North Texas is a big place with plenty of opportunities. Here’s a curated roundup of contests and competitions; accelerator and recognition programs; and resource and grant opportunities for North Texas innovators. 

Sign up for our e-newsletter to stay in the loop. Information from the organizations is compiled by Dallas Innovates, and things can change: Confirm all deadlines and information with the organizations.

Know of a deadline coming up? Tell us about it here.

DEADLINE: DECEMBER 5

Halperin Park Walk of Fame

Halperin Park is a new five-acre deck park under construction in Southern Dallas (Oak Cliff) that is being built over Interstate 35E, adjacent to the Dallas Zoo. It is designed to reconnect the community, spur economic development, and offer amenities like a playground, performance pavilion, and food truck areas. The first phase is slated to open in early 2026.

The park’s main pedestrian pathway, known as the 12th Street Promenade, will feature a “Walk of Fame” to honor individuals who have significantly shaped Oak Cliff’s past, present, and future.

Nominations were recently open to the public, with a deadline of December 5. The Walk of Fame is part of the park’s larger purpose to celebrate the history and culture of the Oak Cliff community. The Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation is managing the park and its Walk of Fame.

Learn more and nominate someone here.

DEADLINE: DECEMBER 19

Dallas Innovates 2026 AI 75

Dallas-Fort Worth is charting its own path in artificial intelligence. From applied AI to research and engineering advances, our region leads in advancing real-world solutions. Behind every breakthrough and solution are the people making it happen.

For the third year, Dallas Innovates, in partnership with the Dallas Regional Chamber, will spotlight 75 people leading AI innovation in North Texas. These local pioneers—from startups, corporations, nonprofits, and research labs—will be revealed at an AI 75 2026 event during Convergence AI Dallas (March 30-31, 2026). The annual list of innovators will be published on Dallas Innovates.

Being named to AI 75 2026 means recognition among the region’s most innovative minds, who are shaping the future of AI in Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond. We’re seeking nominations in these seven categories:

AI Visionary: Leaders and thought leaders shaping the future of AI.
AI Maverick: Pioneers inventing novel AI technologies.
AI Transformer: Practitioners revolutionizing industries through AI adoption.
AI Champion: Community leaders and allies supporting the growth of AI.
AI Catalyst: Investors powering advancements in AI innovation.
AI Research Pioneer: Scientists and academics on the cutting edge of new AI discoveries.
AI Impact Innovator: AI for good; socially conscious AI applications.

Eligible individuals are North Texans who have made significant contributions to artificial intelligence in the last 12 months, whether through groundbreaking research, innovative research, catalytic efforts, or transformative solutions. Previous AI 75 honorees are generally ineligible for re-nomination. However, we may consider those with new roles or significant new contributions that clearly depart from prior achievements.

See the 2025 honorees here.

Learn more and apply here.

EARLY BIRD DEADLINE: DECEMBER 20

EarthX E-Capital Summit 2026

The annual E-Capital Summit is an invitation-only sustainability-focused investment and industry innovation summit that has convened, inspired, and catalyzed action from more than 3,200 of the country’s and world’s leading investors, innovators, dealmakers, industry, and broader innovation & investment ecosystem professionals from over 40 states and 25 countries (including active participation from more than 570 leading investors and more than 630 emerging innovators).

The 2026 E-Capital Summit will continue to build on momentum of the past nine Summits and will continue to focus on catalyzing action and meaningful connections. The Summit is expected to convene ~400 attendees comprised of: 1/3 investors (~50% family offices/HNWIs), 1/3 innovators (both early-stage and growth-stage companies), and the remaining 1/3 will represent corporate & industry leaders, policymakers, incubators & accelerators, and others in the broader innovation & investment ecosystem. The invitation-only audience will continue to be diverse and high-quality: 50% of attendees will come from outside Texas, nearly half of attendees will be growth-stage focused, more than half of attendees will be new and personally invited by the EarthX team based on hundreds of meetings and personal outreach. Speakers and sponsors will be announced in the coming months.

