Business
Business news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
BusinessBrownsville Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors Nominees
The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce held a special meeting on August 4 to approve nominees for its Board of Directors for the fiscal year 2026-2027. The nominees include Mary Ramirez Soto, Chef & Owner of Jolie Petite; Jose Diaz, Senior Manager at Burton McCumber & Longoria, LLP; and Jose A. Garcia from Texas Gas Service. Members can nominate additional candidates by submitting a petition with at least 5% of signatures from the Chamber's 469 members. The nomination period runs from August 6 to August 20, 2026, with elections to follow if valid petitions are submitted.
BusinessGovernor Abbott Kicks Off Tax-Free Weekend In Alamo
Governor Greg Abbott launched Texas' annual Tax-Free Weekend in Alamo, encouraging families to take advantage of tax-free shopping for back-to-school items from August 7 to August 9. Joined by local officials and Walmart representatives, Abbott highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses, which make up over 99% of Texas' economy. He noted that the event is expected to save Texans more than $140 million. Additionally, the Walmart Foundation donated $10,000 and backpacks to PSJA Memorial Early College High School. The tax holiday has saved Texans over $2 billion since its start in 1999.
BusinessGovernor Announces QTS Data Centers Will Meet Texas Standards
Governor Greg Abbott announced that QTS Data Centers will adhere to the standards he set for data center operations in Texas. These guidelines aim to protect the electric grid, conserve water, and maintain the quality of life for residents. Abbott emphasized that data centers must not shift costs onto Texas families or disrupt neighborhoods. He directed the Public Utilities Commission and ERCOT to pause all pending interconnection requests until projects pass a comprehensive audit. Companies like Amazon and Google have expressed commitment to these standards, while Diode announced it would not pursue a proposed center due to non-compliance.
BusinessCity of Edinburg enters partnership with Troon Golf
EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The game of golf in the city of Edinburg is about to get even better. City leaders on Thursday signed a management agreement with Troon Golf, one of the world's leading golf management companies. Notable golf courses in Texas managed by Troon Golf are La Cantera in San Antonio and Tapatio
BusinessSmall Business Hiring Plans Surge to Highest Level Since Late 2022
The NFIB’s July Jobs Report indicates a rebound in the Small Business Employment Index, which rose to 102.1 in July from 100.2 in June, marking the highest level since late 2022. Notably, 36% of small business owners reported unfilled job openings, with 31% seeking skilled workers. Hiring plans have increased significantly, with a net 20% of owners intending to create new jobs in the next three months. However, actual hiring activity saw a slight decline, as 61% of owners reported hiring attempts. Labor quality remains a primary concern, with 27% citing it as their biggest issue.
BusinessSpaceX and Tesla Build Next-Generation Microchip Facility in Texas
SpaceX and Tesla have announced the construction of Terafab, a next-generation microchip facility in Grimes County, Texas. This ambitious project aims to address the growing demand for semiconductors, with an expected requirement of over 1 terawatt of compute power. The facility will span over 100 million square feet and will focus on manufacturing, packaging, and testing advanced chips for applications like AI and autonomous vehicles. Initial investments are projected at $16.8 billion, creating at least 3,000 jobs, primarily for local residents. The project emphasizes environmental stewardship and aims to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities.
BusinessGov. Abbott announces SpaceX expansion in Texas
GRIMES COUNTY, Texas (FOX 44) — Gov. Greg Abbott on Thursday announced that SpaceX will construct a vertically integrated semiconductor fabrication plant in Grimes County. According to the Office of the Governor, the first phase of the Terafab project represents a capital investment of more than $16.8 billion and will create 3,000 new jobs. A
BusinessMcAllen Chamber Recognized for Advancing Entrepreneurship Through 1 Million Cups and FastTrac
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce has received recognition from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for its efforts in fostering entrepreneurship through programs like 1 Million Cups and Kauffman FastTrac. Elizabeth Suarez, president of the Chamber, expressed gratitude for the support and emphasized their commitment to creating opportunities for local entrepreneurs. The Kauffman Foundation, with $2.45 billion in assets, focuses on enhancing local economies by aiding business growth. Since its inception in 2018, 1 Million Cups has provided a platform for entrepreneurs to share ideas and receive feedback, while FastTrac offers essential business education. Over 60 entrepreneurs participated in this year’s FastTrac cohort.
BusinessEdinburg to Break Ground on $7.2M Workforce Center and Golf Clubhouse on Aug. 10th
Edinburg will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for a new $7.2 million Workforce Resource Center and clubhouse at the Ebony Hills Golf Course on August 10, 2026. This project, funded by the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation (EEDC) through its 2019 bond program and sales tax revenues, aims to enhance workforce development and support local businesses. The facility will provide job training, recruitment services, and a centralized location for residents seeking career opportunities. Additionally, the new clubhouse will feature golf simulators and improved amenities for visitors. Construction is expected to be completed by Summer 2027.
BusinessSpaceX Launches $16.8B Terafab Facility, Boosting Texas Economy with 3,000 Jobs
Governor Greg Abbott announced that SpaceX will build a semiconductor fabrication plant in Grimes County, Texas, as part of the Terafab project, which involves a $16.8 billion investment and will create 3,000 jobs. The facility will consolidate semiconductor production and is supported by a $30 million grant from the Texas Enterprise Fund. SpaceX's CEO, Elon Musk, emphasized the significance of this project for chip manufacturing in the U.S. and its potential to produce AI chips. Local school districts are also engaging with SpaceX to ensure educational opportunities for students in the region.
