result in increased skilled employment and educational attainment for area residents. RSTEF’s goal is to help our region’s residents attain vocational trade certifications and/or degrees for in-demand professions, thereby improving the economic conditions and quality of life for the region.
Since 2019, RSTEF has awarded $11.6 million dollars to programs across the Rio South Texas Region. This $11.6 million has been leveraged, resulting in up to $23.2 million for program funding through matching funds. So far 41 programs have been awarded at institutions such as UT-Rio Grande Valley, Texas A&M, Texas A&M International University, Laredo College, South Texas College, Texas State Technical College, Texas Southmost College, Cameron County Education Initiative, and Imaginarium of South Texas.
RSTEF Board of Directors includes Mr. James Moore, Mr. Jimmy Notzon, Dr. Miguel Nevarez, Dr. Joel Solis, Mr. Walter Reyna, Mr. David Oliveira, and Mr. Frank Almaraz.
RSTEF’s funding cycle opens July 1st and closes August 31st. To inquire about RSTEF and funding support contact info@rstef.org. Follow us on Facebook at Rio South Texas ECDF.
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