Harlingen boosts industrial competitiveness with operational excellence program alongside TMAC

With the goal of strengthening established companies and driving sustainable growth across the industrial sector, the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (Harlingen EDC) has launched the Advance in Manufacturing Program: Operational Excellence Assistance for Economic Growth, in coordination with the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC).

The program is designed to support manufacturing companies and supply chain–related businesses through specialized advisory services focused on continuous improvement, financial analysis, process optimization, and workforce training needs—directly impacting productivity, competitiveness, and job creation.

Orlando Campos, CEO of Harlingen EDC, explained that the initiative was created as a strategic effort to consolidate and strengthen the more than 25 manufacturing companies currently operating in the city.

“We entered into an agreement with TMAC to provide scholarships to manufacturing companies so they can take advantage of the resources TMAC offers and strengthen their internal processes,” Campos said.

He added that TMAC works directly with participating companies to review production processes, financial records, and training structures, delivering concrete recommendations to improve operational performance and competitiveness.

Direct subsidy for participating companies

One of the most attractive aspects of the program is its funding structure. Harlingen EDC subsidizes 50% of the total cost, subject to approval by its board of directors and the city council. Initially, the program will support 10 companies, with the possibility of expanding funding if demand and results prove positive.

“If we see the program is successful and more companies want to participate, we can request additional funding to continue in the coming years,” Campos added.

A model designed specifically for Harlingen

David Ortiz, Director of the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC), explained that the program was designed specifically to address the needs of Harlingen’s industrial ecosystem, in collaboration with TMAC, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), and Harlingen EDC.

“Our goal is to create a model that goes beyond training and actually implements continuous improvement directly on the shop floor, so the impact and return on investment are fully tangible,” Ortiz noted.

The program is open not only to manufacturers, but also to distribution centers, engineering services firms, and software companies connected to manufacturing operations, with no restrictions on company size or number of employees.

Regarding costs, Ortiz explained that projects are subsidized 50% by Harlingen EDC and an additional 15% by TMAC, meaning participating companies cover only 35% of the total project cost.

Next steps

Companies interested in participating can contact TMAC or Harlingen EDC directly to schedule an initial diagnostic visit and define potential continuous improvement projects.

Through this initiative, Harlingen reinforces its commitment to industrial development, investment attraction, and job creation, positioning itself as a competitive manufacturing hub in South Texas.