BusinessMexican Avocado Growers Urge U.S. to Reopen Avocado Exports 'As Soon As Possible'
Mexico City – The Association of Producers and Exporters of Avocado from Mexico (Apeam) called on the U.S. government on Thursday to reopen avocado exports, which were suspended after U.S. inspectors withdrew due to a security alert. 'We respectfully urge the U.S. government to work with Mexican authorities to expedite the reopening of the export program,' Apeam stated in a press release. The Mexican avocado industry acknowledged the support of the country's president, Claudia Sheinbaum, who announced increased security measures to protect the personnel responsible for certifying the product. The association committed to adhering 'with the utmost rigor to each of the requirements, protocols, and standards governing the program.'
BusinessCould Lose $200,000: Texas Lottery Winner Still Hasn't Claimed Prize
TEXAS – A winning ticket for the Texas Two Step jackpot, valued at $200,000 from the drawing on March 9, is about to expire. The ticket, which matched all four white ball numbers drawn (1-2-21-23) and the red Bonus Ball number (19), was purchased at H-E-B Food Store 079 Convenience, located at 909 10th St. in Floresville. The prize has yet to be claimed, and the ticket will expire on Saturday, September 5, if it is not validated before the deadline.
BusinessConsumer Reports: Is it time for a new toilet?
Consumer Reports has evaluated a range of toilets, from basic models to advanced smart toilets with features like heated seats and remote controls. Their tests reveal that many modern toilets outperform older versions in efficiency and flushing power. The American Standard Colony 3, priced at $166, is highlighted as a top single-flush option, while the Glacier Bay dual-flush model at $99 is noted for water conservation. For those considering smart toilets, the Horow Smart Toilet at $1,300 is the best performer, but budget-friendly alternatives like bidet seat attachments can offer similar benefits at a lower cost. The Luxe Bidet Neo 320 Plus is recommended at $66.
BusinessPharr Breaks Ground on New Retail Development Along Nolana Loop
Pharr has officially broken ground on a new retail development at 705 W. Nolana Loop, a project in collaboration with Impulso Developments and NAI STX. This initiative aims to enhance the city’s commercial growth, situated next to Dollar Tree and across from Monarch Apartments, ensuring access to a growing residential customer base. Victor Perez, president of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the importance of this investment in the community's future, stating it reflects confidence from developers. The ceremony was attended by city officials and community partners, marking another step in Pharr's economic development.
BusinessPanhandle and South Plains Awarded $8 Million Electric Reliability Grant
The Texas Energy Fund (TxEF) has awarded over $8 million in grants to enhance electric reliability for members of the Bailey County Electric Cooperative Association in the Texas Panhandle and South Plains. This funding will support projects aimed at upgrading 2,000 transmission poles to withstand high winds and improving approximately two miles of transmission lines. Governor Abbott emphasized the importance of this grant in strengthening Texas's electrical infrastructure. The initiative will benefit residents in Bailey, Castro, Cochran, Lamb, and Parmer Counties, ensuring more reliable power delivery and reduced outage times.
BusinessTexas Shows Strengths and Gaps in Multi-Metric Business Rankings
Texas continues to excel in various economic rankings, often leading in corporate locations, CEO perceptions, and investment. However, a recent CNBC report assessing 138 metrics across ten categories reveals mixed results. Texas ranks 12th in Infrastructure, 2nd in Economy, and 1st in Workforce, but falls significantly in Quality of Life at 49th and 32nd in Education. These lower rankings highlight challenges in healthcare access, childcare availability, and discrimination laws, which could impact the state's long-term prosperity. While Texas improved to 2nd overall in the 2025 rankings, its recent drop to 4th serves as a reminder of the work needed for future sustainability.
BusinessDiscover the Best of the 956 at the 2026 Business to Botana Expo, Aug. 20th
The Brownsville Chamber of Commerce invites the community to the 2026 Business to Botana Expo on August 20th at the Brownsville Events Center. This free event will showcase local businesses and culinary delights, allowing attendees to explore products and services from innovative companies. Visitors can enjoy samples from top local restaurants and participate in voting for the 956 Made Recognitions, which celebrate the best in the community. Business owners can reserve booths to promote their brands, while restaurants can showcase their offerings for free by providing samples. Join in for a day of networking and local flavor!
Business$786 Million at Stake: Powerball Draws a Historic Jackpot Tonight
The Powerball lottery is set to draw a historic $786 million tonight, marking the ninth largest jackpot in its history after 40 draws without a winner. To win, players must match six numbers and can choose between a lump sum of $341.6 million or the full amount paid over 30 years. Each ticket costs $2, with an optional $1 Power Play to multiply secondary prizes. The odds of winning the jackpot are 1 in 292,201,338. Drawings occur every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. ET. State taxes on winnings vary, with some states having no tax at all.
BusinessPretty inconvenient: RGV smoke shops clear shelves as Texas outlaws hemp-derived THC products
Texas has implemented a ban on several hemp-derived THC products, effective July 31, following a Supreme Court ruling. Items such as delta-8, delta-10, and THCA flower are now illegal, while delta-9 THC remains permissible if under 0.3% THC by dry weight. Irving Aquino, manager of Cyberskunk Smokeshop in McAllen, reported having to remove many popular products from shelves, which significantly impacts profits, especially for smaller shops. Hidalgo County District Attorney Terry Palacios warned that local agencies can now arrest individuals for possessing banned products, highlighting the serious consequences for first-time offenders. Shops are now focusing on legal products to stay afloat.