The Killeen-Temple-Fort Cavazos metropolitan area in Central Texas is anchored by Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), one of the largest military installations in the world. Located primarily in Bell County with portions extending into Coryell and Lampasas counties, the metro's economy is heavily influenced by the military presence alongside healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail sectors. Businesses in this metro may access unique defense contracting opportunities, veteran-focused programs, and traditional economic development incentives.
Federal Programs
Defense Contracting
Fort Cavazos generates substantial procurement opportunities for local businesses. Services from facility maintenance to technology support to food service are contracted to private businesses. The PTAC at the Heart of Texas Defense Alliance provides free counseling on government contracting. Guide to government contracting.
Veteran Business Programs
The metro's large veteran population creates strong eligibility for SDVOSB certification, Boots to Business programs, SBA veteran lending advantages, and the Veterans Business Outreach Center. Texas grants for veterans.
SBA Lending
Businesses may access SBA 7(a) loans, 504 loans, and Microloans. The Veteran Advantage program provides fee relief on SBA loans for veteran-owned businesses. CDFIs serve the area for businesses that need alternative lending.
USDA Programs
Areas surrounding the metro core may qualify for USDA Business & Industry loan guarantees and REAP grants. Coryell and Lampasas counties have strong rural program eligibility.
State Programs
Skills Development Fund
Training grants are available through Central Texas College and Temple College. Programs support manufacturing, healthcare, logistics, and construction workforce development. The military transition pipeline creates a steady supply of trainable workers.
Texas Enterprise Zone Program
Enterprise zones in the metro area offer state sales tax refunds for businesses creating jobs in designated areas.
Texas HUB Certification
Veteran-owned and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses may qualify for HUB certification, providing state procurement preferences. HUB certification for veteran-owned businesses.
Local Resources
Greater Killeen Chamber Economic Development
The Killeen Economic Development Corporation offers Chapter 380 agreements, property tax abatements, and business relocation assistance.
Temple Economic Development Corporation
Temple offers competitive incentive packages including infrastructure assistance, property tax phase-ins, and workforce development coordination. Temple has been particularly successful in attracting healthcare and manufacturing employers.
Workforce Solutions of Central Texas
The local workforce board provides employer services including subsidized training, on-the-job training reimbursements, and hiring incentives, with specialized programs for transitioning military service members.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Killeen-Temple-Fort Cavazos metro businesses, especially those with veteran ownership or defense contracting potential, may qualify for multiple overlapping programs. Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →