Emmitt Smith to headline Edinburg business conference

The Edinburg Chamber of Commerce is hosting a business conference aimed at connecting local entrepreneurs with resources, insight, and high-profile speakers, including NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith.

The event, titled “The Business Playbook,” is scheduled for April 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Edinburg Conference Center at Renaissance. 

“This conference is designed to connect people, spark ideas, and create new opportunities,” said Nick Cantu, president of the Edinburg Chamber board.

Focus on local business growth

Ronnie Larralde, executive director of the Edinburg Chamber of Commerce, said the event reflects a broader effort to strengthen the local business ecosystem through collaboration between the chamber, the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation, and the city.

“Whether it’s the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation driving business recruitment and job creation, the chamber promoting and advocating for our local businesses, or the city providing essential services, each plays a critical role,” Larralde said.

Edinburg Mayor Omar Ochoa said the conference is part of a broader push to ensure local businesses have the tools and visibility needed to succeed.

“This business conference is just one example of that,” Ochoa said. “It’s making sure that our business owners have the information that they need to succeed and bringing more attention to our local economy here in Edinburg.”

Richard Gonzalez, vice president of the Edinburg Economic Development Corporation board, said the event will focus on connecting businesses with the networks they need to help them grow.

“This small business expo is about connection,” Gonzalez said. “It’s about bringing people together, sharing resources, and creating real opportunities for growth.”

Conference to highlight UTRGV Football’s impact

Organizers said the conference will include networking opportunities, expert-led sessions, and discussions focused on business development, innovation, and community growth.

One featured session, titled “Home Field Advantage,” will be presented by the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley athletic department and will examine the economic impact of athletics and community engagement in the region.

The conference will also feature Smith, the NFL’s all-time leading rusher and a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Dallas Cowboys, as the keynote speaker.

Organizers said Smith will bring insight on leadership, business, and personal development.

“This is the caliber of leadership, excellence, and insight that we’re bringing right here to Edinburg,” Larralde said.

Expanding access to business resources

Chamber leaders said the goal is to bring the type of insights typically found at national conferences to local businesses in the Rio Grande Valley.

“We are bringing that same level of value, insight, and inspiration right here to Edinburg,” Cantu said.

Officials encouraged business owners and community members to attend and take advantage of the opportunity.

“Small businesses are the backbone of Edinburg,” Gonzalez said. “They keep our economy moving and thriving.”