You can apply as an innovator, investor, dealmaker, industry leader, or as a member of the innovation ecosystem.

Apply by December 20 to get Early Bird pricing for the summit. Learn more here.

DEADLINE: JANUARY 15, 2026

Mergers & Acquisitions Awards

For a thirteenth consecutive year, D CEO and the Association for Corporate Growth-DFW are recognizing the top mergers and acquisitions in North Texas—and the dealmakers who made them happen. Deals must have closed in 2025 and have a significant North Texas tie.

Awards will go to deals of the year and dealmakers. Deals are broken into five categories, based on the value of the acquisition, from $25 million to over $1 billion.

Dealmaker of the Year categories are:

DEADLINE: JANUARY 20, 2026

Presidential AI Challenge

The Presidential AI Challenge is a national challenge where K-12 youth, educators, mentors, and community teams come together to solve real-world problems in their communities using AI-powered solutions with an opportunity to showcase their solutions at a national level. Students and educators of all backgrounds and expertise are encouraged to participate and ignite a new spirit of innovation as we celebrate 250 years of independence and look forward to the next 250 years.

On April 23, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order (EO) 14277, “Advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) Education for American Youth,” with the goal of maintaining America’s global dominance in this technological revolution for future generations. This EO directed the establishment of the Presidential AI Challenge (Challenge) to foster interest and expertise in AI technology in America’s youth. Early training in the responsible use of AI tools will demystify this technology and prepare America’s students to be confident participants in the AI-assisted workforce, propelling our Nation to new heights of scientific innovation and economic achievement.

Learn more about the challenge here, eligibility here, and important dates here.

DEADLINE: JANUARY 31, 2026

Capital One Auto Mobility Accelerator Program

If you are an early-stage startup focused on the mobility industry or any related services, apply today. The Mobility Accelerator will help fine-tune your business plans and pitch decks while building professional connections that enable you to create a foundation for future funding.

The accelerator is designed to support innovative businesses — because innovation unlocks greater access and inclusivity in communities. When businesses thrive, jobs are created, economies are strengthened and the ripple effects create stronger communities.

That is why Capital One is supporting startups in the mobility industry through two program offerings: the idea-stage and growth cohorts. Whether you are at the idea stage or have a venture you are ready to grow, each of these will help propel your idea or business forward.

Applications close on 1/31, and the program kicks off in late March 2026.

Learn more here.

FROM OUR PARTNERS

[Illustration: istockphoto, Dallas Next Studio]

YOUR PROJECTS, UTD SENIOR TALENT

 

Fuel Your Business With Innovative Solutions in AI, Engineering, Computer Science, and More

Hosted by The University of Texas at Dallas
UTDesign Capstone, The Jonsson School
→ Submit a brief project proposal now for the next semester. Space is limited.

UTDesign senior student teams are ready to tackle company projects, from prototypes to tech hurdles.

The University of Texas at Dallas’ UTDesign Capstone program is your secret weapon. Partner with student talent to supercharge your projects, from AI-driven automation to cutting-edge robotics. Whether you’re a startup developing a prototype, a corporate team clearing a backlog, or a tech leader scouting future hires, these multidisciplinary teams are ready to take your challenges head-on.

Why partner with UTDesign?

•Diverse expertise: Teams tailored to your project, spanning AI, AR, robotics, bioengineering, computer science, and more.
•Innovation on demand: Access to UTD’s 45,000 sq. ft. open lab and cutting-edge fabrication tools.
•Proven success: Organizations like UTSW, Toyota, Texas Instruments, and startups alike commend the program’s tangible impact.
•Ownership advantage: You retain full IP rights for all project outcomes.

Submit in advance—spots fill quickly!

Submitting a project proposal is simple and comes with no obligation—just an opportunity to explore how UTDesign Capstone can move your business forward.

Learn more and apply now.

