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Startup Funding Programs In Texas - 2024

Explore premier Startup Funding Programs in Texas to propel your business. Find grants, investors, and resources tailored for entrepreneurial success.

Lisa Shmulyan
Founder 101
February 15, 2024

Texas shines as a prime spot for new business minds due to plenty of startup funding and grants. This state is rich in venture capital, helping small businesses and fresh startups thrive. There are grants available that you don't have to pay back, attracting hopeful business minds.

Texas offers many chances for expansion through different grants provided at state and city levels, and even national ones. To grab these opportunities, you need to research well and apply carefully. These resources are ready to help your Texas-based venture grow.

Key Takeaways

  • Texas is a notable hub for business growth, with over 392,378 business establishments1.
  • A variety of state-specific and city-specific grants are available, such as the Texas Enterprise Fund and Lubbock Economic Development Alliance grants2.
  • Significant federal and local government funds support Texas businesses, amounting to over $91,001 million dollars1.
  • The Texas Workforce Commission’s Skills for Small Business Program provides up to $1,800 per year for new employees and $900 for existing employees2.
  • Young Farmer Grants and Texas State Trade Expansion Program help in specific sectors like agriculture and export activities2.

Overview of Startup Funding Programs in Texas

Texas is home to many grant programs for small businesses. These create a strong Texas startup ecosystem. They help entrepreneurs grow their businesses3. Among them, the Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) is a key resource for expanding within the state3. There are also special grants like the BMO Celebrating Women Grant. And the Center for Women Entrepreneurs StartHER Grant, both support women entrepreneurs financially3.

The Young Farmer Grants aim at young farmers, providing needed funding opportunities across Texas3. The Texas Job Creators Grant helps small businesses create jobs3. These programs show Texas' wide support for startups in various sectors.

Texas also focuses on increasing exports through the Texas State Trade Expansion Program. This helps small businesses reach international markets3. Programs at the Rice Alliance, like energy and life science, have raised billions. They show how Texas startups can grow and succeed4.

The teamwork between Rice Alliance and the University of Houston is notable. It's seen in their startup accelerators, RED Labs, and OwlSpark4. The Rice Business Plan Competition also stands out. It has provided over $1.5 million in investments and prizes, showing the funding opportunities in Texas4. All these elements make Texas a great place for entrepreneurs.

Grant ProgramTarget AudiencePurposeTexas Enterprise Fund (TEF)Existing businessesExpand operations in TexasBMO Celebrating Women GrantFemale entrepreneursProvide financial supportCenter for Women Entrepreneurs StartHER GrantFemale entrepreneursProvide financial supportYoung Farmer GrantsYoung individuals in farmingFinancial assistance for farmingTexas Job Creators GrantSmall businessesCreate new job opportunitiesTexas State Trade Expansion ProgramSmall businessesExpand export activities

Texas offers a wide range of funding opportunities for startups3. It caters to various demographics, industries, and goals. Texas keeps growing its exciting startup ecosystem with lots of support and resources. State grants and partnerships offer a strong support system for new ideas and innovation across the state.

Texas State Small Business Grants

Texas provides various small business grants to help with economic growth and job creation. These funds are perfect for small businesses wanting to grow without debt. You'll find some important programs offering financial help to businesses statewide below.

Texas Workforce Commission’s Skills for Small Business Grant Program

The Texas Workforce Commission’s Skills for Small Business Grant Program offers training money to small businesses with less than 100 employees. New workers can get up to $1,800 yearly, and existing staff can receive up to $900 for training2. This program makes it cheaper for businesses to boost their teams' skills and supports job creation.

Young Farmer Grants

Young Farmer Grants in Texas provide critical funding for those aged 18 to 45 in the agricultural business. These grants offer $5,000 to $20,000, covering up to 50% of eligible costs2. This support helps young farmers expand their operations and boosts the agricultural sector.

Texas Enterprise Fund

The Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) is key to Texas business growth, giving large financial rewards for job creation. Grants vary from $1,000 to $10,000 per job for companies making at least 75 jobs in cities or 25 in rural areas2. It shows Texas's focus on encouraging economic development and job creation through well-used funds.

To make the most of these chances, businesses should research small business grants, know what's required, and apply well. Besides money, these grants offer networking, investment exposure, and resources like training programs. This helps businesses grow significantly5.

Startup Texas Seed Fund and Accelerator Program

The Startup Texas Seed Fund and Accelerator Program was kicked off by the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation. It supports upcoming businesses in the Rio Grande Valley since 2019. Every year, it helps three groups of businesses with money and resources to grow. The goal is to make Brownsville, Texas, a hub for new businesses, boosting the local economy and teamwork.

