Author: pharr edc

The UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center is expanding its reach to Central and South America, aiming to connect with entrepreneurs and startups in these regions. This initiative is closely linked to the Pharr Global Business Hub, where the center’s efforts are integrated as part of a broader strategy to foster international business collaboration and innovation.

Key Benefits of the Pharr Global Business Hub for UTRGV’s Expansion:

• Enhanced Access to Global Markets: The hub provides a gateway for UTRGV programs to reach new international markets, facilitating cross-border business opportunities.
• Strategic Partnerships: Businesses and entrepreneurs can leverage connections made through the hub to collaborate with UTRGV, enhancing their access to resources and expertise.
• Comprehensive Support: The hub offers infrastructure and support services that complement UTRGV’s programs, making it easier for international startups to engage with UTRGV and thrive in the U.S. market.
• Innovation and Growth: By being part of the Pharr hub, UTRGV can offer more robust support to startups, helping them scale more efficiently with the backing of a well-connected business community.

This expansion into Central and South America, supported by the Pharr Global Business Hub, is expected to drive economic growth, innovation, and stronger international ties for both UTRGV and the participating businesses.

In a significant endorsement, Texas Workforce Commissioner Julian Alvarez expressed support for the Pharr Global Business Hub during its official opening on August 15. He focused on the hub’s role in fostering economic development and job creation in the region.

During a visit, Alvarez highlighted the hub’s potential to attract businesses and enhance workforce training opportunities. This backing is a strong signal of the hub’s importance in the state’s broader economic strategy, further solidifying Pharr as a crucial player in regional development.

The Pharr Global Business Hub Opens to Praise for Community Leaders

The Pharr Global Business Hub recently celebrated its grand opening, marking a new era for the city’s economic landscape. The event brought together local leaders, business owners, and community members to witness the inauguration of this state-of-the-art facility.

Designed to support international trade and business growth, the hub was founded by Pharr EDC alongside the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). UTRGV’s involvement brings valuable educational and entrepreneurial resources to the hub, fostering collaboration and innovation.

Services offered by the Pharr Global Business Hub:

• International Trade Assistance: Support for businesses looking to expand into global markets.
• Business Development Resources: Access to tools and mentorship for business growth.
• Workforce Training Programs: Collaborations with local institutions like UTRGV to enhance workforce skills.
• Networking Opportunities: Events and programs to connect businesses with industry leaders and potential partners.
• Infrastructure and Facilities: State-of-the-art spaces designed to accommodate various business needs.

This opening signifies Pharr’s commitment to becoming a key player in global commerce, with strong support from academic institutions like UTRGV.

The Pharr Global Business Hub, a collaboration between UTRGV and the Pharr Economic Development Corporation, has officially opened its doors at 301 S. Cage Blvd.

The facility, a culmination of a four-year project, is dedicated to attracting new businesses and enhancing existing ones in the Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Magdalena Hinojosa highlighted the significance of the partnership, emphasizing, “This facility allows us to expand the resources and economic workforce development support services, and it will advance our region’s economic development and community engagement.”

One of the key objectives of the Pharr Global Business Hub is to provide a wide range of resources aimed at fostering business creation and job expansion. The hub will offer programs such as the Kauffman FastTrac initiative, providing entrepreneurs with a collaborative environment to engage with facilitators and peers for professional development and business growth.

On July 18, 2024, Pharr, Texas, celebrated the groundbreaking of Greenway’s new facility in Pharr Produce Park. The event, which marked a milestone for Greenway, was also an opportunity to recognize the growth that Greenway has been bringing to the area. Other highlights of the event included the following:

Attendance by Assistant City Managers Hilda Pedraza and Dr. David Friedlein
Attendance by Adriana Gomez from Senator Cruz’s office.
Recognition of Greenway and the role of collaboration in the success of Pharr Produce Park by Pharr EDC President Victor Perez.
Recognition of Ramon Mery, CEO of Greenway, for his foundational role in Pharr’s growth.
Mery’s recognition of Pharr as a strategic location for investment, business growth, and operational efficiency.

On May 9, 2024, the City of Pharr, Pharr EDC, and Pharr Economic Development Foundation hosted the 2024 Scholarship Awards Ceremony at Regency Hall, honoring 122 students from Pharr and the PSJA area. The event celebrated the students’ academic achievements and community impact. Perla Tamez Casanova and Victor Pérez highlighted the importance of education in economic growth and personal success. Annabel Cardona, CEO of the Valley Grande Institute, encouraged students to remember their roots and community support. The ceremony, funded through various events and donations, underscored the region’s commitment to fostering future leaders and celebrated the bright future toward which the community strives.