Texas Border Business
Texas Border Business
Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development (RSTEF) has awarded Lindenwood Education System (dba South Texas Vocational Institute) $115,000 for postsecondary education and workforce development.
In 2026, RSTEF partnered with South Texas Vocational Technical Institute, Brownsville, investing in the Breaking Barriers to Workforce Training in South Texas proposal. The proposal seeks to provide 50 scholarships and equipment improvements in high-demand career pathways including HVAC, Electrical, Dental Assisting, Medical Billing & Coding, and Medical Clinical Assistant. The proposal will provide $1,000 – $2,000 scholarships and is expected to train 75 students during the grant period. Funds will be used to purchase modern equipment such as dental chairs, X-ray machines, MCA equipment, and HVAC units for training.
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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