The Cibolo Economic Development Corporation (CEDC) has awarded more than $200,000 in business development grants during fiscal year 2026, the first year of its EDGE Grant Program, and is now consolidating its grant offerings into a single streamlined program for fiscal year 2027. The move signals a maturing economic development strategy for the city, aiming to simplify access to funding while broadening the range of eligible projects.
The updated EDGE Grant Program for FY2027 features two tiers. The Standard EDGE Grant offers a 50/50 matching reimbursement of up to $15,000 for eligible commercial property improvements such as façade enhancements, signage, exterior construction, lighting, and parking improvements. The Special Circumstances EDGE Grant provides up to $50,000 for projects involving an investment of $1 million or more, designed to attract larger business investments that align with Cibolo's economic development goals. By combining these under one program, the Cibolo Economic Development Corporation aims to reduce complexity for businesses seeking assistance and offer greater flexibility for projects of different sizes.
"The EDGE Grant Program helps Cibolo businesses invest, grow, and strengthen our local economy," said Clancy Hardin, Assistant Director of Economic Development for the City of Cibolo. "The program's first-year results demonstrate strong momentum, and the updated structure will allow us to support projects of all sizes." The first year of the program, launched in July 2025, saw awards to businesses across retail, restaurants, and personal services, including River City ACE, CRUST Pizza, Max & Louie's New York Diner, and other local establishments. These recipients illustrate the program's reach across sectors and its role in encouraging private investment.
Business owners have praised the program's impact. Derek Campbell, owner of Crust Pizza in Cibolo, said the grant signaled the city's commitment to small businesses: "The grant showed us we picked the right city and how important we as small business owners are to the City of Cibolo!" Shannon Eklund of River City Ace Hardware described the grant as meaningful to her family, noting it helped them create a welcoming community space. Drew Glick, owner of Max & Louie's NY Diner, said the funding helped install patio blinds and building signs, enhancing the dining experience and demonstrating the city's support for local businesses.
The more than $200,000 awarded in FY2026 reflects CEDC's ongoing efforts to stimulate private investment and support business retention and expansion. The new two-tier structure for FY2027 is expected to expand the range of qualifying projects while maintaining a focus on responsible economic development. Businesses interested in learning more about eligibility and the application process can visit www.cibolotx.gov/EDC or reach the CEDC via Email Contact.
