Finalists announced for up to $100K RISE grants

3/21/2023 (Michael Hutchins, Herald Democrat)

The Sherman Economic Development Corp. recently announced four finalists for its 2023 Raising Innovative Sherman Entrepreneurs awards, also known as the grant program.  This year’s slate of finalists that are seeking up to $100,000 in grant funding include a transportation company and company that hopes to manufacture virtual reality technology accessories, among others.

This represents the third year for the incentive program, which is managed by SEDCO, Austin College and other community partners. The program issued its first grants in 2022 following a rocky start to its first season in 2020 and early 2021.

“It’s exciting to see new companies expanding and moving into Sherman and for us to be able to help them make that dream come true,” said Shannon Blake, SEDCO economic development specialist.

The four remaining finalists represent a variety of industries ranging from fashion and e-commerce to technology. The first finalist for this year’s awards is Hobo Loco, who are working to develop a footpad system that can be used with virtual reality technology. This can be used in gaming, but Blake said the company hopes that it can be implemented for a variety of uses.

Another finalist for this year’s grants is Big Girl Spa, who are developing, manufacturing and selling a series of wooden footboard for bathtubs. These boards are designed and marketed to shorter individuals, Blake said. Taylor’d Trends is the third finalist and sells fashion lines and clothing with a focus on ecommerce. The final company is Jade United, a transportation company that is seeking to increase its fleet size by purchasing a third truck for its business operations.

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