APPLICATIONS ACCEPTED ON A ROLLING BASIS

Dallas Residency Program with MassChallenge

If you’re a member of the MassChallenge community and in need of office space, the Dallas Residency Program is open. Members of the MC community can take advantage of the chance to occupy space in Pegasus Park. The residency program offers access to flex desks in the Health Wildcatters office, designated office amenities, and engagement with a community of innovators in Dallas. The MassChallenge residency program is open to current cohort members, MassChallenge alumni, experts affiliated with MassChallenge, community or ecosystem partners, and startup founders who have applied or plan to apply to at least one program during their residency term.

Complete an interest form here.

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EmpowHer Grants

EmpowHer grants support women who need early-stage business capital, a network of business advisors, or both. Grantees will have access to financial, marketing, leadership, and sector professionals who can advise on business focus, next steps, and longer-range planning. As an entrepreneur, you’re not alone: our network is full of people who have been in your shoes.

Female entrepreneurs 22 years of age and older with businesses registered and operating solely in the United States are eligible for this program from the Boundless Futures Foundation, which offers up to $25,000 in reimbursable business support. An applicant’s business must make a social impact through its product or business model, must be earning revenue, and must not be more than 3 years old. 

Learn more here.

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Present Your Startup Story at 1 Million Cups

Every week, 1MC hears from entrepreneurs over a cup of coffee, and you have the opportunity to tell your story.  Entrepreneurs present business ideas to the local community and learn how those around them can support their business in its growth. The local 1 Million Cups (1MC) community gives you the opportunity to refine your elevator pitch to a diverse audience, access training programs, and engage with a network for support. Find your local community here. In North Texas, you’ll find multiple 1MC groups in locations including Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Frisco, Northeast Tarrant County, and Wichita Falls.

APPLY TO PRESENT (be sure to sign in or register first!)

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National Science Foundation’s America’s Seed Fund

America’s Seed Fund distributes about $200 million a year to small businesses and startups with great ideas. Applicants may submit project pitches at any time during the year. If invited to submit a full proposal, the owner/entrepreneur could end up with as much as $2 million in seed funding.

Learn how to get started here.

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HB Communities for Change

If you’re a minority small business owner or entrepreneur and are looking for business-related legal services, check out HB Communities for Change. 

HB Communities for Change is committed to promoting economic empowerment among qualifying underrepresented businesses, including minority-owned businesses and nonprofits, in under-resourced communities across the county. The firm provides pro bono legal representation designed to empower these enterprises, spur job creation, and expand opportunities for wealth and equity.

Their legal team helps these businesses meet their legal needs on a pro bono basis so they can grow their enterprises and move to the next level.

They can assist with:

• Business formation
• Contracts
• Employment advice
• Intellectual property
• Minority business certifications

Applications are reviewed monthly and must be submitted between the 1st and 15th days of the month.

Learn more here.

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City of Dallas Environmental Youth Advisory Council

The city of Dallas announced the Dallas Environmental Youth Advisory Council, an initiative seeking to empower and mobilize youth to take proactive steps towards environmental sustainability within the governmental sector. The Environmental Youth Advisory Council is intended to tackle such issues as urbanization, congested roadways, loss of green spaces, strained infrastructure, and heat islands through partnerships with city departments, the Dallas Environmental Commission, environmental agencies, and other organizations via education and hands-on work in various communities.

Teens in Dallas can apply here.

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City of Fort Worth Boards and Commissions

The City of Fort Worth is seeking residents to serve on several boards and commissions. The boards with vacancies are the Aviation Advisory Board (Districts 2 and 10) and the Board of Adjustment-Commercial (District 6). The commissions with vacancies are the Building Standards Commission (District 2), the Historical and Cultural Landmarks Commission (District 10), the Pedestrian and Bicycle Advisory Commission (District 4), the Urban Design Commission (District 10), and the Zoning Commission (District 1). You must be a resident with an address in the district with the vacancy to apply. Find your district number by searching your street address here. 

Learn more and apply here.

