New initiative provides partially funded technical assistance to help small and mid-sized manufacturers improve efficiency, competitiveness, and long-term growth
HARLINGEN, Texas (January 16, 2026) — Manufacturers in Harlingen now have access to a new resource designed to strengthen operational performance and resilience. The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (HEDC), in partnership with the Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), has launched A.I.M. Harlingen (Advance in Manufacturing), a targeted program supporting small- and medium-sized manufacturing companies.
The A.I.M. Harlingen program delivers a comprehensive, partially funded excellence assistance model focused on helping manufacturers maximize existing resources, improve efficiency, and navigate today’s evolving economic and operational challenges. Through the collaboration, HEDC and TMAC aim to close a critical gap in access to affordable, high-quality consulting and technical expertise.
“Local manufacturers often lack the resources needed to obtain professional, hands-on technical assistance,” said David Ortiz, Training and Development representative with TMAC. “By lowering the cost barrier to high-quality support, the A.I.M. Harlingen program enables manufacturers to streamline operations, enhance competitiveness, and position themselves for future growth.”
Each participating company will receive up to 24 hours of customized technical assistance, delivered by TMAC’s experienced manufacturing specialists. Project costs are shared among HEDC, TMAC, and the participating manufacturer, with HEDC providing up to $4,200 in matching grant funds, covering approximately 50 percent of total project costs.
TMAC experts will work directly with company leadership and staff to identify opportunities for improvement and guide implementation across key focus areas, including strategic planning, manufacturing operations, quality systems, distribution, and supply chain optimization.
“The A.I.M. Harlingen program reflects our continued commitment to strengthening Harlingen’s manufacturing base, supporting job retention and expansion, and building a more resilient local economy,” said Orlando Campos, Chief Executive Officer of HEDC. “We look forward to the long-term impact this initiative will have on local manufacturers and the broader business community.”
Manufacturers interested in learning more about the A.I.M. Harlingen program are encouraged to contact the Harlingen Economic Development Corporation at (956) 216-5081 or jlozano@harlingenedc.com.
About Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center at UTRGV
TMAC at UTRGV is an affiliate of the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. TMAC provides hands-on technical assistance, training, and consulting services to help manufacturers improve productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. Learn more at www.tmac.org.
About Harlingen Economic Development Corporation
The Harlingen Economic Development Corporation (EDC) partners with businesses, investors, and community stakeholders to strengthen the economic vitality of Harlingen, Texas. Guided by a mission to enhance quality of life, the EDC delivers strategic, outcome-driven initiatives to attract and retain businesses, expand employment opportunities, and cultivate a dynamic, forward-thinking business climate.
For Media Inquiries:
Orlando Campos
Chief Executive Officer
Harlingen Economic Development Corporation
ocampos@harlingenedc.com
