Equip Harlingen grant program to support business expansion

HARLINGEN, TEXAS (March 1, 2024) — The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is excited to unveil a new matching grant program, Equip Harlingen, which aims to support the expansion efforts of existing small businesses. 

The Equip Harlingen incentive grant will provide up to $3,000 in matching grants to qualifying business owners seeking to enhance their production capabilities through the acquisition of new equipment. The grant funds can be utilized for the purchase of a wide range of equipment, including but not limited to stoves, ovens, refrigerators, lathes, table saws, tooling machines and plastic injection molding machines.   

“Equip Harlingen underscores our commitment to supporting the growth and success of our business community and creating a stronger environment that shows Harlingen is pro-business,” said Orlando Campos, CEO of the Harlingen EDC. “By helping fund equipment upgrades, we hope to empower established enterprises to boost their productivity and remain competitive in today’s market.” 

Like many of the Harlingen EDC’s incentives, the purpose of the matching grant funds is to encourage the retention and creation of jobs for businesses in the City of Harlingen and stimulate further economic activity. The program incentivizes business owners to increase production and generate more sales by reimbursing up to 50% of their equipment costs, to a maximum of $3,000, if approved. 

“Harlingen isn’t just a place to start a business; it’s a community that actively supports entrepreneurs,” expressed Javier De Leon, who serves as the Harlingen EDC’s Board President. “Through programs like Equip Harlingen, we’re making it easier than ever for people to choose Harlingen as the premier destination for their business, knowing they have the resources and support they need to thrive.” 

To be eligible for Equip Harlingen funding, businesses must have been operating for at least one full year before the application date and demonstrate how new equipment will help expand their production. The grant cannot be used to replace existing equipment.

Pre-approval applications will be accepted from March 1, 2024 through August 31, 2024, and the equipment must be approved by the Harlingen EDC team prior to purchase. 

Interested businesses are encouraged to visit www.HarlingenEDC.com/EquipHarlingen to learn more about the eligibility criteria and application process. 

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FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:   

Orlando Campos    

Chief Executive Officer  

Harlingen Economic Development Corporation    

ocampos@harlingenedc.com