RGV Startup Week 2026: A Major Initiative for Entrepreneurs in the Rio Grande Valley
The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) and The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center (UTRGV ECC) have jointly announced an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs in South Texas: RGV Startup Week 2026. This annual event is set to take place from April 24 to May 1, 2026, across various locations in Brownsville and its partner cities throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
What to Expect at RGV Startup Week 2026
Just like in previous editions, RGV Startup Week will focus on entrepreneurship and business development, making it an essential platform for local entrepreneurs. The 2026 event aims to build on the impressive success of 2025, when the week-long initiative featured over 123 hours of activities and engaged 403,172 unique social media accounts, amassing a whopping 3.56 million views of its content.
Previous Success Stories
In 2025, RGV Startup Week attracted more than 1,800 registrants and provided the entrepreneurial community with valuable networking opportunities. Attendees also enjoyed 40,000 minutes of streamed video content related to various aspects of business development. As Cori Peña, CEO and President of BCIC, notes, “The momentum is undeniable. This year, we’re excited to build on that reach and enhance the experience for all participants.”
Opportunities for Attendees
Speaker Applications Now Open
As part of its commitment to delivering high-quality content, RGV Startup Week 2026 is currently accepting speaker applications. Potential speakers are encouraged to submit proposals for talks, workshops, panels, and interactive sessions that resonate with entrepreneurs at every stage of their journeys. The deadline to apply is January 20, 2026. Interested parties can apply via this link.
Linda Ufland, Director of Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Commercialization at UTRGV ECC, emphasizes the importance of community involvement in shaping the event: “With more than 160 speakers and 95 sessions in our last edition, RGV Startup Week has grown into a truly diverse learning experience. Opening the call for speakers in our region is how we ensure the content stays relevant.”
Sponsorship and Volunteer Opportunities
The organization is also extending sponsorship invitations at various levels, along with single-session and in-kind options. Sponsorship provides an excellent opportunity for businesses to support regional entrepreneurship while increasing brand visibility among a rapidly growing audience. Furthermore, volunteer opportunities and other ways to participate will be announced soon.
Why Attend RGV Startup Week 2026?
Participating in RGV Startup Week is more than just attending events; it’s about becoming part of a vibrant ecosystem dedicated to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. It provides essential networking, resources, and support, creating pathways for aspiring founders and established businesses alike.
Overall, RGV Startup Week stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local organizations to uplift the entrepreneurial spirit in the Rio Grande Valley. Whether you’re an entrepreneur seeking knowledge or an investor looking to support innovation, this event promises to deliver unparalleled opportunities.
For more information and updates, check out the BCIC website.
This comprehensive initiative showcases the growing landscape of entrepreneurship in the heart of Texas and promises to be a highlight of 2026. Prepare to engage, learn, and network with other innovators at RGV Startup Week!
