Harris Hub Relaunches, Offering Free Coaching and $5,000 Grants to Small Businesses

Harris County small business owners can access free expert coaching and qualify for grants of up to $5,000 through the Harris Hub Program, a joint initiative between BakerRipley and Harris County that has continued taking applications on a rolling basis into 2026.

Also known as the Small Business Technical Assistance Program, the Harris Hub Program offers free support in key areas such as marketing, finance, hiring, and business growth. Eligible participants who complete at least 30 hours of assistance may qualify for a $5,000 grant to support and expand their business operations.

The program is looking to enroll 400 small business owners and will run through June 2026, funded by a $2 million grant from Harris County. BakerRipley partnered with Harris County to provide ARPA-funded business coaching to small businesses impacted by COVID-19, and once a participant completes 30 hours of technical assistance, their application is sent to Harris County for final approval.

To qualify, businesses must be located in Harris County, have 25 or fewer employees, be recognized in Texas and registered with the Texas State Comptroller, be at least 20% owned by the applicant, and have been operating since before January 27, 2020. Applicants must also either be located in a Qualified Census Tract or demonstrate a negative impact from COVID-19. Businesses operating as nonprofits, gambling operations, speculative real estate investments, or sexually oriented businesses are not eligible, and all applicants must meet income and tax compliance requirements.

Harris Hub funding flows to Business Support Organizations to increase their capacity to provide in-depth and culturally competent technical assistance to small and micro businesses affected by the pandemic, with a focus on minority- or women-owned business enterprises.

BakerRipley, in partnership with Harris County, presents the Harris Hub Program, offering free technical assistance to small businesses, including expert coaching in marketing, finance, hiring, and business growth. The nonprofit serves more than half a million people throughout Texas each year and is a United Way Agency partner.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. For eligibility details, required documentation, and to apply, visit BakerRipley.org. For questions, contact BakerRipley Communications Manager Elizabeth Hale at ehale@bakerripley.org or 832-963-3678.