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Welcome to Richmond, Texas.
Big things are coming, and you are a vital part
to making that future into reality.
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Selma Nellie Piña
Economic Development Coordinator
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Greetings to our Richmond Businesses and Residents,
As of, January 31, 2025, Jerry W. Jones Jr. is no longer serving as the Economic Development Director for the City of Richmond, TX.
Department Update: Economic Development Director Search and Continued Support
The Development Corporation of Richmond is a dedicated resource that facilitates the development and business expansion in Richmond, Texas.
As the official city advocate for the business, real estate, and development communities, our department assists with due diligence reports, connecting private sector enterprise with city goals. Our full-service department is equipped with real-time city information, real estate data, and market intelligence provided at no cost.
As your Economic Development Team, we want to provide you with an important update regarding our department and reaffirm our commitment to serving your needs.
We are currently in the process of searching for a new Director of Economic Development. This is a crucial position that will play a vital role in shaping the future of our community's economic landscape. We are committed to a thorough and diligent search to find the most qualified and dedicated individual to lead our department.
During this transition period, we want to assure you that our department remains fully operational and dedicated to supporting our residents and local businesses. We understand that your business needs don't pause, and neither does our commitment to providing you with the resources and assistance you require.
We are here to assist you with:
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Business Expansion and Retention: We can provide guidance and resources to help your business grow and thrive.
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New Business Development: If you are considering starting a business, we can offer support with planning, permitting, and connecting you with relevant resources.
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Workforce Development: We can connect you with programs and initiatives designed to enhance your workforce skills and meet your hiring needs.
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Site Selection and Development: We can assist businesses in finding suitable locations within our community.
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Navigating Local Regulations and Permitting: We can help streamline the process and provide clarity on local requirements.
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General Business Inquiries: No matter your question or concern, we are here to listen and provide assistance.
We understand that a strong and vibrant local economy benefits everyone. We encourage you to reach out to our department with any questions, concerns, or business needs you may have. We are committed to maintaining open communication and providing seamless support during this time.
We at Develop Richmond TX want to assure you that all inquiries concerning projects and potential opportunities for Economic Development in Richmond will continue to receive the same level of care. Developers and Site Selection consultants can reach out to Terri Vela, City Manager at tvela@richmondtx.gov.
For those seeking small business services or with general questions about small business assistance, please contact Nellie Piña at npina@richmondtx.gov or Book a Meeting 📅
We appreciate your continued support and understanding as we navigate this transition. We are confident that we will find an exceptional leader for our department, and we remain dedicated to fostering a thriving and prosperous community.
Sincerely,
Develop Richmond TX Team
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Get to know our DCR Board of Directors | |
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(From left to right) William Morefield III, Tim Jeffcoat, Cody Fredericks, Kit Jones (President), Barry Beard(Treasurer), Rebecca Haas, (Vice-President), and Nancie Rain(Secretary)
More Information
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Click below to review our DCR 2024 Annual Report | |
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We Want to Hear from YOU, Richmond!
Richmond, TX is developing a community brand, and your input is key to shaping it! If you live, work, or play in the City of Richmond or it's ETJ, we want to hear from you, though we do not discourage any input. Take our quick survey to help us tell the story of who we are, what we value, and where we're headed. Your voice will help guide the future of our community and grow local pride.
Take the survey now: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WeAreRichmond-survey?
It only takes 15 minutes!
Let's build a brand that reflects the heart of Richmond—together!
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Richmond is the perfect place for businesses to thrive!
With a strong workforce, growing infrastructure, and a supportive community, it's no surprise that companies are choosing Richmond as their home. Recent studies rank Houston MSA as a top hub for new businesses, and Texas continues to be one of the best states for entrepreneurs. Learn how DEVELOP Richmond can help your business start, grow, and expand!
www.developrichmondtx.com
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Spring is right around the corner—time to get outside! Richmond’s parks offer the perfect place to shake off winter and enjoy fresh air, scenic trails, and outdoor fun.
Step outside and experience Richmond’s green spaces! Whether you're walking, picnicking, or just unwinding, there’s a spot for you.
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Have you seen Richmond Tx Farmers Market Facebook page? Check out the call for vendors and please share this-
Are you looking to share your small business with your community? Now is your time!
DO YOU GROW fruits & veggies?
DO YOU RAISE chickens, livestock, eggs?
DO YOU BAKE cakes, cookies, breads, sweets?
DO YOU CRAFT lotions, soaps, sewing, knitting products?
DO YOU MAKE juice, tea, honey, coffee?
DO YOU COOK tacos, hotdogs, salads, sandwiches, etc.?
Apply to be a vendor at the City of Richmond Farmers Market, every first Friday of the month from 3-7 pm at 402 Morton St.
