BEDC Business Brief

Bastrop Economic Development Corporation Newsletter

January 2026

Big Moves on Bastrop Roads & Projects

Bastrop County is building for the future! From Hwy. 290 and FM 812 improvements to street upgrades and bridge rehabilitation, check out key ongoing and upcoming transportation projects helping ease traffic, boost safety, and support our region’s growth.

Events & Networking Opportunities

Sprouts Hiring Event in Bastrop

Looking for a new opportunity? Sprouts Farmers Market will host a hiring event January 13–14 at the Bastrop Convention Center. Walk-ins welcome.

For available positions, visit https://jobs.sprouts.com/.

Bastrop County Job Fair

Looking for your next career opportunity? Join us at the Bastrop County Job Fair on Monday, January 20, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM at the Bastrop County Community Center. Connect with top local employers, explore resources, and take the next step in your career!

Empty Bowl Project - supporting the Bastrop Food Pantry

Support the Bastrop Food Pantry at the Empty Bowl Project on January 24, 2026, at the Bastrop Convention Center. Tickets include your choice of a handcrafted pottery soup bowl decorated by local school-age artists, plus unlimited samples of soups, stews, and chilis.

Tickets are available online, at the pantry office, or at the event.

BastropTX Mardi Gras Festival - presented by Discover Bastrop

Mardi Gras is coming to Bastrop January 30–31! Enjoy festive music, Louisiana flavors, and vibrant, family-friendly fun right here in Central Texas. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

For more information, visit BastropTX Mardi Gras.

Entrepreneur Corner

Get Tax-Ready with IRS Online Services

Get ahead of tax season with this free webinar on January 27, 2026, at 10:00 AM (CT). Learn how to use IRS online services, access no-cost tax assistance, understand enforcement and fairness initiatives, and connect directly with a Stakeholder Liaison—all followed by a live Q&A. Open to all small business owners and entrepreneurs.

Click HERE to learn more!

Small Business Success Starts Here

Ready to strengthen your business foundation? Join this free live webinar on January 17, 2026, at 10:00 AM (CST) to learn the essentials of building a sustainable business. This session covers business planning, marketing fundamentals, financial management, and long-term growth strategies. Perfect for new and existing entrepreneurs—and the first workshop in the Simple Steps for Starting Your Business series.

Click HERE to learn more!

Health Coverage That Works as Hard as You Do

Running your own business means handling everything—including health insurance. Check out this SCORE guide for practical tips and options to help you choose the right coverage and stay protected.

Click HERE to learn more!

Explore the Numbers Behind Texas Growth

The Texas Comptroller’s office has launched the new TexStats Statewide Economic Dashboard, an interactive tool that brings key economic data together in one place. Users can explore statewide trends in employment, gross state product, energy, housing, and inflation—helping businesses, policymakers, and communities make informed decisions and plan for long-term growth.

Click HERE to learn more!