The Mission Economic Development Corporation awarded $200,000 to 15 small businesses in Mission to help them expand their operations, hire new personnel and carry out facility improvement projects.
Nearly 100 existing businesses in Mission applied for the Ruby Red Ventures – Build Mission Fund grant to receive up to $15,000 in grant funding. The application phase opened in November 2023 and was followed by a slection process that was carried out by a committee of local business development professionals.
Eligible businesses had to be located within Mission city limits; have fewer than 30 employees; produce less than $1 million in annual revenue; be legally registered and in good standing with local tax entities; in operation for at least two years and possess tax returns for 2021 and 2022.
Grants were disbursed based on merit, with consideration given to job creation, innovation, need, uniqueness, and overall community enhancement.
Mission EDC first launched Ruby Red Ventures in 2013 as a competition modeled after the hit TV show Shark Tank. Since then, the initiative has awarded about $800,000 to more than 50 small businesses in Mission.
List of Recipients: Bike Masters, Hands in Art Studio, Mycological Solutions, Taqueria Oviedo, Papi Chulo’s Barber Shop, 9Round, The Pocket, Marco’s Burgers, Brianna’s Beauty Salon, RGV Healthy Vending, RGV Powerhouse, Dapper Dog Grooming, Serenity Flowers & Gifts, Clean Tech Auto Care Supplies, and Soiree by Sophia.
