Bastrop Economic Development Corporation Newsletter
February 2026
| | | |
Start Smart. Start at City Hall.
Starting a business in Bastrop? Make City Hall your first stop. Our new one-stop approach connects entrepreneurs with permits, zoning guidance, local regulations, and resources—all in one place.
Visiting City Hall early helps businesses avoid surprises, save time, and start compliant from day one.
CLICK HERE
| | |
LongHorn Steakhouse is Opening!
The grand opening of LongHorn Steakhouse is February 16, 2026. They are located at 653 SH 71 in the new Burleson Crossing East retail center.
Click HERE to learn more!
| | | Events & Networking Opportunities | |
F.A.M.E. Days
Friday Art Market & Entertainment
F.A.M.E. is a free monthly experience celebrating art, culture, and connection, featuring a new theme each month. For February, we honor Black History Month with an evening dedicated to legacy, love, creativity, and community pride.
Click HERE to learn more!
| |
|
Empty Bowl Project - Supporting the Bastrop Food Pantry
Due to inclement weather, the Bastrop Empty Bowl Project was postponed to February 7th. 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.
|
|
|
Fat Tuesday in Bastrop!
While the original Mardi Gras Festival was canceled, you can still enjoy the spirit of Mardi Gras on February 17th (aka Fat Tuesday). Stroll Main Street, enjoy Mardi Gras-inspired specials from downtown restaurants and bars, shop unique vendors and pop-ups, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere that makes Bastrop special.
Click HERE for more information!
| |
|
Free SBA Webinar - Marketing 101
Refresh your knowledge to effectively market your goods and/or services! This live webinar on February 4th will cover marketing essentials such as branding, online SEO, and competitive analysis.
Click HERE to learn more!
| |
| |
Getting Out of Debt and Building Credit
Credit can make or break your financial success. Join this webinar on February 12th and learn a simple, step-by-step plan to raise your credit score, avoid common credit mistakes, take control of your debt, and receive a free debt elimination strategy. You can achieve debt freedom and build a strong credit score, which is particularly important if you’re planning to start a business.
Click HERE to learn more!
| |
| |
SCORE Online Class February 12th - Creating a Quick Business Plan
You have a great business idea, but what is the next step? How do you turn your idea into a great product or service? In this webinar, you will learn how to write your "Value Proposition" and use the "Lean Canvas" to capture key ideas, concepts and strategies about your business. When you leave the webinar, you'll be able to draft your own one-page business plan. NOTE - There is a $10 registration fee.
Click HERE to learn more!
| |
| |
Taxes for GIG Economy Workers
The GIG Economy can be uncharted territory for most small businesses, freelancers and independent contractors. Attend this webinar presented by the IRS for full explanation on GIG workers and the tax ramifications on specific industries including how does a GIG worker know if they are an employee or self-employed, business expenses and record keeping, rules for home rentals, tax payment options plus a live Q & A. (Note: This no-cost webinar is live and is not recorded.)
Click HERE to learn more!
| |
| |
According to the National Retail Federation (NRF) annual survey, total U.S. consumer spending on Valentine's Day in 2025 reached a record high of $27.5 billion, an average of $188.81 per person!
| | | | | |
