Page 72 - FDI Alliance International Magazine Summer 2020 Digital Interactive Issue

Tomball, Texas thrives on community. Helping past three years, 83 businesses have been aided Focus is also placed on existing businesses through
neighbors when times are tough is part of the and dozens of jobs created by the BIG program. economic development support efforts, another
culture of the city located just 30 miles north of strategic goal of the Tomball EDC. Events, such
Houston. This holds true for the Tomball business Launched in December 2019, the Façade as Tomball Business Roundtables, Job Fairs, and
community and Tomball Economic Development Improvement Grant (FIG) program is designed with annual Economic Outlook Luncheon provide
Corporation, which have rallied to support one an eye on Tomball’s cultural hub, Old Town Tomball. businesses an opportunity to network, recruit
another during the COVID-19 pandemic. This The FIG program offers matching grant funds to talent, and discover best practices.
commitment to working collectively, described as assist significant renovations in the Old Town
Tomball Together, has helped Tomball persevere Business District. The Tomball EDC reimburses Support offered to businesses is key to an increasing
and remain open for business. eligible participants 50 percent of their investment, number of companies relocating to Tomball. The
up to $50,000, for restoration and revitalization of Tomball EDC conveys the business-friendly
A collaboration between the Tomball EDC and building structures that complement a significant atmosphere present in Tomball. This message
the Greater Tomball Area Chamber of Commerce, overall façade enhancement. allowed Tomball to maintain a robust economic
TomballTogether.com is a one stop shop for Tomball climate and deliver a strong 2020 performance,
businesses who need information. TomballTogether. Several current Tomball businesses have used the despite challenges of COVID-19.
com has details on how to operate during the COVID-19-caused business slowdown to make
pandemic, including keeping workers employed long-term upgrades funded by grants from BIG The 99.5-acre Tomball Business & Technology
and the community served. TomballTogether.com and FIG programs. At a time when small businesses Park remains the crown jewel for development
provides information on federal loan programs, are looking at ways to stand out, the Tomball EDC and continues to attract businesses to Tomball.
small business resources, local health updates, grants provide critical capital for local businesses. This summer, two companies announced plans to
remote working tools, and local restaurants serving
the community.

Supporting existing businesses has always been
at the heart of the Tomball EDC’s strategic
mission. Through incentives like the Business
Improvement Grant and a newly launched Façade
Improvement Grant, businesses in Tomball have
greater opportunity to expand and thrive.

The Business Improvement Grant (BIG) program
is a matching grant program designed to help
property owners and businesses make high quality
improvements to buildings and property in Tomball.
The BIG program encourages investments that
relate to improving aesthetics of the community,
providing a more welcoming business environment,
and increasing commercial property values. In the

72. FDI ALLIANCE INTERNATIONAL