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The DEC Network’s Mentorship Program

The DEC Network aims to provide qualified and experienced mentors to entrepreneurs. Mentors provide advice, counsel and experience that can help entrepreneurs avoid the hurdles that stand in their path, while also being able to catapult their businesses forward. DEC Network mentors are volunteering their time to invest in small businesses because they understand the power of mentorship to make a difference. Mentors should be business leaders who have been in business for more than one year, have a legal entity, or are preparing to become a legal entity. Programs offered include 3 month, six month and 1 year mentorship options. Based on the prospective mentor’s application, DEC matches them with a mentee in the appropriate industry.

If you’re a startup founder looking for a mentor, there’s an application for you, too.

Learn more and apply here.

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IBM’s Call for Code Global Challenge

How can AI improve sustainability? Each quarter, IBM hosts a competition for teams of developers and problem solvers to build tech solutions that leverage IBM AI technologies to address specific global sustainability problems in clear and unique ways. By participating in the Global Challenge, in addition to the chance to win prizes and implementation support, participants gain skills in emerging tech like AI and machine learning and contribute to projects that have potential to help our planet. The quarterly challenge includes awards of up to $10,000, but the year-end awards will give out grand prizes of $50,000.

Areas of interest include carbon emissions, clean energy, supply chain transparency, water scarcity and quality, reducing waste, biodiversity, and reducing global food insecurity.

Learn more and register for the challenge here.

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Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Cohort

Owners of small businesses can receive 12 weeks of training for business growth, network with other business advisors and leaders, and find sources of capital in this free program.

Learn more about the program here.

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Patagonia Corporate Grant Program

Patagonia’s corporate grant program provides nonprofit startups focused on environmental protection with grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. Patagonia’s has a commitment to support the environment and help foster organizations that aim to make a positive environmental impact.

For details, go here.

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HSC SBIR Program

This program, operated through the University of North Texas Health Science Center in Fort Worth, was created to help the owners of local forward-thinking small businesses apply for federal funds through the Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs, collectively known as America’s Seed Fund. In December, HSC received a $2 million grant from Tarrant County to fund the program. To be eligible, companies must be in Tarrant County, have no more than 500 employees, be U.S. owned and operated, feature innovations and R&D with plans to commercialize. A new cohort begins each month through November 2024.

Learn more here.

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Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits Incubator Academy

Southern Glazer’s is seeking diverse- and women-owned brands in wine, spirits, CBC, and non-alcoholic beverages to participate in its new Incubator Academy, a virtual platform providing e-learning modules on critical topics such as creating a sales pitch and the fundamentals of on and off premise math. The Incubator Academy is the latest program to support the commercial success of diverse- and women-owned brands.

Go here to learn more.

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The DEC Network and Bank 7 Small Business Grant Program

Got a small business in Southern Dallas County? You may be eligible for The DEC Network and Bank 7’s Small Business Grant Program. Grants are intended for small businesses (under $1 MM) in Southern Dallas County, established before 2019, and have three or more employees. Grants of $2,500 to $5,000 will be awarded.

Go here for the application or email [email protected] for more information.

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StartupOS Platform 

StartupOS just launched its platform for early-stage startups that provides free access to the business tools, guidance, mentors, and investors that founders need to accelerate the growth of their company and raise capital. The platform, which empowers founders through a series of learn-by-doing exercises, is perfect for validating ideas, building an MVP (minimally viable product), or achieving product market fit, all to increase the probability of a startup’s long-term success.

Go here to learn more.

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Historic Tax Credit Program

The renovation of a historic building that will be used for a business or other income-producing purpose can recieve a federal tax credit up to 20% of the qualifying expenses of the rehabilitation. To qualify, a “substantial” amount must be spent rehabilitating the historic building, which needs to be certified as a historic structure by the National Park Service. The tax incentives program is administered by the National Park Service (NPS) and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in partnership with the State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs). SHPOs serve as the first point of contact for property owners.

Go here to learn more.

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U.S. DOT’s SBIR Program

The U.S. Department of Transportation offers over $10 million annually in contracts to U.S. small businesses to research and develop innovative solutions to transportation challenges. Participating small businesses have developed innovative technologies with help from SBIR, also called America’s Seed Fund.

