Donna, Texas Is Ready for New Investment: April Castañeda Takes Over as EDC Director

With a clear vision and well-defined goals, April Castañeda has been appointed as the new Executive Director of the Donna Economic Development Corporation (Donna EDC). She is already leading efforts in three strategic areas: social development, workforce enhancement, and economic growth for the city.

Bringing over three years of experience as Business Development Director at Weslaco EDC, Castañeda takes on this new role with determination, focusing on attracting investment and supporting the expansion of existing businesses in Donna.

“I saw the potential Donna has, along with the challenges that come with growth, both in the retail and industrial sectors,” Castañeda explained. “Although this is a new position for me, we’re already collaborating with partners like South Texas College and Workforce Solutions to engage the community.”

The new director has begun visiting local businesses to share the EDC’s initiatives and strengthen ties with small business owners, sending a clear message: Donna is supported by a team committed to its economic development.

Strategically located in the heart of the Rio Grande Valley, Donna offers two industrial parks and direct access to an international bridge currently limited to empty truck crossings. However, an expansion plan is already underway that will allow loaded commercial vehicles to cross by 2027, unlocking regional economic growth.

“We’re already promoting this opportunity to manufacturing companies and cold storage operators, because we understand their decision-making and analysis processes can take years,” she added.

As part of her vision, Castañeda emphasizes the importance of regional collaboration with neighboring cities to ensure growth that benefits the entire Rio Grande Valley.

She also acknowledged that one of the main challenges lies in shifting investor and developer perceptions, making it clear that Donna holds strong potential and offers unique advantages for industrial and commercial development.

“We want people to know that Donna is ready, open, and committed to growth. We’re a city with potential, prepared to support the businesses that choose to establish here,” she concluded.

Employers, investors, and developers interested in learning more about opportunities in Donna can contact acastaneda@cityofdonna.org.