Cuero proudly welcomed the 2026 Governor’s Small Business Summit on April 16 at the Anne Friar Thomas Homemaking Building, bringing together entrepreneurs, industry experts, and resource providers for a day focused on growth, innovation, and connection.
The event was made possible through the generous use of the facility by the Cuero Livestock Show, as well as the sponsorship of LCRA, GVEC, and the Cuero Development Corporation.
Cuero was honored to be selected as one of just 15 cities across Texas to host this year’s summit. With more than 150 attendees registered and 20 small business resource vendors on-site, the event provided valuable tools, insights, and networking opportunities for both established and aspiring business owners.
The program was emceed by Donna Kappmeyer, CEO of Action-COACH, while Cuero Mayor Emil Garza welcomed guests and emphasized the importance of building relationships and leveraging connections within the business community.
Representatives from the Governor’s Office included Betty Russo, East Texas Regional Representative for the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office, and Jarvis Brewer, Small Business Advocate. Both shared valuable insights on resources available to help businesses thrive across the state.
Keynote speaker Teri Moten, Generative AI strategist, kicked off the morning with an engaging presentation on “Working with AI: Skills and Real-World Applications,” equipping attendees with practical tools for today’s evolving business landscape.
Panel discussions throughout the day highlighted marketing strategies, branding, and resource navigation. A marketing panel moderated by Cuero Development Corporation Executive Director Maggie Cromeens featured Dr. Jun Yan of Texas A&M University–Victoria, Roslyn Faust of Building Brands Marketing, and local entrepreneur Renee Wilke. A second panel, moderated by Lindsay Young of the Texas A&M University–Victoria Small Business Development Center, focused on leveraging state and local resources with representatives from the Texas Department of Agriculture, Texas Comptroller’s Office, and the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Theafternoonconcluded with a powerful panel of local business leaders moderated by Donald Jirkovsky of Lighthouse Development Resources. Panelists Edward Oakes (Cuero Lube & Tire), Greg Gossett (Ful-O-Pep), and ShaNon Henson (Exibix) shared candid insights into the realities of entrepreneurship, emphasizing perseverance, consistency, and resilience. When asked if they would do it all again, each responded with a resounding yes.
Attendees also enjoyed a networking luncheon catered by Mad Batter, with desserts prepared by the Cuero High School Culinary students. The culinary students also had the opportunity to stay and hear portions of the sessions, gaining valuable insight into entrepreneurship and small business ownership. In addition, the Cuero High School Floral Design class contributed beautiful table arrangements, showcasing the talent and creativity of local students. The Chamber and its partners were proud to highlight these programs, which are helping prepare the next generation of small business owners and workforce leaders.
Special thanks were also extended to Keep Cuero Beautiful for donating the floral arrangements that reflected Texas pride, featuring yellow roses, Texas flags, and a nod to Cuero’s turkey heritage.
Morning refreshments were provided by The Never Ending Cup and Rosie’s.
The summit was co-hosted by the Cuero Chamber of Commerce and the Cuero Development Corporation. A special thank you is extended to the Governor’s Small Business Assistance Team for bringing this impactful program to Cuero. It was a pleasure working alongside Small Business Advocate Jarvis Brewer, and Small Business Specialists Bryan Roller, David Menchaca Garcia, and William Taylor, whose dedication helped make the event a success.
Executive Director Angie Cuellar noted, “If we can help just one business succeed, then we have accomplished our goal.” Maggie Cromeens echoed this sentiment, adding, “When our businesses are successful, our community is successful.”
The event showcased Cuero’s strong commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth, reinforcing the community’s collaborative spirit and dedication to success.
