Iberty Trevino from the BOSS team engaging with constituents at District One’s community meeting.

The Shoppes at Solana

Back to Business Resource Fair

Last week, the City of El Paso’s Business OneStop Shop (BOSS) hosted the Back to Business Resource Fair at The Shoppes at Solana. The event drew a mix of emerging and established entrepreneurs, community partners, and the Entrepreneur Support Organization (ESO) network. BOSS offered a welcoming environment for business owners at all stages to connect, learn, and grow their ventures. 

Scott Brown, General Manager at The Shoppes at Solana, gave opening remarks and highlighted that 80% of the businesses at the center are locally owned. Chris Canales, City Representative District 8, emphasized the beneficial ripple effect that shopping local has on our economy. Klarissa Mijares, Business Services Coordinator with the City’s Economic & International Development Department, presented the services of the Business OneStop Shop. Elizabeth Terrazas, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau, introduced the Buy El Paso program and encouraged attendees to download the Open Rewards App to support and track local spending. Felicia Patrick, Business Relations Coordinator from Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services, presented valuable resources available to employers hiring individuals with disabilities. Lastly, Hector Espino of Borderplex Community Capital, discussed Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) loans available for business equipment and other needs. 

Entrepreneur support organizations were on site offering guidance on topics such as:  

• Access to Capital and Funding 
• Business Development and Training 
• Comprehensive Support  
• Workforce Development & Skills Training

Thank you to our ESO Exhibitors:

Borderplex Capital Community (BCC)

Center for Corporate and Workforce Training (EPCC)

Contract Opportunity Center

Liftfund

Project Vida

Prairie View A&M University Extension - El Paso County

SBA (U.S. Small Business Administration)

SBDC (Small Business Development Center - EPCC)

Texas Workforce Solutions Vocational Rehabilitation Services

Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo Department of Economic Development - Native Pathways

Attendees had the opportunity to connect directly with CDFIs, state agencies, and ESOs while enjoying a warm atmosphere that included raffles and giveaways—special thanks to Destination El Paso for contributing waterpark tickets! 

Thank you to The Shoppes at Solana for generously providing the venue and to everyone who attended and supported the event. 

Strengthening Ties

El Paso Chamber hosted the NCOLCoE Class

of 2025-2026 International Program at Fort Bliss

Pictures by Erin Solis

Earlier this month, the El Paso Chamber proudly welcomed international military students attending the Non-Commissioned Officer Leadership Center of Excellence (NCOLCoE) 2025, Class 76 International Program at Fort Bliss. Representing the City of El Paso Economic Development Department, we were proud to be part of this inspiring experience. 

During their visit the Chamber led students through an engaging overview of civic and philanthropic initiatives which highlighted the dynamic blend of governance, business, and community life in the U.S. 

Programs like these foster cross-cultural connections and provide students with valuable insights into the diverse El Paso Community, helping them understand how El Paso has built a strong and thriving society. 

We were honored to showcase the BOSS and collaborate with partners including El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego; Alejandra Chavez, City Representative District 1; Congresswoman Veronica Escobar; the El Paso Council for International Visitors; Visit El Paso; El Paso Locomotive FC; and Chico, the El Paso Chihuahuas’ mascot. 

This collective community support reflects the genuine hospitality we offer visitors and reaffirms our commitment to nurturing international relationships by helping to advance economic growth throughout the Borderplex region. Together, we are shaping a more inclusive and prosperous future. 

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