Visit Richmond TX Farmers Market website to apply- https://www.richmondtxfarmersmarket.com/how-to-be-a-vendor
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Business Spotlight: Lit Bookbar
Richmond is home to Lit Bookbar, a haven for book lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. From curated book selections to a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings, Lit Bookbar offers a unique experience. Let’s celebrate local businesses that bring charm and creativity to our city! It’s the perfect place to read, relax, and enjoy. Visit them in historic downtown Richmond or check out their events.
Location: 611 Jackson St. Suite B, Richmond, TX 77469
Contact: jillian@litbookbar.net
Website: litbookbar.com
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Hot Spot Highlight: Taqueria Tepatitlán
If you’re craving authentic Mexican flavors, look no further than Taqueria Tepatitlán, a hidden gem in Richmond. Known for their sizzling fajitas and flavorful tacos, this family-owned spot is a must-visit. Let’s support our local businesses that bring culture and delicious cuisine to our community.
Location: 741 E Hwy 90 Alt, Richmond, TX 77406
Contact: (281) 762-1895 or TaqueriaTepatitlan17@gmail.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/TepaRichmond
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☕ Crazy Coffee: Brewing Success in Richmond! ☕
Meet Chef Adams, the owner of Crazy Coffee Café, a beloved local spot in Richmond, TX. With years of experience as an executive chef at top institutions, he chose Richmond to bring his dream to life—and he hasn’t looked back since!
✨ “Richmond is a city that’s growing every day. The people are great, the environment is welcoming, and it’s a fantastic place to live and start a business. I love it here!”
– Chef Adams
If you’re looking for the perfect place to grab breakfast or lunch and support a local business, visit Crazy Coffee Café today!
📍 Crazy Coffee Café
📍 1803 Richmond Pkwy #100, Richmond, TX 77469
📞 (832) 595-8000
Thinking about starting a business? Richmond is the place to be! With a thriving community and endless opportunities, now is the time to make your mark.
📍 Tag a friend who needs to try Crazy Coffee!
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Born in the Bend is THE podcast for Fort Bend locals, highlighting local gems, entrepreneurs and
awesome stories originating in Fort Bend County, TX.
"That is the best, most well-produced podcast I have ever heard an economic development organization do. We were absolutely blown away when we were able to listen to some of the stories there, and talked to the folks who were putting it together...that's the kind of tool that frankly people all over the Houston region should be listening to that podcast, it's that good!"
~ Jeff Marcell, Senior Partner - TIP Strategies
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We applaud Fort Bend County Libraries, including Richmond's George Memorial Library, for being honored with the 2024 Achievement of Library Excellence Award!
Out of 542 public libraries in Texas, only 102 received this recognition. The award reflects the library system's commitment to innovative programs, community collaboration, and outstanding services. We are a better community to have a FBCL in Richmond as a place of learning, connection and excellence! Congratulations to the staff of George Memorial Library and all Fort Bend County Libraries for your dedication to excellence!
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The City of Houston Government Channel
HTV Houston Television
Nexo Latino is the preeminent B2B platform to reach the burgeoning Hispanic small business community in Spanish (en Español).
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Whether you're a small business owner, a workplace leader, or a dedicated team member, this event is for you. We believe in the crucial role of physical and mental wellness in the workplace, and we invite you to join us in promoting this important cause. | |
Fort Bend County Business Directory | |
Enter "Richmond" in the search boxes for Richmond, TX Businesses | |
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Starting a business but don't know where to begin?
Kimberly Thomas, director of the Fort Bend SBDC, shares how their expert advisors help small businesses grow from startups to thriving operations. And the best part? Their services are FREE!
1116 Myrtle @ Morton St., Richmond, TX 77469
www.sbdc.uh.edu
(713) 743-5550
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Doing Business In Richmond TX!
The Fort Bend County Small Business Development Center (Fort Bend SBDC) is housed right here in Richmond. Learn what resources SBDC offers, from virtual training to one-on-one business assistance and mentoring. The SBDC team is available to support Richmond small businesses and those looking to start a small business. Learn more!
Ready to start? Learn more and get in touch at
http://www.developrichmondtx.com/busi.../starting-a-business
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March Webinars
{ Click the Webinar Title to Register }
Mission & Vision in the AI Age - March 4th | 10 AM
This webinar will equip you with the knowledge and tools to craft powerful mission and vision statements that guide your AI-powered startup serving underserved communities. You'll understand the critical role these statements play in attracting talent, securing funding, and ensuring ethical AI development. You'll learn how to adapt your mission and vision to the unique challenges and opportunities presented by the AI age, including how these statements inform your marketing strategy and the selection of appropriate resources to effectively reach and serve your target community.
CEO Mindset: Transitioning from Operator to Leader - March 5th | 10:00 AM
Description: Many entrepreneurs struggle with the shift from managing daily tasks to leading their business strategically. This session will provide actionable insights into embracing the CEO role, setting a vision for growth, and empowering teams to thrive.
