Harlingen EDC relaunches small business site improvement grant

HARLINGEN, TEXAS (December 1, 2023) — The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is excited to announce the relaunch of their small business matching grant program, Revitalize Harlingen. An incentive grant, Revitalize Harlingen provides up to $10,000 for facade improvements made by eligible commercial businesses or property owners. 

The program was first launched in January of 2023 as the brainchild of Mayor Norma Sepulveda and the City of Harlingen to rejuvenate targeted areas in the city and encourage reinvestment by small businesses to attract more customers and increase revenues.  

The relaunch of the program follows the success of the first round, which supported 16 recipients in Harlingen through new signage, landscaping, and other exterior improvements. Improvements made by these recipients totaled over $400,000 with the Harlingen EDC having contributed $116,403. 

To build off momentum of the first round and meet the needs of the small business community, the second round of increased funding will include the initial qualifying zone along with expanded areas in Harlingen. 

“Revitalize Harlingen has proven to be a huge success, and I am thrilled to see it not only return for a second round but to expand with more funding and an additional zone,” said Mayor Norma Sepulveda. “This initiative aligns with our city’s commitment to spur economic growth in the area and cultivate a vibrant, welcoming environment for the community.” 

Recognizing the importance of small businesses and their unique contributions to Harlingen’s appeal, the Harlingen EDC invites qualifying businesses to take advantage of the opportunity to enhance their sites and storefronts. 

“Our team is eager to continue this support and further invigorate our local business districts,” said Harlingen EDC CEO, Orlando Campos. “Small businesses are encouraged to initiate the application process and reach out for guidance. We’re here to make the process as smooth as possible." 

Eligible renovation costs in the qualifying zones must have occurred or will occur from December 1, 2023, through August 31, 2024. A pre-approval application must be submitted to determine if the site improvements are eligible for grant funds, and the project must be approved by the Harlingen EDC staff prior to beginning any improvements.  

To learn if your business qualifies, review complete guidelines, and find pre-approval/funding applications, visit www.harlingenedc.com/revitalizeharlingen. 

—

FOR MEDIA INQUIRIES:  

Orlando Campos   

Chief Executive Officer 

Harlingen Economic Development Corporation   

ocampos@harlingenedc.com