RISE Up Harlingen Awards $65,000 to Three Local Businesses

Three businesses received a combined $65,000 at the third annual RISE Up Harlingen Business Pitch Competition, supporting local entrepreneurs as they work to develop their businesses.

According to an announcement from COSTEP, the Council for South Texas Economic Progress, Silly Dillys received $30,000, Chemsol Services, Inc. received $20,000, and The Grove received $15,000. For the first time, every other entrepreneur who competed also received $1,000 to help advance their business. 

Backing Local Entrepreneurs

COSTEP sponsored the competition, with Rick Carrera representing the organization at the event. In its announcement, COSTEP recognized the entrepreneurs who presented their business ideas and emphasized its support for the talent contributing to South Texas’ economic future.

The organization also acknowledged the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Entrepreneurship and Commercialization Center, judges, and participating vendors.

By extending financial awards beyond the three winners, this year’s competition provided support to every competing entrepreneur.

Building on Harlingen’s Business Support Network

The competition takes place within a city that has worked to expand access to business guidance and educational resources.

In 2023, ProMexico Industry reported on a partnership between Harlingen Economic Development Corporation and UTRGV that established an office within the EDC’s complex to assist entrepreneurs starting or expanding businesses. The initiative included guidance on financial management, workforce recruitment, business development, and training, with support tailored to individual companies. 

Small-business support also featured in Harlingen’s successful application for the 2026 All-America City Award. ProTexas Industry reported that the city’s presentation highlighted collaboration in education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, with local business owners participating in the delegation.

RISE Up Harlingen adds direct financial backing to those broader efforts. For the winning businesses and other competitors, the awards provide resources to pursue their next steps while bringing greater visibility to the entrepreneurs building businesses in South Texas.Si