Companies joining the Startup Texas Seed Fund go through an 8-12 week program designed for them. They do deep market research and meet experts and investors to grow their business. At the end, they present their ideas at Demo Day, hoping to get more funds and advice. This approach aims for their long-lasting success in the Rio Grande Valley.

Working with both local and national partners makes the Startup Texas Seed Fund stand out. An example is DivInc, which started 120 companies and raised over $15 million since 20166. Partners like Capital Factory and Quake Capital Partners also offer vital investments and help67. This gives the startups a strong support system for all their business needs.

The requirement for seed funding winners to move to Brownsville shows a commitment to growing local business. It brings fresh companies to the area and enriches the local economy. Hence, the Startup Texas Seed Fund plays a key role in shaping the region's economic future.

To learn more about the initiatives and success stories of the Startup Texas Seed Fund and Accelerator, visit their official site.

City-Specific Business Grants in Texas

Texas offers many grants tailored to the needs of each city's community. These grants help small businesses grow and help the local economy. Let's look at the grants in cities like Houston, Dayton, San Antonio, and Lubbock.

Grants Available in Houston

Houston offers a range of grants for diverse-led small businesses. For example, the Houston Open for Business Grant Program offers $5,000 to $100,0008. These grants aim to boost local businesses with financial support and promote economic diversity.

Dayton Community Development Corporation Grants

Dayton's CDC provides crucial business funding based on the city’s specific needs. They offer grants for property purchases, improving digital capabilities, and expansion9. This strategy promotes a strong and inclusive economic growth.

San Antonio Economic Development Department Grants

San Antonio's EDD grants support business growth and city rejuvenation. They have the Second-Stage Company Grant Program, offering up to $50,000, and the Façade Improvement Grant Program, offering up to $50,000 in reimbursements for exterior upgrades89. These grants play a big role in San Antonio's economic development by encouraging progress and renewal.

Lubbock Economic Development Alliance Grants

The LEDA is key to Lubbock's commercial revitalization, offering grants up to $50,000 for area-specific improvements8. It supports businesses looking to improve their premises and services. These grants are essential in creating a thriving and successful business atmosphere in Lubbock.

These city-specific funding programs are crucial for enhancing local economies. They offer vital support for businesses, fostering community growth throughout Texas.

Texas Job Creators Grant

The Texas Job Creators Grant is a crucial program for economic growth. It helps small businesses create jobs in Texas. The focus is on businesses owned by veterans, women, and those in low-income areas. This program awards $50,000 annually10.

This grant benefits diverse businesses greatly. It aims to make the business environment in Texas more inclusive. Texas businesses use these grants for growth and to create jobs.

Small businesses play a big role in Texas' economy. The Texas Job Creators Grant is key to keeping this sector strong. To find out more, visit the Swoop Funding website3.

Texas is committed to supporting small businesses through these grants. They help businesses grow and create jobs. This boosts the state's economy and diversity8.

BMO Celebrating Women Grant

The BMO Celebrating Women Grant program helps Texas women entrepreneurs with financial assistance. It gives $10,000 to help women grow their businesses. Each year, 15 female entrepreneurs across 24 states, including Texas11, receive this help. Your business qualifies if it's mostly owned by women, has been around for two years, and makes less than $5 million a year12.

This grant is a key part of helping women's businesses grow and thrive. It's part of a bigger push to give financial support and help the economy. Grants like the Deloitte partnership also help women entrepreneurs a lot. These efforts show a big commitment to supporting women's businesses in Texas and beyond.

Here's a look at the BMO Celebrating Women Grant among other grants for women entrepreneurs. This comparison shows what's available and how they differ:

Grant NameAmountEligibility CriteriaFrequencyBMO Celebrating Women Grant$10,00051% women-owned, 2+ years in business,AnnuallyAmber Grant$10,000/monthly, $25,000/yearly to two winnersWoman-owned businessesMonthly, YearlyCartier Women's Initiative Awards$100,000 first place, $60,000 second place, $30,000 third placeWomen entrepreneursAnnuallyDream Makers Founders Grant$25,000Female small-business ownersAnnuallyTory Burch Foundation Fellowship$5,000Women entrepreneursAnnuallyFund Her Future Grant$50,000 grand prize, $12,500 to four winnersWoman-owned businessesAnnually

It's crucial to support Texas women entrepreneurs through the BMO Celebrating Women Grant and similar programs. They play a key role in creating a strong and diverse business world. For more about small business grants in Texas, visit todayafrica.co11.