Go here to learn more.

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Dallas Small Business Diversity Fund

BCL of Texas is launching the Dallas Small Business Diversity Fund with a $1 million investment from Comerica Bank. The fund targets Dallas County women- and minority-owned businesses that have been operating for at least two years. The fund will offer loans ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. To qualify, the business should have 2 to 50 employees and a business net worth of $60,000 or more.

To learn more, go here.

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WomenNets Grants

This women’s entrepreneurial network offers several different $10,000 grants each month, including a general grant for women-owned businesses, a startup grant, and various different business category-specific grants. Winners of any of those are also eligible to win one of the three $25,000 annual Amber Grants given at the end of the year. Grants for the year total $435,000, and one application allows you to be considered for any grants for which you qualify.

Learn more here.

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CPRIT Funds for cancer-fighting research, programs and startups

CPRIT—an investor in startups and early-stage companies—has unveiled four new requests for applications for product development research grants for the 2023 fiscal year. CPRIT, which stands for Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas has funded more than $3 billion for cancer-fighting research, therapeutics, devices, and tools since 2010. This current round of funding is available to Texas-based companies for research in several categories, including therapeutics, diagnostics, devices, and technologies.

Go here to learn more.

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NPower Tech Fundamentals: Free Virtual Training

This virtual program, with cohorts in fall and spring, aims to help young adults, 18 to 26, and military veterans and their spouses in the Dallas area, along with several other cities, launch careers in IT. This free 16-week training will offer opportunities for paid internships or project-based learning experiences while earning industry-recognized certifications. Participants will learn the basics of programming and IT-related skills and receive mentoring from senior IT professionals, employment readiness workshops, job placement assistance, and more.

Go here to learn more.

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a16z START program

If you have an idea for a new technology company, the a16z START program from andreesen.horowitz offers a seed fund with partner investors helping entrepreneurs in their journeys. They help those who just have ideas and haven’t yet started to those who are scaling a new product. The a16z START program invests up to $1 million for a percentage of ownership in your company. Founders receive support, access to a network of debt financiers and help from a community of go-to-market pros.

For more information, go here.

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Start.Pivot.Grow Microgrants

Business education and support organization Start.Pivot.Grow. is offering quarterly $2,500 microgrants, which awardees can use to cover everything from utilities and rent to software and marketing. To be eligible, you must have been in business for at least two years, make $50,000 or more in annual revenue, and have one to two employees (including the business owner). Applications are rolling and a new grant is offered each quarter.

Learn more here.

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Ecosystem Support Program (ESP)

The Ethereum Foundation offers grants and other support for open-source projects that strengthen Ethereum’s foundations, with a particular focus on builder tools, infrastructure, research, and public goods. The grants are designed to enable software builders to expand the range of tools available to those building on Ehereum, gaining a deeper understanding of cryptographic basics, and growing the builder ecosystem through education and community development.

To learn more, go here.

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UNICEF Innovation Fund

The UNICEF Innovation Fund invests in early stage, open-source, emerging technology solutions, providing equity-free grants to qualified applicants. The program seeks those offering scalable digital public goods, stronger communities of problem solvers, and growing solutions that bring results for children and the world.

Go here to learn more.

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Cowtown Angels

The Cowtown Angels network is accepting applications for funding consideration with a monthly deadline of the fourth Monday most months. Based in Fort Worth, Cowtown Angels is an angel network that connects entrepreneurs seeking early-stage funding with local investors in an environment that accelerates growth and rewards strategic risk-taking. Cowtown Angels is a program of TechFW, a non-profit organization created to encourage the development of the local business community by helping regional entrepreneurs commercialize innovative technology.

Go here for more information.

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NASE Growth Grant

NASE (National Association for the Self-Employed) offers business development grants for up to $4,000. To apply, you must be a NASE member. NASE’s Growth Grant program is intended for businesses planning to take the next step in their venture.  It provides available capital for small businesses and sole proprietors to be able to hire and train additional employees, market their business in new and existing ways or invest in new equipment or software. 

