Category: News

The Pharr Global Business Hub recently celebrated a milestone as the first cohort of Kauffman FastTrac – En Español successfully completed the program. Designed to empower entrepreneurs, this seven-week training provided essential business skills, including marketing, financial management, and strategic planning.

In partnership with the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center (ECC), the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) proudly supported this initiative, reinforcing its commitment to fostering local business growth and innovation.

Investing in the Future of Pharr’s Entrepreneurs

Pharr EDC President & CEO Victor Perez highlighted the program’s impact on economic development:

“Programs like Kauffman FastTrac equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and confidence to transform ideas into successful businesses, driving economic growth in our community.”

Graduates not only gained vital business expertise but also joined a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, creating opportunities for collaboration and support.

A Hub for Business Development

The Pharr Global Business Hub, home to the UTRGV ECC, serves as a dynamic space where entrepreneurs access essential resources, mentorship, and business incubation services. From high-speed internet to private workstations and networking events, the facility provides an ideal environment for innovation and success.

As these new entrepreneurs embark on their journeys, Pharr EDC remains dedicated to supporting their growth and strengthening the local economy.

For more information on business development programs in Pharr, visit Pharr EDC.

Through a strategic partnership with COMCE Zacatecas, Pharr EDC is actively working to facilitate trade and investment opportunities for Mexican exporters.

This collaboration focuses on creating a seamless pathway for businesses in Zacatecas to reach U.S. markets via Pharr, Texas. By providing exporters with resources and support, this partnership strengthens the economic ties between Mexico and the United States and helps Pharr maintain its status as a key trade gateway.

Pharr’s industrial park development has seen unprecedented growth, with expansion reaching over 133%. This surge reflects the city’s strategic importance in the industrial sector, attracting businesses seeking access to the U.S.-Mexico border region.

The rapid growth in industrial parks is indicative of Pharr’s successful economic development efforts and its appeal to companies looking for well-located, business-friendly environments with strong support infrastructure.

MasterBrand Cabinets has begun construction on a significant one-million-square-foot facility in South Pharr, representing a major investment in the region’s industrial development.

This project, expected to generate numerous job opportunities, reinforces Pharr’s reputation as a critical industrial and economic hub. Upon completion, the facility will enhance Pharr’s manufacturing capabilities, support the local workforce, and contribute significantly to the region’s economy.

Leonard discussed Raba Kistner’s decision to co-sponsor the IWS4 conference, which emphasizes sustainable water infrastructure solutions.

This sponsorship reflects Raba Kistner’s commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation in infrastructure. By supporting this conference, the company aims to contribute to discussions on pressing environmental challenges, such as water sustainability, and position itself as a leader in advancing sustainable practices in the industry.

Ortiz Middle School is introducing its students to the dynamic world of manufacturing with hands-on experiences and interactive learning. This initiative aims to inspire students to explore manufacturing careers, highlighting the industry’s evolving technology and diverse career paths.

Through workshops and facility tours, students gain a firsthand look at how the manufacturing sector operates, fostering an interest in pursuing skilled jobs that contribute to the local economy.

The city of Pharr proudly recognizes October as Manufacturing Month to celebrate the pivotal role of the manufacturing industry in its economic framework. This designation highlights the sector’s contributions to economic growth, job creation, and technological advancements in the region.

The month-long celebration will feature events, workshops, and tours to showcase manufacturing opportunities in Pharr and inspire local workforce development. Businesses, educators, and community members are encouraged to participate, learning about the industry’s advancements and the range of career paths available to residents of all ages.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) has taken a bold step in enhancing binational trade and investment by partnering with the Mexican Business Council for Foreign Trade, Investment, and Technology (COMCE).

This strategic alliance was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), underscoring both organizations’ commitment to promoting cross-border economic growth, with a particular focus on leveraging the Pharr International Bridge—a key commercial artery connecting Mexico and the United States.

Through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), both organizations committed themselves to leveraging the Pharr International Bridge as a pivotal commercial artery, driving economic growth and diversification in the region.

The MOU aims to deepen economic collaboration by facilitating trade and investment activities that benefit the economies of both countries. With COMCE’s established expertise in supporting Mexican businesses’ international trade ventures, this partnership is positioned to create new business opportunities, diversify economic resources, and drive substantial growth for businesses in Pharr and the broader Rio Grande Valley region.

