About Us

Mission

Enhance the economic landscape in the RGV by bringing together university and industry; fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, commercialization, and collaboration to leverage opportunities for entrepreneurs & enterprises.

Vision

Build a regional network that supports entrepreneurs and communities by developing knowledge, cultivating partnerships & supporting global initiatives.

Core Values

  • Ethics
  • Innovative
  • Diverse community
  • Commitment
  • Adaptable
  • Excellence in service
  • Growth
  • Partnerships
  • Empathy

Services FAQs

We provide entrepreneurial training, business coaching, commercialization support, community programs, pitch competitions, access to resources, mentorship opportunities, and connections to regional partners across the Rio Grande Valley.
No. Our services are open to students, alumni, and community entrepreneurs throughout the region.
Coaching is not a stand-alone service. It is available exclusively through our Membership services, which include access to business advising. To schedule a session, please email hania.uriegas01@utrgv.edu
No. We do not take equity from any company or entrepreneur who participates in ECC programs. We only require monthly payments based on the membership level you qualify for.
While we do not provide direct funding or invest in companies, we help entrepreneurs navigate funding options, prepare for pitches, identify grant opportunities, and connect with regional partners, pitch competitions, and funding organizations that may offer capital.
While we do not act as a sales agency, we help entrepreneurs strengthen their business model, identify customer segments, refine value propositions, develop marketing strategies, and connect with ecosystem partners who support business growth.
Our mentorship opportunities are available through select programs and our Membership services. We connect entrepreneurs with experienced professionals, industry experts, and ecosystem partners who provide guidance, feedback, and support tailored to their business goals.
No. The ECC does not process LLCs or provide legal advice. However, we offer guidance through education and access to our network of professionals who can assist with business formation, legal services, and next steps.
We support both early-stage startups and established businesses looking to grow, scale, or improve operations.

Membership FAQs

Our Incubation Membership is designed for entrepreneurs who are actively building or growing their business and want access to coaching, mentorship, programs, and resources. Members receive guidance, connections to partners, and structured support to help move their business forward.
The Soft Landing Membership is ideal for businesses entering the Rio Grande Valley market from outside the region or internationally. It provides market navigation support, introductions to local partners, and access to the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem to help companies establish a presence in the RGV.
Yes. Memberships have a monthly fee, and the cost depends on whether you qualify for the Incubation Membership or the Soft Landing Membership. Each membership type offers different levels of support and services.
Workspace access is not offered as a stand-alone service. Access to workspace, advising, mentorship, and programs is provided only through active ECC membership.
You may be a strong fit if you have:

A clear business idea or existing business

Commitment to grow, test, or scale your company

Interest in coaching, mentorship, and structured entrepreneurial support

Goals that align with our education-driven model

If you’re unsure, our team can help assess your fit.
Mentorship meetings are focused, goal-oriented sessions where you receive guidance, feedback, and industry insight. These meetings help refine strategy, problem-solve challenges, and identify next steps. Mentorship supports your coaching—not replaces it.
No. The ECC supports businesses across a wide range of industries, including service, retail, technology, creative, food-based, logistics, and more. If your business can benefit from education and support, you may be a good fit.
ECC membership is a strong match if you:

Are actively building or growing your business

Want structured support through coaching, programs, and mentorship

Value accountability, education, and community

Need access to a network of partners and regional resources

We can help determine fit through a discovery meeting.