For more information, go here.

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GCRE Impact Fund

Gardner Capital, a private equity firm specializing in multi-family housing and solar energy development and investment, is offering a GCRE Impact Fund to provide up to $25,000 in funding for qualifying proposals to make solar more efficient for tenants in multifamily housing.

For more information, go here.

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Toyota Ventures Innovation Fund

Toyota Ventures, Toyota’s Manufacturing Project Innovation Center (MPIC), and Toyota Research Institute are teaming up to fund early-stage startups developing solutions to modernize manufacturing and advance sustainable production. Toyota Ventures is investing between $500,000 and $2 million from its Frontier Fund or Climate Fund and offering a chance to collaborate with Toyota on a proof-of-concept project. Software and hardware solutions are welcome across a number of categories, including 3D simulation, AI, robotics software, improvements to energy efficiency, cybersecurity, and more.

To be eligible, the company should have less than $10 million USD in funding, have a working prototype, and a business model that solves a market need and delivers value to customers. For more information, go here.

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Last Mile Education Fund

Applications are currently open for the Last Mile Education Fund, supported by a $100,000 grant from Lyda Hill Philanthropies, which is working to increase access to biotech careers for low-income North Texas students. Biotech talent is in high demand in the region across startup, corporate, and medical systems, and offers fulfilling and high-paying careers with benefits. The North Texas Biotech Workforce Fund supports students aiming for biotech and related STEM degrees and certificates in 26 designated counties in North Texas. Qualified students will be eligible for rapid response emergency mini-grants to support their educational progress and help overcome unexpected financial obstacles. 

Go here for more information.

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CDFI Friendly Fort Worth

The City of Fort Worth’s Department of Economic Development and the Department of Diversity and Inclusion are working through 2022 with CDFI Friendly America, a national company that helps connect underserved communities with CDFI (Community Development Financial Institutions) loans. CDFIs offer flexible, affordable, and patient financing to small business owners, affordable housing developers, nonprofits, consumers, and commercial real estate in underserved communities. CDFI Friendly Fort Worth will match residents, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits to CDFIs to help address funding gaps. The City of Fort Worth committed $3 million to the program, and officials hope to draw $250 million in financing over the next five years. To participate, the residence or business to be financed must be in Fort Worth.

For more information, go here.

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Texas Skills Development Fund

Texas private businesses, business consortiums, and trade unions are eligible to apply for a grant through the Texas Skills Development Fund to assist with workforce needs by partnering with a public community or technical college, or with an organization that partners with one of those institutions. Grants for a single business may be limited to $500,000.

To be considered, an employer must:

• • • Partner with an eligible grant applicant, which is a public community or technical college, the Texas Engineering Extension Service, or a private, nonprofit community-based organization in partnership with one of those institutions
    • Be actively involved in the planning and design of the customized training project
    • Pay wages to the employees who complete the training program that are equal to or greater than the prevailing wage for the occupation in the local labor market
    • Disclose any other state or federal grant funds awarded for the proposed training project
    • Sign an agreement with the grant applicant outlining each entity’s roles and responsibilities in the training project, including reporting requirements related to trainee participation
    • Provide equal employment opportunity documentation as well as information on the occupations for training, employment benefits, wages and social security numbers for trainees
    • Use WorkInTexas.com to post openings for new workers trained under the project

For more information, go here.

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The Accelerator Powered by Nestlé R&D

The Nestlé R+D Accelerator program aims at empowering food and beverage entrepreneurs to bring their products from idea to shop shelf in just six months. Successful applicants could receive assistance with design, packaging, innovation, regulatory and legal issues, plus get access to a prototype kitchen with resident chefs. The goal is to develop and test products in six months in real market conditions and includes a dedicated budget to help cover operational expenses. Entrepreneurs can apply to multiple Accelerators around the world. There are three Nestlé R&D Accelerators in the United States: two in Ohio and one at the U.S. headquarters for Nestlé in Arlington, Va.

Go here for more information.