COMCE, known for its dedication to promoting international trade and investment for Mexican businesses, plays a crucial role in facilitating economic relations. This partnership marks a significant step towards strengthening economic ties, creating new opportunities for businesses, and empowering economic growth in Pharr.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) has reached a huge milestone by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the American Chamber of Commerce of Mexico, Northeast Chapter (AmCham Northeast Chapter). This agreement, formalized by Victor Perez, president and CEO of Pharr EDC, Lorenzo Barrera Segovia, president of the AmCham Northeast Chapter, and Grace Lingo, executive director of the AmCham Northeast Chapter, marks a commitment to mutual growth and cooperation between the City of Pharr and AmCham’s 1,400 member companies.

The MOU aims to build stronger economic ties between the Northeastern Mexico region and Pharr, Texas. Although the agreement is not legally binding, it is designed to create deeper understanding and cooperation, enabling the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and resources across the border.

Victor Perez expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “The signing of this agreement marks the beginning of a new chapter in our relationship with AmCham.” He emphasized that the collaboration will create new job opportunities and strengthen the regional economy.

The involvement of AmCham, which represents influential players in Mexico’s economy, means that this strategic partnership will have far-reaching implications. It allows AmCham members to participate in business opportunities in Pharr while providing local businesses access to new markets in Mexico. The partnership positions Pharr as an attractive hub for international investment, aligning with initiatives like the Pharr Global Business Hub, which offers AmCham companies office space and resources to expand their operations.

This agreement also enhances Pharr’s reputation as a focal point for cross-border business relations, creating a reciprocal flow of investment and innovation that benefits both economies. By attracting international investment and providing local businesses the opportunity to enter the U.S. market, the partnership strengthens international value chains and introduces advanced technology and practices to the region.

The MOU will also facilitate joint events, conferences, and forums, allowing business leaders from both Mexico and the U.S. to engage directly with political, educational, and industry figures. These interactions are expected to yield a valuable exchange of ideas, shaping the future business environment in both regions.

In addition to promoting economic growth, the agreement emphasizes workforce development through training and advisory programs designed to improve skills and competitiveness. By sharing best practices and innovations, the partnership will ultimately enhance productivity and sustainability for businesses operating in both the U.S. and Mexican markets.

Overall, this MOU establishes a solid foundation for ongoing collaboration between the American Chamber of Commerce of Mexico and the Pharr EDC.

Pharr EDC announces nearly 11 million square feet of new industrial parks, highlighting city growth and international business opportunities.

At a recent South Texas Manufacturers Association meeting at the DoubleTree Suites by Hilton in McAllen, Janie Cavazos, vice president of business recruitment for the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC), revealed plans for ten new industrial parks.

These parks will add almost 11 million square feet of warehouse space, including cold storage and dry warehouses. Six parks will be within Pharr’s city limits, while the remaining will be in its extraterritorial jurisdiction (ETJ).

Pharr EDC, along with the Pharr Bridge Board, will officially announce the details at the next Warehouse Summit in October. This effort continues to position Pharr as a critical hub for international trade and development.

Pharr EDC has recently entered into a partnership with the American Chamber of Commerce of Northeast Mexico (AMCHAM Noreste) by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at enhancing trade and investment opportunities between the U.S. and Mexico.

The MOU now allows all members of AmCham (representing more than 1,400 companies) to use the new Pharr Global Business Hub to promote technology, cooperation, and investment across the border.

This collaboration was formalized during the “Future of Trade in the Rio Grande Valley” event held in McAllen, Texas, on September 10, where both organizations expressed their commitment to fostering economic growth in the region​.

The MOU outlines a framework for cooperation in areas such as trade facilitation, investment promotion, and the development of business networks. The agreement is expected to support initiatives that encourage U.S. companies to explore the Mexican market while helping Mexican businesses to navigate the U.S. economic landscape.

This partnership aligns with ongoing efforts in Pharr to capitalize on logistics and nearshoring opportunities, particularly as the region continues to see growth in manufacturing and trade activities. Pharr’s strategic location near the U.S.-Mexico border makes it an ideal hub for these initiatives, further supported by events like the Industrial Warehouse Summit which recently highlighted opportunities in logistics and industrial development​.

The AEM-COMCE tour, organized by Francisco J. Peña-Valdés, brought more than 45 Mexican business owners to the Rio Grande Valley (RGV) to explore trade and investment opportunities.

The tour, which featured stops in McAllen, Pharr, and Brownsville, aimed to connect Mexican entrepreneurs with local leaders and businesses to foster collaboration.

Peña-Valdés emphasized the importance of making this an annual event to sustain momentum and build trust.

The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC) played a pivotal role during the tour. Pharr EDC President Victor Perez, Economic Business Development Director Lilvette Santos, and other city officials welcomed the Mexican delegation at the Pharr One Center, where presentations and panel discussions on real estate, business opportunities, and economic growth were held.

