Travis County Launches TCTX Thrive 3.0 to Empower Small Businesses Effectively

Travis County Launches TCTX Thrive 3.0 for Small Businesses

On August 8, 2025, Travis County unveiled an innovative small business support initiative known as TCTX Thrive 3.0, aiming to offer essential resources such as training, coaching, and financial assistance to local entrepreneurs. This new program is a response to the economic hurdles posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on fortifying small business operations and fostering sustainable growth across the county, particularly for businesses located outside of Austin city limits.

Travis County Commissioner Margaret Gómez emphasized the initiative's commitment to empowering local entrepreneurs. She noted, "With TCTX Thrive 3.0, we are focused on providing fundamental business training, facilitating access to capital, and guiding ownership transitions for small businesses."

Beginning August 5, 2025, small business owners are invited to tap into the resources facilitated by Travis County through the TCTX Thrive 3.0 program. Eligible participants will have access to PeopleFund’s BIPOC Small Business Accelerator and Military Connected Small Business Accelerator. Both programs are designed inclusively, accepting individuals from all backgrounds, regardless of gender, race, or creed. Graduates of these accelerators will receive not only a small business loan but also a grant and three years of complimentary support following their graduation.

Gustavo Lasala, President and CEO of PeopleFund, expressed honor in collaborating with Travis County for this initiative. He explained that the pandemic has severely impacted numerous businesses, especially smaller ones that often grapple with credit challenges. TCTX Thrive 3.0 aims to enable these businesses to grow, create jobs, and bolster the economic health of Travis County.

The educational components of this program are supported by Roads Consulting Group, a firm known for assisting small businesses, particularly in underserved communities. Dr. Jose Perez, CEO of Roads Consulting Group, highlighted the importance of supporting small businesses in building resilient communities, stating, "We are proud to partner with PeopleFund and Travis County to provide customized guidance that helps entrepreneurs navigate their challenges and unleash their full potential."

Businesses interested in participating can apply online, and detailed information can be found on the TCTX 3.0 program website. Travis County has allocated $2.5 million to create this vital small business support initiative, extending previous investments made during the pandemic under federal COVID-19 assistance programs.

TCTX Thrive 3.0 not only aims to improve business fundamentals but also places importance on developing comprehensive business plans, preparing businesses for accessing financial resources, and strategizing for ownership transitions. The program seeks to dismantle barriers to participation while setting an ambitious goal: to assist 450 businesses through a core business foundational program, graduate 70 owners from the People's Fund Small Business Accelerators, and distribute approximately $1.75 million in loan capital alongside $350,000 in grants over the next two years.

For a lasting impact, PeopleFund, recognized as a nonprofit Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), has provided affordable loans and business advisory services to underserved entrepreneurs in Texas since 1994. The organization has successfully issued over $250 million in financial support to nearly 6,000 small businesses, creating or retaining over 25,000 jobs and yielding an impressive $1.2 billion in economic contribution to the Texas economy.

Roads Consulting Group, a minority-owned strategic consultancy established in 2017, has expanded its reach nationally and served over 1,200 small businesses by offering customized consulting services that encompass business strategy, financial guidance, and digital marketing support.

In synopsis, the TCTX Thrive 3.0 program represents a significant step forward for small businesses in Travis County, fostering resilience and providing key resources to navigate the complex post-pandemic landscape. The initiative is a potent reminder of the importance of community support in the growth and sustainability of local economies.