El Paso Mission Trail small businesses to receive marketing, growth support

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Small businesses along the Mission Trail could benefit from new funding through federal funding.

The mission trail connects the Ysleta, Socorro and San Elizario Presidio missions through a nine-mile route. Small businesses along the route include museums, gift shops, restaurants and entertainment venues.

U.S. Representative Veronica Escobar, El Paso County Economic Development, El Paso-based advertising agency EFO media and small business consultant Revby launched a technical assistance and marketing program.

El Paso County said the Small Business Administration will fund the program, which will help small businesses improve their marketing practices and overall operations.

“Through this SBA investment, we are helping local businesses grow, strengthening our economy, and ensuring that the stories, traditions, and destinations that define our region continue to flourish for future generations,” said El Paso County Commissioner Iliana Holguín.

Revby and EFO Media will take charge of hands-on workshops focused on business development, financial readiness, strategy and photo and video technique, the county said.

"Every small business has a story worth telling, but many owners don't always have the time or resources to focus on marketing while running their business," said EFO Media CEO Ellen Ordaz.

The county said the SBA-funded program is part of a longer plan to strengthen the economic and tourism opportunities at the Mission Trail.

Once federal assistance is complete, the county said it will keep supporting businesses through its Comprehensive Economic Development Incentives Policy. The policy provides a framework for grants, tax rebates, workforce development incentives and other investment programs.