The delegation also toured Pharr’s new Global Business Hub and discussed potential cross-border collaborations. Peña-Valdés highlighted the trust between AEM, COMCE Sur, and RGV leaders as a key element for future success.

The Pharr Border Business Advancement Initiative, supported by Victor Perez and the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC), recently hosted a mixer at Topgolf to stimulate growth in the manufacturing sector. The event aimed to foster networking and collaboration among industry professionals, business leaders, and community members.

Key Highlights from the Mixer:

• Networking Opportunities: The event provided a platform for attendees to connect with peers and potential partners in the manufacturing industry.
• Focus on Manufacturing Growth: The mixer addressed the needs and opportunities within the manufacturing sector in Pharr and the surrounding areas.
• Engagement with Local Businesses: Local manufacturers and stakeholders discussed industry trends, challenges, and strategies for growth.
• Support from Pharr EDC: Victor Perez, Executive Director of the Pharr EDC, and his team played a key role in organizing the event, demonstrating their commitment to supporting and expanding the manufacturing sector in the region.

The Topgolf mixer highlights the Pharr Border Business Advancement Initiative’s and the Pharr EDC’s dedication to fostering manufacturing growth through strategic networking and community engagement.

Victor Perez, Executive Director of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC), made impactful remarks at the official opening of the Pharr Global Business Hub on August 15. Perez highlighted the hub’s potential as a transformative force for economic growth in the region.

Key Points from Victor Perez’s Remarks:

• Catalyst for Economic Development: Perez emphasized the hub’s role as a crucial element in Pharr’s economic development strategy, expected to drive long-term growth.
• Strategic Location: He noted the hub’s advantageous position near major trade routes and international borders, enhancing Pharr’s status in global commerce.
• Job Creation: According to Perez, the hub will be instrumental in generating substantial employment opportunities for the local community.
• International Business Attraction: The hub is poised to attract global businesses seeking to expand or establish operations in the U.S., further boosting the local economy.

Victor Perez’s remarks underscore the Pharr EDC’s strong belief in the hub’s capacity to stimulate economic progress and position Pharr as a key player in international trade and business.

Pharr’s cold storage capabilities are expanding, thanks to a planned construction by LakeWay Produce’s sister company, Greenway Construction. Over two phases, the building will grow from an initial 50,000 square feet to a final 94,000 square feet of cold storage space.

The construction comes on the heels of another Greenway-built cold storage facility that opened earlier this year with a total of 44,000 square feet of space. Ramon Mery, CEO of LakeWay Produce and Greenway Construction has publicly praised Pharr and the surrounding area for providing an environment where produce companies can be “more competitive, more efficient, and better positioned.”

Sometimes, economic growth needs a hand. In our Community Grants Newsletter, discover upcoming loans and grants programs designed to put assistance within the reach of you and your organization, because when businesses thrive in Pharr, we all benefit.

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We are SO excited to announce that we have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with a delegate from Zitacuaro, Michoacan, MX as part of our continuing commitment to building international partnerships that benefit Pharr and our partners.

“This is a great move forward for the City of Pharr and the Pharr EDC as we aim to strengthen our international partnerships and work collaboratively with similar cities to attract growth, business, and investors,” said  Dr. Jonathan B. Flores, Pharr City Manager. “By working together, our two cities can synergize and help each other succeed.”
Read more about this exciting development here.

Under the strategic leadership of Victor Pérez, President and CEO of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and his dynamic team, Pharr EDC has embarked on an innovative journey with its “Sinergias” initiative. This program represents a fundamental shift from focusing predominantly on Mexico-centered bilateral relations to embracing a broader market engagement approach.

Read more on the Texas Border Business website.

Pharr EDC’s Sinergias Initiative: A Trigger for Industry Growth and Cross-Border Collaboration

Pharr-San-Juan-Alamo Independent School District students recently attended the City of Pharr’s third annual Manufacturing Day, hosted at the Pharr Development and Research Center to celebrate National Manufacturing Day.

The event featured a talk by Victor Perez, President and CEO of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation. Students had the opportunity to engage with industry professionals, participate in panel discussions with higher education partners and manufacturing companies.

David Ortiz, Regional Director of the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center at UTRGV, emphasized that the new generation’s ability to learn quickly and their access to vast information due to technology could bridge the skills gap.

Read more at Valley Central

https://www.valleycentral.com/news/local-news/psja-isd-students-to-attend-city-of-pharrs-3rd-annual-manufacturing-day-event/

Pharr, Texas – WinTex Tooling Technologies, previously known as Windsor Mold Texas, announces its company name change and rebrand, after its parent company, Windsor Mold Group was sold in March 2023.

