Travis County is home to Austin, the state capital and one of the fastest-growing tech hubs in the country. With a thriving startup ecosystem, major university presence, and strong city and county economic development programs, Travis County businesses have access to a wide range of grants, incentives, and support resources.
This guide covers the most important programs available to businesses operating in Travis County, from city-level Austin programs to county, state, and federal resources.
City of Austin Programs
Austin Economic Development Department
The City of Austin's Economic Development Department administers several programs designed to support small and mid-size businesses. Key programs include:
- Small Business Program: Austin's Small Business Program provides technical assistance, mentoring, and capacity building for businesses with fewer than 100 employees. The program connects business owners with resources for growth, contracting, and financing.
- Family Business Loan Program: Low-interest loans for small businesses in Austin, administered through partner lending organizations. These loans may be available to businesses that do not meet traditional bank lending requirements.
- Chapter 380 Agreements: Austin can offer economic development agreements under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 380, which may include property tax rebates, fee waivers, or other incentives for businesses making significant investments. Learn about Chapter 380 agreements.
Austin MBE/WBE Certification
The City of Austin operates a Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE/WBE) certification program. Certified businesses receive procurement preferences on city contracts and subcontracting opportunities. Austin sets participation goals on many city-funded projects, creating opportunities for certified firms.
Austin Technology Incubator
The Austin Technology Incubator (ATI) at the University of Texas provides startup support, mentoring, and connections to funding sources. While ATI is affiliated with UT Austin rather than the city government, it is a key resource for Travis County technology businesses. ATI's clean energy, biosciences, and wireless technology tracks provide industry-specific support.
Travis County Programs
Travis County Small Business Enterprise Program
Travis County administers a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) program that provides contracting preferences on county procurement. Certified small businesses may receive bid preferences and subcontracting opportunities on county projects. The program is open to businesses meeting size standards regardless of the owner's demographic background.
Community Development Block Grants
Travis County receives federal CDBG funding and allocates a portion to economic development activities in unincorporated areas and smaller communities within the county. These funds may support microenterprise development, infrastructure improvements that benefit businesses, and community facility projects.
State Programs for Travis County Businesses
As the home of the state capital, Travis County businesses are particularly well positioned to access state programs:
- Texas Enterprise Fund: The Governor's deal-closing fund for businesses creating jobs and making capital investments in Texas. Read our Enterprise Fund guide.
- Texas HUB Certification: State procurement preferences for historically underutilized businesses. Travis County businesses are especially well positioned given the concentration of state agency headquarters in Austin. Guide to the Texas HUB program.
- Skills Development Fund: Workforce training grants through Austin Community College partnerships. Learn about the Skills Development Fund.
- Texas Music Office and Film Commission: Creative industry businesses in Austin can access state-level support through these offices, which are headquartered in Austin.
Federal Programs for Travis County Businesses
- SBA Austin District Office: Serves Central Texas and provides access to SBA 7(a) loans, 504 loans, microloans, and counseling services through local SBDCs and SCORE.
- SBIR/STTR: Austin's strong technology sector makes SBIR/STTR innovation grants a natural fit. NSF, DOD, NIH, and DOE all fund Austin-area technology companies through these programs. Guide to SBIR grants in Texas.
- HUBZone: Certain census tracts in Travis County are designated as Historically Underutilized Business Zones, providing federal contracting preferences for businesses headquartered in those areas.
- R&D Tax Credit: Technology companies in Travis County should evaluate the federal Research and Development tax credit, which can offset payroll taxes for qualifying startups.
Industry-Specific Opportunities
Technology and Software
Austin is one of the top technology hubs in the country. Technology businesses can access SBIR/STTR grants, R&D tax credits, and state workforce training grants for technical roles. The Austin Technology Council and Capital Factory provide additional ecosystem support.
Clean Energy and Sustainability
Austin Energy, the city-owned utility, operates some of the strongest commercial energy rebate programs in Texas. Businesses investing in energy efficiency, solar, or electric vehicle infrastructure may access Austin Energy rebates in addition to federal clean energy tax credits.
Film and Creative Industries
Austin's creative sector is supported by the Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program, local film permits, and the city's cultural arts funding. Creative businesses should explore both state and city-level programs.
How to Get Started
- Visit Austin's Economic Development Department: Explore the Small Business Program and available financing.
- Apply for HUB certification: Free state procurement certification through the Texas Comptroller.
- Contact the SBDC: UT Austin's SBDC provides free business counseling and can help identify programs.
- Check HUBZone and Opportunity Zone maps: Determine whether your business location provides additional eligibility for federal programs.
Find Programs That May Fit Your Business
Travis County businesses can access programs at the city, county, state, and federal level. Most business owners miss programs they may be eligible for simply because there are too many to track.
Not sure which programs may fit your business? Our free screening report checks your business against 150+ verified programs — grants, tax credits, loans, and incentives — and shows you which ones may match. Start your free screening →