The Texas Hill Country, stretching from the western edge of Austin through Fredericksburg, Kerrville, and Boerne, is a region known for its tourism, wine industry, and growing entrepreneurial community. Businesses in the Hill Country may be eligible for rural development programs, tourism incentives, and agricultural grants that are not available to metro-area businesses.
This guide covers the most relevant grants, loans, tax credits, and incentive programs available to Hill Country business owners.
Federal Programs
USDA Rural Programs
Most Hill Country communities qualify for USDA rural designations, opening access to the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), Business & Industry loan guarantees, and Value-Added Producer Grants for agricultural businesses adding processing or direct marketing.
SBA Lending
Hill Country businesses can access SBA 7(a) loans, 504 loans for real estate and equipment, and Microloans through regional CDFI lenders. The SBA San Antonio District Office serves most Hill Country communities.
State Programs
GO TEXAN Program
The Texas Department of Agriculture's GO TEXAN program provides marketing support for Texas-made products. Hill Country wineries, food producers, and artisan businesses may benefit from co-branding, trade show access, and retail placement assistance.
Skills Development Fund
The TWC Skills Development Fund partners with local community colleges to provide customized workforce training grants. Hill Country employers in hospitality, healthcare, and manufacturing can access training for new and existing employees.
Texas Commission on the Arts
Arts and cultural tourism businesses may access grants through the Texas Commission on the Arts for programming that drives visitor spending and community engagement.
Agriculture and Wine Industry
- USDA EQIP: Conservation cost-share for ranchers and agricultural producers.
- Value-Added Producer Grants: For producers adding value through processing, packaging, or agritourism.
- Specialty Crop Block Grants: Available through TDA for grape growers and other specialty crop producers.
- FSA Farm Loans: Operating and ownership loans for agricultural operations.
Local Resources
- City EDCs: Fredericksburg, Kerrville, Boerne, and other Hill Country cities operate economic development corporations with local incentive programs.
- UTSA SBDC: Free business consulting for Hill Country entrepreneurs through the University of Texas at San Antonio network.
- Hill Country SCORE: Free business mentoring from experienced professionals.
Steps for Hill Country Business Owners
- Confirm rural eligibility: Check USDA eligibility maps for your specific location.
- Contact the UTSA SBDC: Get free help identifying programs for your industry and location.
- Explore GO TEXAN: If you produce Texas-made products, this free program provides marketing leverage.
- Check local EDC incentives: Each Hill Country city may offer different incentive packages.
- Review USDA agriculture programs: Ranchers and producers should explore EQIP and VAPG.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Hill Country businesses often qualify for rural programs that metro businesses cannot access. Our screening report checks your business against federal, state, and local programs based on your location, industry, and situation. Start your free screening →