THE BOSS: THE BUSINESS OWNER’S STORY - March 5th | 2 PM
Your purpose and what you value – your story – defines how you build and run your business. It sets the stage for your business growth and success, and the best return on your effort and investment. What is your story? What is your purpose beyond making profits? What do you value? Explore how to create a brand based on your story so that customers love your product and spread their love. What you get A draft of your story, your purpose and what you value, and what ONLY you offer.
Planning for the Business Owner - March 11th | 10:00 AM
The majority of business owners concentrate on what their business is, and don’t realize the importance of having buy-sell agreements in partnerships, key person insurance and life insurance. They invest a lot of time and money into their business but don’t always know how to protect that business should something happen to them. Whether a business partner or owner suddenly dies or becomes sick, hurt or injured, we show them practical ways to protect their business.
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SBA Certifications Information Session
Tuesday, March 4 | 1:00pm-2:00pm CT
VIRTUAL | REGISTER
Houston Business Matchmaker 2025
Hosted by SBDC, SBA, APEX Accelerator, and HBJ
Friday, March 7 | 8:45am-3:30pm CT
VIRTUAL EVENT | MORE DETAILS
Understanding SBA Loans
Tuesday, March 11 | 10:00am-11:00am CT
VIRTUAL EVENT | REGISTER
ONLINE 1-Day Boots to Business Reboot
Wednesday, March 26 | 8:00am-5:00pm CT
VIRTUAL EVENT | REGISTER
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📈 Take your business to the next level with
SBA's free online learning platform!
Small businesses play a crucial role in the U.S. economy. They drive innovation, create jobs and provide stability to the economy. These businesses represent all types of industries and are catalysts for regional development across the country. The majority are small, with great potential for growth in both revenues and job creation. That’s why we created MySBA Learning and packed it with in-depth information to help you grow your business.
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Permits & Licenses
(City, County, State, Federal)
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Automate Your City Permit Process with MyGovernmentOnline!
Say goodbye to piles of paperwork! Richmond’s Building and Permits Department now offers the MyGovernmentOnline (MGO) portal, making it easier than ever to go digital. With just a few clicks, you can:
- Automate Your Applications — Apply for permits and licenses online, anytime!
- Simplify Payments — Securely complete transactions without ever picking up a pen.
- Instant Access to Documents — Download approvals and documents in real-time.
- Streamlined Scheduling — Book inspections effortlessly through the portal.
- Stay Updated — Track project status from start to finish, all in one place.
Ditch the paperwork and switch to our automated system! Head over to richmondtx.gov
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Are you ready to submit your business proposal & plans?
The purpose of a pre-application conference is to create a “one-stop shop” meeting with all department representatives who form the Development Review Committee (DRC). These meetings help introduce the developers to the city’s development regulations and permitting processes. The meeting is generally attended by representatives of the following City departments: Planning Department, City Engineer, Public Works Department, Building Department, Fire Marshal, and the Fire Department. These meetings are strongly encouraged for new development projects, as they allow the developer/owner to discuss their proposal with the DRC.
One-hour long pre-application conferences may be scheduled every Tuesday morning, at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m., depending on availability.
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The more our communities learn together, the more we grow together. What matters to Houston matters to America. And the more we understand our region, the more we thrive — changing our world and our communities for the better.
Understanding Houston provides community leaders, and residents with access to independent information they can use to effect positive change in their communities.
Explore over 200 visual indicators across nine key topics affecting the quality of life in Houston’s three most populous counties (including Fort Bend) — tracked over time for clarity and context.
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Bid Opportunities in Greater Richmond TX | |
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FAQ Alert! Are you looking to register as a contractor in Richmond, TX? We've got the info you need. To get started, visit the city’s website Building Department | City of Richmond (richmondtx.gov) and follow the instructions for the new customer portal to set up a customer account. You will then fill out the online application and attach any relevant licenses or pertinent information.
If you have any questions, we’re here to help make the process easy. Reach out today!
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Learn About Bid Opportunities & Resources to Assist Contractors in Procurement | |
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🎓 Educational Opportunity Highlight
We recognize the incredible work done by Texas State Technical College developing the next generation of lineman in Fort Bend County TX. Growing as quickly as our region is, more lineman are needed to support the necessary infrastructure, and TSTC’s curriculum is work-ready and industry driven. Learn more about the Lineman program, the TSTC money back guarantee, and how the community remains focused on widening and deepening the workforce pool in Richmond, TX and across the county.
Discover the incredible programs at Texas State Technical College, a cornerstone of workforce development right here in Richmond! Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, explore a new career path, or step into high-demand trades, TSTC is preparing the workforce of tomorrow with cutting-edge training and real-world experience.
🔧 From advanced technology to healthcare, TSTC offers pathways to success in high-demand fields!
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Wharton County Junior College in Richmond
offers programs in healthcare, business, and more. Learn about classes and certifications at https://wcjc.edu
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Richmond Tourism Quick Links | | | | |