Bastrop Economic Development Corporation Newsletter
April 2026
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Bastrop Economic Development Corporation Team Welcomes Jill Strube, Ph.D.
The City of Bastrop and the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation (BEDC) are pleased to announce that Dr. Jill Strube has accepted the position of Business and Community Development Manager. Dr. Strube will be working together with Angela Ryan, CEcD, Operations Manager, Sylvia Carrillo-Trevino, Interim Executive Director of the BEDC and Bastrop City Manager, and the rest of the fantastic team at the City of Bastrop to assist in building a robust “economic gardening” program. Economic Gardening is an entrepreneurial- and community-focused approach to using economic development resources to support fundamental efforts in building small business and community capacity. She will also assist with any grant application and management activities that the City and BEDC undertake. “I am excited for this new challenge and the terrific work ahead of us. I am grateful and honored to be part of this team. I look forward to meeting the people in this community to talk with them about how we can help,” she said.
Dr. Strube is a welcome addition to the BEDC and the City of Bastrop. According to Ms. Carrillo, “We have seen the great works that Jill has done for Smithville and in the County for many years. Bastrop is fortunate to have such a consummate professional and hard worker on this amazing team.”
Dr. Strube brings over 17 years of experience in managing grants, community development and quality of life projects and programs, and economic development to Bastrop. She will focus on workforce development, entrepreneurial support, and community resource education. Together with the BEDC and City team, Dr. Strube will work to ensure that the entire City of Bastrop community increasingly prospers through these efforts.
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"Start Smart" Forum 3/18
The Bastrop Economic Development Corporation kicked off the first of a series of events for businesses, developers, real estate agents, surveyors, and other interested parties. Over 30 people participated in the Development Roundtable. The BEDC thanks the Development Services team for their presentation and expertise in showcasing proposed changes in ordinances related to building codes. Watch for more opportunities to engage with the City and BEDC staff to help your business avoid any pitfalls as you improve, purchase, or lease property in the City of Bastrop!
Click HERE to learn more!
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| Events & Networking Opportunities | |
Annual Easter Egg Hunt @ Lost Pines Toyota
Join the community for the Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Lost Pines Toyota on Saturday, April 4, starting at 11:00 a.m. Families are invited to enjoy a fun-filled morning, with the egg hunt kicking off promptly at 11:20 a.m.—so be sure to arrive early and don’t miss out on the excitement!
Click HERE to learn more!
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Springfest
Celebrate spring at Springfest 2026 on Saturday, April 18 at Fisherman’s Park. This free, family-friendly festival features live entertainment, games, food trucks, and interactive activities for all ages—while raising awareness for Child Abuse Prevention Month and connecting families with valuable community resources.
Click HERE for more information!
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| Bastrop Regional Business Summit | |
The Bastrop Regional Business Summit & Expo returns Tuesday, April 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Bastrop Convention Center. This premier event brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers for a day of networking, collaboration, and insights on workforce development, financial literacy, and regional growth—plus a business expo showcasing local organizations.
Click HERE for more information!
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| State of the County Breakfast | |
Gain valuable insights into Bastrop County’s growth and future at the State of the County Breakfast on Tuesday, April 28 from 8:00–10:30 a.m. This informative event brings together county leadership and community stakeholders for updates, discussion, and networking around key priorities shaping the region.
Click HERE for more information!
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2026 Women Entrepreneurs Conference | |
Empower your business journey at the Women Entrepreneurs Conference hosted by SCORE Austin. This one-day event brings together aspiring and established women business leaders for expert insights, AI-focused strategies, and meaningful networking opportunities designed to help you grow, scale, and succeed.
Click HERE for more information!
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Work in Bastrop Hiring Event | |
Connect with local employers at the Work in Bastrop Hiring Event on Thursday, April 30 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center. Job seekers can kick off the day with a free Job Fair Readiness Workshop before meeting with businesses actively hiring across a variety of industries.
Click HERE for more information!
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Veterans' Motorcycle Ride | |
The American Legion Riders Texas State Rally rolls into Bastrop Friday–Sunday, May 1–3 at American Legion Post No. 533. This annual gathering brings hundreds of motorcycle enthusiasts and veterans together for a weekend of riding, camaraderie, and community spirit
Click HERE for more information!
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Bookkeeping Essentials Every Small Business Owner Needs
Strengthen your financial foundation with the Bookkeeping Essentials Every Small Business Owner Needs webinar hosted by SCORE. This virtual session covers key bookkeeping practices, including tracking income and expenses, understanding financial statements, and simplifying tax preparation—giving entrepreneurs the tools to make smarter financial decisions and support long-term success
Click HERE to learn more!
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How to Actually Grow Your Business - Build a 12-Month Growth Plan
Learn how to take your business to the next level with the How to Actually Grow Your Business: Build a 12-Month Growth Plan webinar hosted by SCORE. This virtual session will guide entrepreneurs through creating a clear, actionable roadmap to align goals, prioritize strategies, and drive measurable growth over the next year.
Click HERE for more information!
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Prepare for Event Success: Plan for Peak Demand, Operations, and Execution
Prepare your business for high-demand opportunities with the Prepare for Event Success: Plan for Peak Demand, Operations, and Execution webinar hosted by SCORE. This virtual session will guide entrepreneurs through anticipating demand, planning staffing and inventory, and building simple systems to ensure smooth operations during busy events or peak seasons
Click HERE to learn more!
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April marks the start of peak festival and event season in many communities—bringing increased foot traffic, boosting local retail and restaurant sales, and showcasing the unique character that drives tourism and economic growth.
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