Bastrop EDC celebrates Economic Development Week May 12-16

Bastrop Economic Development Corporation is proud to celebrate Economic Development Week, or EDW, from May 12 to 16. For EDW, communities across the U.S. highlight the crucial role of economic development in building thriving, sustainable regions. Established by the International Economic Development Council, EDW provides a national platform to honor the partnerships, long-term planning, and dedication fueling long-term prosperity.

In Bastrop, economic development touches every aspect of daily life. It shapes the jobs in Bastrop, the places we shop, the infrastructure we rely on, and the opportunities available to future generations. From guiding new businesses to championing long-time employers, Bastrop EDC plays a vital role in making Bastrop a great place to live, work, and invest. 

Why economic development matters

The term “economic development” is often associated with big projects featuring major employers, but the reality of economic development is much broader and much more invested in the daily life of a community. It includes everything from workforce training and small business support to infrastructure improvements and creating and managing incentives for new investments in the community. 

In Texas, a Type B economic development corporation like Bastrop EDC is a special entity authorized by voters to invest a portion of local sales tax revenue back into the city to support economic and community projects. These funds can support everything from downtown revitalization to park improvements to business attraction efforts. 

According to Texas statutes, Type B corporations may pay for land, buildings, equipment, facilities, targeted infrastructure, and improvements for sports and athletic facilities and various related expenses. Additional funding opportunities include public safety and recycling facilities; streets, roads, drainage, and associated improvements; demolition of buildings; and the maintenance and operating costs associated with these projects. Bastrop EDC works under these guiding principles, ensuring public dollars meet long-term goals, increase economic resilience, and improve quality of life. 

The role of Bastrop EDC in Economic Development

Economic development doesn’t happen by accident. It is the result of consistent planning, the coordination of stakeholders, and community-focused strategies. Bastrop EDC supports a wide range of initiatives to help our businesses and community succeed. These include: 

Business retention and expansion efforts

Bastrop EDC helps existing businesses grow by providing resources, addressing infrastructure needs, and offering strategic guidance. A major goal in 2025 is ongoing development of the Business and Industrial Park to attract new businesses to the community.

Small business support

Throughout this year, we have focused on enhancing communication and collaboration with a roundtable event and are identifying best practices to grow our small businesses. From technical assistance to help accessing capital, we offer the tools startups and growing enterprises need. 

Workforce Development

Collaboration with local education and training providers is essential for developing a talent pipeline capable of meeting current and future employer needs. 

Incentives and financial services

We connect businesses with all available financial resources and incentives. From competitive opportunities at the Business and Industrial Park to state grants and tax incentives, our experts are here to support businesses growing jobs and opportunities in Bastrop.

Economic Development Week: A celebration of community impact

EDW is a time to celebrate the people behind the progress, including local leaders, businesses, educators, and entrepreneurs. Their commitment is what drives the innovative and resilient economy we’re building together in Bastrop, Texas. 

To learn more about the programs offered and facilitated by the Bastrop Economic Development Corporation, visit our website or contact us today.