Center for Women Entrepreneurs StartHER Grant

The Center for Women Entrepreneurs at Texas Woman's University runs the StartHER Grant. It's a major help mainly for Texas women who own small businesses. They give $5,000 to each of 25 chosen businesses to pay for things like equipment, marketing, and daily costs. This chance opens in September 2024 and looks for businesses 51% or more owned by women. It shows how key women are in growing businesses.

Helping small businesses grow is what the Texas Women's University grant is all about. It offers start-up money to women, boosting their business impact. It also tackles specific hurdles they face, like getting money and resources. Women own 40% of U.S. businesses, giving jobs to over 12.2 million and creating $2.7 trillion in sales13.

The StartHER Grant is one of many grants for women entrepreneurs. For example, the Amber Grant gives $10,000 monthly to businesses in the U.S. and Canada14. The Giving Joy program has smaller grants between $250 and $500 for U.S. women in business15. These efforts all help women's businesses keep growing.

Also, the Boundless Future Foundation's EmpowHER gives up to $25,000 to female entrepreneurs over 2215. This shows just how much support is available for women leading businesses.

The grant program at Texas Women's University is vital for women needing start-up funds. Thanks to initiatives like the StartHER Grant, Texas female entrepreneurs are in a good position to succeed. They play a big role in the state's small business growth.

Veteran Woman Grant Program by Texas Women's University

The Veteran Woman Grant Program by Texas Women's University helps Texas veteran women entrepreneurs grow their businesses. It's made just for women veterans, providing strong financial help. Those living in Texas can get this help, receiving $5,000 each through five grants16.

This program is only one way organizations help veteran-owned businesses. For example, the V-WISE program has a 15-day online course and two days on-site, teaching entrepreneurs17. The Lift Fund offers a seven-week course for women veterans, too17.

Research shows veterans run over 1.9 million U.S. businesses, employing around 5.5 million people16. Texas Women's University's grants fit into this, providing money and education. The Veteran Woman Entrepreneur Grant from Texas Woman’s University specifically helps veteran businesses grow, boosting the community economy16.

There are many programs offering money and support for these businesses. For instance, the Military Entrepreneur Challenge and the SBIR Program help a lot16. They give financial aid and training to Texas veteran women entrepreneurs, helping them succeed.

To help women veteran businesses get more noticed, the Women Veteran-Owned Small Business Initiative was created17. Along with the NASE Growth Grants and Warrior Rising, they give veterans resources to reach their goals16.

The Veteran Woman Grant Program by Texas Women's University and other initiatives are key. They provide the money and help needed for veteran-owned businesses to do well and help the economy.

State Trade Expansion Program (STEP)

The State Trade Expansion Program, or STEP, is all about helping small Texas businesses go global. It offers grants to cover costs tied to exploring or growing in international markets. For businesses looking to reach out across borders, STEP is a key support.

By backing companies with a shared cost deal, STEP makes it a team effort. Businesses can get back money spent on things like trade shows and translating their marketing stuff. This help means even the smaller players can aim for success worldwide, boosting Texas' economy and beyond.

Texas is a big deal on the global stage, ranking as if it were the world's 9th largest economy. With a dynamic scene housing fifty-three major companies and millions of small businesses, the potential here is huge. A large number of these small firms could really benefit from stepping into international markets with STEP's aid.

The Small Business Administration (SBA) adds to this support18. They provide STEP grants to help businesses make their mark abroad. The goal? To fuel the growth of businesses with great potential, allowing them to explore new markets confidently.

Startup Funding Programs In Texas: Essential Tips

Entrepreneurs in Texas looking for startup grants need a smart plan. Knowing who can apply is key because many grants focus on specific groups. This includes startups at the beginning stages and special groups, like women and Hispanics19. It's also smart to match your business plan with what funding programs want. They often support new ideas, mentoring, and growing businesses19. There are funds for different fields like clean tech, oil, gas, and biomedical20.

Make sure your application fits the grant you want. Show how your business meets the grant maker's goals to boost your chance of getting funds. In Texas, being in a certain city can help. Like, energy grants in Houston or IT grants in Dallas20. This way, you show you fit with what the local economy needs, making your application stronger.

Using smart financial strategies in Texas means looking at all options. Considering local and specific grants gives you an advantage. This is especially true for health science or medical tech startups, thanks to Houston's big medical complex20. Veterans and military families have special grants too, supporting their unique needs19. This approach helps you apply to the right places and make a strong case for your startup.

Texas is in a great spot, drawing investors from both coasts. Entrepreneurs should use this by checking out investor networks and joining programs that fit with Texas's dynamic startup scene.

Other Resources for Texas Startups

Texas startups have many resources available besides just money. These resources offer crucial support, new opportunities, and ways to connect with others.

