INTERIM Committee Recommendations. Economic & Small Business Development. 10 Recommendations.

House Committee on Economic & Small Business Development 2016 Interim Committee Report  offers these recommendations:

• Increase outreach and tools available to small businesses
• Examine “economic incentive programs for their potential to better meet the needs of rural and small businesses“
• Chapter 313 Agreements
  • “recommends a closer look at Type A and Type B agreements to ensure that all Texas communities that choose to use this tool, are able to do so in the most effective manner possible. Additionally, the committee recommends Type A and Type B agreements be examined by the EIO Board to better allow the Board to take a comprehensive look at economic development in Texas.”
• Enterprise Fund
  • Allow for a supplemental awards or recipients who can demonstrate an investment in Texas businesses
  • “Recommends using the Enterprise Fund to reward large companies doing business with Texas based companies to potentially provide additional support for smaller businesses and those located in rural areas.”
• Venture Capital
  • “explore ways to increase access to capital and enhance the venture capital climate for small businesses in Texas “
• ​Governor’s University Research Initiative
  • Recommends including rising star researchers
• ​ Research and Development (R&D) tax credit
  • ​Recommends continuation
• Sharing Economy
  • ​Recommends statewide sharing economy policies for a stable environment for emerging industries & adequate consumer protections 
• Streamline Application process
  • ​Recommends 1 single application for economic incentives