UTRGV launches business growth competition: RISE Up Harlingen

HARLINGEN, Texas ( ValleyCentral ) — The University of Rio Grande Valley is giving an opportunity for entrepreneurs to start up their local business in Harlingen.

RISE Up Harlingen Pitch Competition is an ongoing program for existing businesses looking to grow with a chance to win significant grant awards.

“Think of it as Harlingen’s very own ‘Shark Tank’!,” said Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda.

Entrepreneurs interested in growing their local business in the Harlingen area will gather on Mondays to receive crucial assistance from the UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center.

Lita Garcia, owner of meal prep business Boca Chewlita, is one of several entrepreneurs who have been attending the program meetings.

“I just thought that it would be a good experience. Really needing the funds to start a business is really hard,” Garcia said. “The fact that they are giving the opportunity to give us a grant. Hopefully, this will start my business off on the on the right path.”

The prize amounts for the winners are $30,000 for first place, $20,000 for second place and $15,000 for third place.

“This competition represents a significant step in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within our community,” said Linda Ufland, Director of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Commercialization at UTRGV.

The weekly Monday meetings will continue until the RISE Up Harlingen Pitch Competition scheduled for Thursday, October 3.

“We look forward to seeing the transformative ideas that our participants will bring to the table,” Ufland said.

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