NEWSLETTER



April 26, 2024

Economic Development Week

May 6th through May 10, 2024

Celebrate Economic Development Week and El Paso's Progress!

We are thrilled to announce that Economic Development Week, a nationally recognized initiative by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) since 2016, is upon us!


In El Paso, economic growth and community development are paramount, led by our dedicated Economic Development Team and Entrepreneurial Support Organization (ESO) partners. These priorities have transformed El Paso into a hub of opportunity and prosperity, attracting diverse industries like manufacturing, tech, and renewable energy through strategic initiatives.


This upcoming week is a special tribute to our economic development professionals and the impactful work they contribute to our community.


On Tuesday of this week, Mayor Leeser read a proclamation recognizing the tangible results of our economic development initiatives. Our team supports retaining and expanding business, focused on job creation, and implements sustainability efforts to enhance our quality of life.


Let's celebrate our city's growth and ongoing projects together during this special week. Join us in shaping our thriving community and honoring our local heroes! #EconDevWeek2024

Small Business Assistance Division

The Department of Economic Development has been a dedicated supporter of Pioneers 21, formerly known as the Hub of Human Innovation, since its establishment in 2011. On Monday of this week, City Council approved the renewal of their Chapter 380 agreement, enabling Pioneers 21 to craft and execute a four-year strategic plan. This plan is geared towards ensuring continuity, sustainability, and growth, all in alignment with their core objectives.

 

Pioneers 21 offers a comprehensive array of programs and services to strengthen local entrepreneurs and businesses. These include access to expert community partners, advisors, and mentors through the Business Incubator. Additionally, they provide workshops covering topics such as Innovation + AI, MIT Venture Mentoring Service, P21 Prep Sessions + Pitch Challenge, Financial Accelerator, Digital Marketing Program, and the Innovation Workshops Series (IWS). Furthermore, Pioneers 21 offers P21 VMS, a mentoring service specifically tailored for entrepreneurs in the Borderland region, authorized by MIT Venture Mentoring Service. These initiatives collectively strive to empower startups and small businesses, facilitating access to seasoned mentors and fostering the growth and success of their ventures.

Business Attraction

Destination Entertainment

This Tuesday, marks a significant milestone as the Mayor and City Council unveil an innovative public-private partnership with Notes Live, Inc., a distinguished leader in music venues and hospitality. This partnership brings to fruition the Sunset Amphitheater, an $80-million air amphitheater, as part of the Cohen Entertainment District Master Plan.


We are thrilled to announce the approval of a $30.9 million performance-based incentive agreement, a testament to our commitment to economic growth. Anticipated to generate a remarkable $5.4 billion impact, this initiative underscores our relentless efforts to revitalize Northeast El Paso.


Scheduled to debut in the 2026 touring season, the 12,500-capacity venue will elevate our city's profile with unparalleled hospitality, cutting-edge audio-visual experiences, and gourmet dining options. Mayor Oscar Leeser's vision for enhancing quality of life and fostering prosperity through strategic partnerships comes to life with this landmark project. We are excited to collaborate with JW Roth, CEO of Notes Live, in attracting world-class talent to our vibrant, multicultural community.

Business Expansion

Groundbreaking Ceremony for Grupo Bafar Distribution Center

This week we celebrated the groundbreaking ceremony for Grupo Bafar's new Distribution Center in El Paso, Texas. This Mexican-based food company, with over 40 years of experience in Chihuahua, employs over 14,000 associates globally and conducts significant trade with the US market.


The new center will renovate and repurpose the old Kasco Structures facility into a 61,000 square-foot cold storage, warehouse, and administrative hub, retaining 155 full-time jobs and creating 120 new positions. Grupo Bafar is committed to sustainability, with 95% of power needs met by solar energy. Future expansion includes the establishment of 50 grocery stores across El Paso and Texas within 5 years. This project signifies a minimum investment of $21,332,150 into the El Paso economy and underscores Grupo Bafar's commitment to community growth and employment opportunities.


Join us in celebrating this milestone!

Information from our partners...

Meet the Pitch Winners!


Get ready to connect with innovative entrepreneurs and discover groundbreaking ideas.



REGISTER

Lets celebrate the relationship between Fort Bliss and the El Paso Community.


This Inaugural Armed Forces Day event is open to active-duty military, veterans, and community members. As the saying goes – El Paso is

Fort Bliss and Fort Bliss is El Paso.

REGISTER

Join the 20th Annual International Women’s Business Symposium!


Elevate your knowledge, and inspire others in our dynamic learning forum composed of many strong and wise women from our community.

REGISTER

This dynamic event is tailored for small business owners and leaders in El Paso, offering morning and afternoon sessions both in-person and virtually.


Delve into cultural dynamics, network with diverse entrepreneurs, and gain strategic insights to grow your business.

REGISTER

Maximize your company's potential with Workforce Business Solutions' "TRAIN TO GAIN" program!


It encompasses tuition, curriculum, instructor fees, and materials, providing a comprehensive 12-months boost to employee skills and productivity.

 

REGISTER

MED Week 2024 Awards Ceremony & Grand Finale Reception, celebrates the achievements of standout businesses in our community!


It's an opportunity to network, celebrate diversity, and recognize excellence.

REGISTER

Free SizeUp Demos (April 28-May 4): Spread awareness in your community with our free Economic Development Week demos.


Open Office Hours: Replacing webinars, we'll be hosting live Q&A sessions for your businesses - Share the link sizeup.info/openhouse

REGISTER

Check out Project Vida's Economic Development Program, fostering small businesses offering tailored business solutions, enriching seminars, and vital support services for entrepreneurial growth and prosperity.

VISIT THEIR SITE

Join Walk About Wednesday on May 8th, a community-driven initiative supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs, including engaging with the Chamber's Business Retention & Expansion Program.


Or enroll in an alternate site visit to engage further with the BRE initiative.

VISIT THEIR SITE

Discover profitable strategies for organizing and growing a small business, covering areas such as strategic planning, marketing, human resources, business financials, and business contract law.


January 30 - May 02

(Tuesdays and Thursdays) 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Pre-registration required. Call (915) 831-7742

VISIT THEIR SITE

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