Description
The UTRGV Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center (ECC) is a university-linked entrepreneurial support hub based at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley that serves founders, students, alumni, and community entrepreneurs with business coaching, commercialization resources, mentoring, workshops, incubator membership, and ecosystem connections. ECC’s mission is to help entrepreneurs start, grow, and commercialize ventures while facilitating access to funding networks, pitch competitions, and regional entrepreneurial infrastructure.
Eligibility
• Entrepreneurs and founder teams (students, alumni, and community members) with interest in starting or growing a business.
• Idea to early market ventures seeking mentorship, structuring, and ecosystem support.
• Eligible for incubator membership and specific program tracks regardless of UTRGV affiliation (community entrepreneurs included).
• Competitions are often open to students or regional founders with idea or plan proposals.
Process
Application (Membership/Programs): Entrepreneurs apply via ECC’s membership or specific programs (e.g., incubator, accelerator path, or competitions).
Advising & Coaching: ECC provides business coaching, mentor pairings, and workshops tailored to business needs.
Program Participation: Founders engage in structured programs (AdvanceUp Accelerator, StartUp Texas, etc.).
Competitions & Pitching: Entrepreneurs refine pitches for competitions and community showcases with prize opportunities.
Ecosystem Networking: Members connect to partners at the eBridge Center for Business and Commercialization and broader regional networks for funding access, mentoring, and industry linkages.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ Access to business coaching and mentoring with experienced professionals.
✔ Incubator membership with workspace, guidance, and tailored support.
✔ Participation in accelerator-style curriculum (AdvanceUp, StartUp Texas) with mentoring and practical guidance.
✔ Pitch competitions and demo events with cash prizes and visibility.
✔ Networking and resource access through ecosystem partners such as eBridge Center and Brownsville community collaboratives.
✔ Guidance toward funding options (investor connections, pitch prep, grant navigation).
