BROWNSVILLE, Texas – Career Bridge, a group that has helped McAllen Economic Development Corporation with its marketing efforts in Mexico, is one of the finalists for the $40,000 StartUp Texas Innovation Competition.
The StartUp Texas Innovation Competition is run by the Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC), in partnership with Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station (TEES) and UTRGV’s Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center.
The six participating entrepreneurs and their companies in the StartUp Texas Innovation Competition are:
• Ethan Atlan – AccuCell Biotechnology: AccuCell Biotechnology leverages NASA technology to develop in-vitro devices that biomimic human tissues, revolutionizing drug discovery and reducing animal testing. These customizable micro-organ devices improve accuracy in research and reduce reliance on animal trials.
• Javier Becerril – Sensapath: Sensapath is an innovative assistive technology for the visually impaired, using AI and computer vision to enhance users’ independence and situational awareness through a hands-free, easy-to-use system.
• Stephanie Pazos – Heroica Technologies: Heroica Technologies is leading the next generation of photonics, with research and development efforts in improving photonic integrated circuits, chemical sensors, infrared imaging systems, and optical communication systems.
• Arnie Tyler – MerLion Advisory Group: MerLion Advisory Group specializes in marine technology, using unmanned systems to deliver sensors that enhance maritime safety, security, and ecosystem sustainability by providing critical insights into underwater environments.
• Douglas Best – The Partnership Institute: The Partnership Institute focuses on educational content development, creating engaging, high-quality distance learning experiences, addressing bilingual education needs, and repurposing movie-quality animation assets.
• Eloy Garza – Career Bridge: Career Bridge connects students, teachers, and businesses to create real-world learning experiences, helping to bridge the gap between education and careers by integrating hands-on learning and career development opportunities.
The StartUp Texas Innovation Competition takes place on Thursday, September 12, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the eBridge Center for Business & Commercialization, located at 1304 E. Adams St., Brownsville, Texas.
Nathan Burkhart, vice president of innovation and entrepreneurship at BCIC, said the event will highlight the entrepreneurial talents of the local innovators who will compete for funding of up to $40,000 for their innovative business ideas.
Burkhart pointed out that the event is free and open to the public. He said it offers a unique opportunity to network with innovative entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members. He said attendees will also get the chance to witness the future of the RGV’s startup ecosystem and the most innovative ideas shaping the region.
“The success of the StartUp Texas program has boosted the growing momentum of the entrepreneurial spirit not just in Brownsville but throughout the RGV,” said Nathan Burkhart, vice president of innovation and entrepreneurship at BCIC.
“What sets our program apart is that it goes beyond traditional accelerator programs —it equips local innovators with both the guidance and funding they need to succeed, while also strengthening our local economy through job creation and business growth. We’re incredibly proud of the entrepreneurs’ accomplishments and excited to see how far their innovative ideas will go.”
To attend, RSVP at rsvp.startuptexas.com.
BCIC’s Burkhart said the competition is the culmination of an intensive ten-week StartUp Texas Accelerator Program, during which participants have refined their business models, market strategies, and financial projections under the guidance of seasoned mentors and the UTRGV ECC team.
Burkhart said the program provides resources and networking opportunities, positioning startups for success in the grant application process.
Cori Peña, president and CEO of BCIC, said that since its inception, the StartUp Texas program has awarded over $500,000 to 23 businesses, helping to foster entrepreneurship and innovation in the Rio Grande Valley.
Peña noted that the program is recognized nationally, having earned the Gold Rank Award in the Entrepreneurship category at the 2021 International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference.
”The StartUp Texas Innovation Competition is a testament to the entrepreneurial talent and drive present in our region,” Peña said. “By providing a platform for these innovative startups, we are accelerating their growth and laying the foundation for a more dynamic and resilient local economy. This event highlights the importance of nurturing homegrown talent and the impact they can have on industries both locally and globally.”
About StartUp Texas
The StartUp Texas Program is an intensive accelerator that helps innovative companies navigate the complexities of the SBIR/STTR funding application process. It connects entrepreneurs with invaluable mentorship, tailored resources, and a network of local leaders and researchers. BCIC, in collaboration with TEES and UTRGV’s Entrepreneurship & Commercialization Center, makes the program possible. For more information, please visit www.startuptexas.com.
About BCIC
The Brownsville Community Improvement Corporation (BCIC) is a Type B economic development organization dedicated to connecting people, organizations, and economic resources to elevate the quality of life in Brownsville. For more information about available programs, visit www.brownsvillecic.com.
