The EDC convened in City Hall on Feb. 20 to welcome newly elected members, a contract approval with the Courtyard by Marriot on SPI, and the director’s report.
City Councilwoman Rees Langston, SPI-CVB Director Blake Henry, and Café Karma business owner Will Everett are new members.
2024 Officers for the board remained the same, with Thomas Bainter as President, Gayle Hood as Vice President, and Glenda George as Treasurer.
SPI's 2024 State of the Island Address and Sponsorship Opportunities
The board approved the contract with the Marriot Hotel for the State of the Island Address held annually by the Mayor of SPI (Mayor Patrick McNulty) to look back on the City’s accomplishments from 2023 and highlight how the City is preparing for the future.
Since the meeting, EDC Director Darla Lapeyre announced around 35 are available for sponsorships before the April 12 event. After last year's well-attended event, the EDC needed a bigger space. This year, the EDC will provide ten additional tables for individuals wanting to attend.
In collaboration with the City of South Padre Island, the South Padre Island Economic Development Corporation is announcing the 2024 State of the Island Address. Scheduled for Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at the Courtyard by Marriott, the event will feature Mayor Patrick McNulty reflecting on the city's 2023 accomplishments and outlining future plans.
The event presents an enticing sponsorship opportunity for businesses, providing a platform to showcase services to a broad audience while networking with influential government and community leaders. Sponsorship packages range from Silver at $1,000 to Platinum at $3,000, each offering various benefits, including prime seating, gift bags, company logos in the program, and social media recognition.
Attendees can also secure their spots by purchasing a table for ten at $900 or individual tickets for $100. The Silver sponsorship level includes a table for ten, a gift bag, and program logo placement. Gold sponsors, at the $2,000 level, enjoy additional perks such as VIP gift bags and social media recognition. At the $3,000 level, Platinum sponsors receive exclusive benefits, including podium recognition and a 30-45 second promotional video.
The luncheon, starting at 11:30 a.m., will be followed by the main program from noon to 1 p.m. This event offers an excellent opportunity for businesses to align with the community's growth and development. Interested parties can RSVP for the State of the Island Address or explore sponsorship options to engage actively in this significant community event.
SPI EDC Form
Sand Dollars for Success Grants Support Island Businesses
In its commitment to fostering local business growth, the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) proudly sponsors approximately three grants annually for island businesses, contingent upon the EDC's budget. This competitive initiative offers financial support to existing and new businesses, with winners in each category receiving grants.
For existing businesses, the EDC awards winners a grant of $25,000, while start-ups and companies with less than two years of operation are eligible for a $10,000 grant.
Many businesses have thrown their hats into the ring for the coveted grants this year. Among the new business applicants are Paint and Thrive, Island Pet Pantry, Los Pescadores, Meridian and Muse Fine Art Gallery, Lisa's Flower Shop, and Summer Sculpt. Existing businesses include SPI Surf Shuttle, Laguna Madre Yoga Meditation Center, Casa Mariposa Venue and Villas, Jenuine Cello, and Pineapple Ninjas.
The Sand Dollars for Success Grants winners will be unveiled on April 16, following oral presentations scheduled for April 15. This highly anticipated announcement marks a significant milestone for the selected businesses, showcasing the EDC's dedication to supporting and nurturing the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit on the island.