The Pharr, Texas, plant is the only location that was excluded from the sale, which led to the company name change and rebrand as WinTex Tooling Technologies (WinTex). WinTex assures its customer base that it will continue operating with the same operational team and the same quality level of service as it has been for more than 30 years.
“WinTex Tooling Technologies will continue to serve all our customers with the same quality and on-time delivery moving forward,” said WinTex General Manager Stew McKee. “The team here at WinTex remains the same and are commited and ready for the next 30 years here in Pharr, Texas,” he added.

“We have had a productive and symbiotic relationship with Windsor Mold Texas here in Pharr and have witnessed its successful growth and development over the past 30 years,” said Pharr Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Victor Perez. “We are happy to hear that WinTex’s continuity of services will remain, and we wish them the best,” he added.

WinTex manufactures and repairs plastic injection molds and its customers base includes Stanley Black and Decker, Technimark, Royal Technologies, Maxi-Lift (Dallas), Starplast (Houston), Marmon Food Services, Elring Klinger (San Antonio) EMU Plastics, Kings ECO Plastics. The company began in Pharr in 1989 in a 4,000 sq. ft. facility, and expanded its plant in 1993 to 14,000 sq. ft. WinTex employees 24 full-time employees.

For more information, visit htps://wintextooling.com/

Pharr EDC and RGV Partnership recently hosted an event at Tierra del Sol Golf Course, highlighting Pharr’s potential as an industrial hub. Key speakers, including Victor Pérez, discussed “nearshoring” and its significance.

Attendees toured Pharr’s industrial parks, gaining practical insights. Plans for future summits and collaborations were announced. The event showcased Pharr’s investment opportunities and the role of partnerships in regional development. It solidified Pharr’s position as a leader in industrial progress.

Read more on the Texas Border Business website.

Pharr’s Industrial and Investment Tour, A Convergence of Opportunity and Innovation

The Pharr EDC launched the Pharr Economic Initiative, and paved the way for investors in Mexico to take advantage of the business opportunities right across the border, with a highly successful 1a Cumbre de Negocios in July 2023.

The summit, held in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, brought together investors in Mexico, the Pharr EDC, and their relevant partners to help investors facilitate the process of nearshoring operations in Pharr.

The summit addressed some of the biggest obstacles and questions facing Mexican investors who wish to expand their businesses across the border, and highlighted Pharr as a strategic partner in this endeavor.

Topics of the summit included the following:

Expanding the bridget between Pharr and Mexico
Development of strategic infrastructure such as storage and warehousing
Immigrant and non-immigrant visas
Customs regulations and considerations

The successful summit generated abundant interest and inquiries from potential investors. As the first step in the Pharr EDC’s initiative to promote the city as an ideal location for nearshoring ventures and international business expansion, the summit will be followed by additional resources and another summit.

Pharr President and CEO Victor Pérez also revealed Pharr EDC plans to partner with the University of Texas RGV to develop robust resources, such as legal aid, for international investors.

The goal of the initiative is not only to support Pharr but to expand economic opportunities throughout the entire region, creating mutually beneficial partnerships and encouraging economic and business growth.

Find below the complete article with the Texas Border Business.

Launch of the Pharr Economic Initiative, Forging Cross-Border Business Alliances and Nearshoring Prospects

For their role in Pharr’s broadband initiative, TeamPharr.net, the Pharr EDC earned a Community Development Award (CEDA) from the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) on October 20.

A collaborative project between the City of Pharr and the Pharr EDC, TeamPharr.net serves as an innovative and affordable way to connect families within Pharr to online opportunities such as school, work, and healthcare.

The Pharr EDC earned their CEDA award in the category of Secondary Benefits, and earned merit recognition for outstanding achievements in Economic Development.

“There was a lot of good competition in the category for Pharr,” says Raudel Garza, TEDC Board Member. “What made Pharr stand out is that it was very unique in its outreach to the community.”

Pharr’s broadband project is now serving as a model for other communities who are looking into their options for creating broadband connectivity. The Pharr EDC provided the funding that made TeamPharr.net possible.

“I’m very proud of the EDC and also the city of Pharr, for all its leadership,” says Pharr Mayor Dr. Ambrosio Hernandez,  “for thinking ahead, for thinking not only about business but also about community development, where everybody can win.”

For Pharr EDC President, Victor Perez, this type of collaborative community outreach is the perfect example of what makes Pharr a growing city.

“The mayor is a very visionary person,” he says. “He believes in partnerships, and that’s how we get things done. The City of Pharr is on the rise.”

The TEDC fosters a positive business climate in Texas and is the largest state economic development association in the nation.
To learn more about this award, watch this video.