Bringing Big Ideas Back to Hondo from Amarillo!

The Hondo Economic Development Corporation and the Hondo Area Chamber of Commerce recently attended the 2026 Texas Downtown Conference, held November 2 through 4 in Amarillo, Texas. Hondo EDC Business Development Specialist Kaitlynn Jensen and Hondo Area Chamber of Commerce Director Jeana Holzhaus proudly represented Hondo while exploring innovative approaches to downtown revitalization, small business development, and community growth.

About Texas Downtown

Founded in 1985, Texas Downtown is a statewide organization dedicated to supporting the revitalization and economic vitality of downtown districts throughout Texas. Through education, advocacy, resources, and professional connections, the organization helps communities preserve their unique character while creating vibrant places for businesses, residents, and visitors.

Its annual Texas Downtown Conference is the only statewide conference dedicated specifically to downtown development and revitalization. Bringing together more than 300 attendees from communities of all sizes, the event provides opportunities for economic development professionals, chambers of commerce, downtown organizations, business owners, and community leaders to learn from one another and explore successful revitalization strategies.

Learning from Communities Across Texas

Throughout the conference, Kaitlynn and Jeana participated in educational sessions highlighting real-world challenges, innovative solutions, and successful initiatives taking place in downtown districts across the state.

One session highlighted the City of Brownwood's approach to creating vibrant downtown spaces through strategic partnerships, beautification efforts, business incentives, and consistent marketing. The discussion emphasized that revitalization does not always require major investments. Small improvements, inviting public spaces, and collaboration between local organizations and businesses can make a meaningful impact.

Another key focus was developing stronger support systems for entrepreneurs and existing small businesses. Sessions explored ways communities can connect business owners with training, mentorship, financing resources, and opportunities for sustainable growth. These discussions reinforced that a successful downtown depends not only on attracting new businesses but also on helping existing businesses thrive.

Vacant building redevelopment was another important topic. Representatives from the City of Killeen shared their approach to addressing vacant and deteriorating properties, while additional sessions explored the financial and logistical challenges of bringing older downtown buildings back into productive use. These conversations provided valuable perspectives on working with property owners, identifying redevelopment barriers, and encouraging private investment.

Attendees also explored strategic planning techniques to help communities prioritize projects, maximize available resources, and ensure new initiatives are both impactful and sustainable.

Bringing Ideas Home to Hondo

For Hondo, these discussions were especially relevant as the community continues exploring opportunities to strengthen its downtown district, support local entrepreneurs, encourage investment, and enhance the overall downtown experience.

One of the greatest highlights of the conference was the opportunity for Kaitlynn and Jeana to exchange ideas and discuss ways the Hondo EDC and Chamber can continue strengthening their partnership. Both organizations recognize the importance of collaboration in supporting local businesses, promoting community events, attracting visitors, and creating new opportunities for economic growth.

The conference provided valuable connections, fresh perspectives, and practical ideas that can help guide future conversations and initiatives in Hondo.

Big ideas start with collaboration, and we're excited to bring this inspiration home as we continue working toward an even stronger, more vibrant Hondo!

Bringing Big Ideas Back to Hondo from Amarillo!

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