Created in 1974 the Starr County Industrial Foundation (SCIF) is a non-profit organization founded and supported by local government and business leaders that are committed to further develop and diversify the local economy through sound, controlled economic growth. Over the years SCIF has developed a core competency in a varied spectrum of administrative and promotion roles which has placed it in a position to capitalize industrial and economical development in the Starr County region.

• Advise companies about our market and potential opportunities
• Assist corporations in finding office space or land sites
• Serve as an advocate to simplify the process of working with local governments
• Connect companies with influential business and community leaders
• Create strategic initiatives to support growth in specific industry sectors
• Identify potential financial incentives and cost-saving programs
• Energizing Business - Enriching Neighborhoods - Promoting Advocacy
• Fostering Training and Education - Strengthening Infrastructure
• Developing Skilled Workforce

Chair
Mr. Sam F. Vale
Starr Camargo Bridge Co., Owner

Vice-Chair
Mr. Richard Gutierrez
Gutierrez Ranch, Owner

Secretary
Mr. Larry Gonzalez
Plains Capital Bank, Vice President

Treasurer
Mr. Noel Benavidez
J.C. Ramirez Store, Owner

Member
Mr. Eloy Vera
Starr County Judge

Member
Mr. Joel Villarreal
City of Rio Grande City, Mayor

Member
Mr. Rey Ramirez
Rio Grande City, EDC, President

Member
Mr. Jose “Joe” Escamilla
Border Pacific Railroad, Vice President

Member
Mr. Billy Canales
Rio Motors, Owner

Member
Mr. Xavier Eli Perez
Xavier Eli Perez, CPA, PLLC, Owner

SCIF President
Ms. Rose Benavidez, MPA
Rose is a graduate from UTPA she holds a BA in Political Science and a MA in Public Administration

SCIF Vice President
Ms. Nilda Elizondo
Nilda is a graduate from UTPA she holds a BA in Communication-Journalism

Membership Directory: For a list please contact our office.