Spark Lab

03/30/2026

We appreciate everyone who joined us for last week’s Chamber Mixer at the Spark Lab! Your participation continues to strengthen Del Rio’s business community and drive meaningful connections.

Now, let’s build on that momentum.

If you’re ready to take the next step, join us March 31 from 5:30–7:00 PM at the Spark Lab for Startup Roadmap: From Idea to Revenue, featuring Frank Mendoza.

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to grow, this session is designed to help you turn ideas into action.

03/27/2026

Big ideas start here! 💡

Join us March 31 for Startup Roadmap and take the next step from idea → revenue.

Hear from Frank Mendoza (Owner/Operator, McDonald’s) and gain real-world insights on entrepreneurship, storytelling, and building a successful business.

📍 SparkLab Incubator (101 W. Ogden St.)
🕠 5:30–7:00 PM

Open to entrepreneurs, startups, and anyone ready to get started 🚀

02/04/2026

The Spark Lab Small Business Workshop opened with a welcome from City of Del Rio Economic Development Director Orestes Hubbard, followed by an opportunity for attendees to share brief overviews of their businesses and connect with one another. Jorge Garza, Business Incubator Manager, provided an overview of Spark Lab’s mission, goals, and available resources for local entrepreneurs.

Kiley Justis, Regional Business Liaison with the Texas Workforce Commission, presented on workforce grants and employer support programs, followed by presentations from Kristel Sanchez, Director of Workforce Training & Development, and Marisa E. Hinojosa, Coordinator of Workforce Training & Development, both with Southwest Texas College, who shared additional training and funding opportunities available to small businesses.

The City of Del Rio and Spark Lab extend a thank you to all participating local businesses, representing a range of industries including retail, food and beverage, construction, personal services, transportation, and professional services, for taking the time to engage, ask questions, and invest in strengthening Del Rio’s local workforce.

01/26/2026

🚀 Calling all small business owners & employers in Del Rio!

Ready to spark growth in your business? Join us at the Spark Lab for a Small Business Workshop focused on Workforce Grants & Employer Resources. Designed for businesses of all sizes.

💼 Learn how to:
✨ Support and train your employees
✨ Offset staffing and workforce costs
✨ Access grants that help fund day-to-day training
✨ Strengthen and grow your business

📅 February 3, 2026
⏰ 5:30–7:00 PM
📍 Spark Lab | 101 W. Ogden St.

Presented by the Texas Workforce Commission. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and invest in your business’s future! 💡 To sign up, please visit: https://www.cityofdelrio.com/government/departments/economic-development/main-street-program/spark-lab-for-a-small-business-workshop-focused-on-workforce-grants-employer-resources

01/17/2025

01/17/2025

Thank you, Leadership Del Rio Class 14, for visiting the City of Del Rio! 🎉

Yesterday, the group stopped by the SparkLab business incubator, where they heard remarks on leadership from Mayor Al Arreola, Mayor Pro Tem James DeReus, Councilwoman Carmen Gutierrez, Councilman Jesús López, and the City Administrative Team. They shared their perspectives on the importance of community leadership and collaboration.

Later, Leadership Del Rio visited the Water Plant for an informative tour, gaining a behind-the-scenes look at the city’s infrastructure and operations. 💧

We appreciate your commitment to leadership and community development! 🙌

11/07/2024

The Spark Lab appreciates all who attended the Sul Ross University Health & Career Pathway Exhibit on October 30, 2024.

We were honored by a special appearance from Mayor Al Arreola, who inspired attendees to pursue educational paths and prepare for a successful future. We also wish to acknowledge the invaluable efforts of Cynthia Sifuentes, Student Services Director, along with Career Coordinators Delilah Abrego and Alejandra Valdez, and Retention Specialist Advisor Larissa Ocadiz, whose dedication greatly contributed to the event’s success.

Our gratitude extends to Vice President Dr. Jorge Garza for his unwavering support of SRSU, and to Dr. Minerva Gonzales, Inclusive Minds, and Solutions Middle Rio Grande for offering essential academic resources and career guidance.

10/16/2024

Thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday, October 15th for our informative session with John Atnipp, Neighborhood Services Director!

We appreciate your engagement and hope the insights on vendor permits help take your business to the next level.

Stay tuned for next month's informative session!

10/15/2024

Join us at the SparkLab *TODAY* Tuesday, October 15th at 6:00 PM for an informative session with John Atnipp, Neighborhood Services Director.

Learn about vendor permits, get expert advice, and prepare to take your business to the next level!

📍 SparkLab - 101 W Ogden St
📅 October 15th
🕕 6:00 PM

To RSVP contact Jorge Garza at [email protected] or call (830)774-8638

10/11/2024

Join us at the SparkLab on Tuesday, October 15th at 6:00 PM for an informative session with John Atnipp, Neighborhood Services Director.

Learn about vendor permits, get expert advice, and prepare to take your business to the next level!

📍 SparkLab - 101 W Ogden St
📅 October 15th
🕕 6:00 PM

To RSVP contact Jorge Garza at [email protected] or call (830)774-8638

10/07/2024

Join us at the SparkLab on Tuesday, October 15th at 6:00 PM for an informative session with John Atnipp, Neighborhood Services Director.

Learn about vendor permits, get expert advice, and prepare to take your business to the next level!

📍 SparkLab - 101 W Ogden St
📅 October 15th
🕕 6:00 PM

To RSVP contact Jorge Garza at [email protected] or call (830)774-8638