University Partnerships

Texas startups can get a lot from working with universities. For example, the Startup-in-a-Box tool is just for startups doing active research at The University of Texas at Austin21. The Texas Innovation Center helps with programs, places to work, and support for people at UT21.

They also help with events, workshops, one-on-one coaching, and ways to turn technology into business21. Startups can use shared workspaces, desks, and rooms for meetings at the Texas Innovation Center21.

Community Initiatives

Startups based on community work in Texas get a lot from different programs. About 35% of these groups have resources for dealing with COVID-1922. The Amber Grant for Women offers money regularly, including a monthly grant of $10,000 and two yearly grants of $25,00022.

Over 1,500 places for artists to stay and work are supported globally22. Also, programs like the Dallas Residency Program with MassChallenge give access to flexible workspaces and many other benefits at Pegasus Park23. Mentoring programs, like the one from DEC Network, connect entrepreneurs with experienced advisors. This helps the startup community grow23.

ResourceDetailsStartup-in-a-BoxExclusively available for UT Austin-based research startups21Texas Innovation CenterProvides programming, facilities, and co-working spaces21Amber Grant for Women$10,000 monthly; $25,000 annual grants22Artist ResidenciesOver 1,500 residencies supported worldwide22DEC Network’s Mentorship ProgramPairs entrepreneurs with qualified mentors23

Conclusion

Texas is a prime location for startups looking for funding and support. The state is home to the Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF). This fund is known for giving grants from $75,000 to $40 million. These grants help businesses in Texas grow significantly2425.

Also, the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs give crucial money for tech and innovation. This makes Texas a great place for startups to succeed24.

The Young Farmer Grant Program helps young entrepreneurs in agriculture. This keeps Texas's strong farming legacy alive24.

In cities like Houston and Dallas, specific grant programs are available. The Houston Small Business Economic Relief Program helps businesses facing economic hard times. Meanwhile, the Dallas Small Business Grant Program aims to boost local entrepreneurship and growth2425.

Training programs are also key. The Texas Workforce Commission Skills for Small Business program provides up to $1,800 for training per new employee and $900 for each current employee25. With over 3 million small businesses and nearly half of the state's employees working in these businesses, the impact of these programs is huge25.

FAQ

What types of startup funding programs are available in Texas?

Texas has a variety of funding options for startups including grants and special programs. The state and cities like Houston and Dallas offer unique opportunities. Programs such as the Texas Enterprise Fund and STEP help with things like employee training and reaching international markets.

How can startups in Texas access funding through the Texas Enterprise Fund?

The Texas Enterprise Fund helps with projects that create jobs and large investments in Texas. To get this help, your business must fit certain size, job creation, and location requirements. The application period is always open, but watch for deadlines.

What is the Startup Texas Seed Fund and Accelerator Program?

The Startup Texas Seed Fund and Accelerator Program boosts Rio Grande Valley entrepreneurs. Offered by the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation, it aims to grow startups. It encourages teamwork and builds a supportive startup community.

Are there city-specific business grants available in Texas?

Yes, many Texas cities offer grants designed for local businesses. Houston, Dayton, San Antonio, and Lubbock provide support for a variety of needs. These range from buying property to improving digital capabilities and refreshing business areas. Each city has its own rules and grant sizes.

What is the Texas Job Creators Grant?

The Texas Job Creators Grant helps small businesses owned by veterans, women, and those in poorer areas. It gives money each year to help these businesses create jobs and stay open.

What kind of support does the BMO Celebrating Women Grant provide?

The BMO Celebrating Women Grant helps women who own small businesses. They must meet certain rules about how long they've been open and how much money they make. It gives financial awards through a competition.

Who is eligible for the StartHER Grant offered by Texas Women's University Center for Women Entrepreneurs?

The StartHER Grant helps women-owned small businesses with not many workers. It gives money for business costs. This helps these businesses expand and do well.

What assistance does the Veteran Woman Grant Program offer?

The Veteran Woman Grant Program supports businesses owned by women veterans. Texas Women's University runs it, focusing on the leadership of military vets. It's all about helping these businesses grow and last.

What is the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) and how does it benefit Texas businesses?

STEP helps Texas businesses sell more abroad. It offers financial aid for companies to grow their exports. Businesses can get money back for costs of entering or expanding in new markets.

What are some essential tips for accessing startup funding in Texas?

When looking for funding in Texas, know what you need to qualify. Make sure your application matches the grant's needs. Also, fit your business plan to match funding chances. Good research and a smart plan are key.

Are there additional resources for Texas startups beyond direct funding?

Other than money, Texas startups can work with universities and local groups. These partnerships can lead to new ideas, grow your business, and help you succeed. There's lots of support for entrepreneurs in Texas.

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