From workforce training and paid apprenticeships to affordable capital and hands-on technical assistance, these investments are designed to meet people where they are and help them build stability, opportunity, and long-term economic security.
“When small businesses grow and working families earn good wages, our whole county gets stronger. This is how we build an economy that works for everyone—not just those at the top,” Commissioner Ellis says. Here’s a snapshot of how these programs are reaching residents across the county and putting support into action:
- Hire Up Harris: A free workforce training program helping Harris County residents move into stable, in-demand careers across more than 30 industries. Since launching in 2023, Hire Up Harris has served 2,950 residents. The program pairs industry-recognized training and certifications with soft-skills coaching and wraparound support designed to boost completion, job placement, and long-term retention for underemployed and unemployed workers.
- Harris County Revolving Loan Fund: Harris County’s first-ever revolving loan program is helping small businesses access affordable capital—especially those long shut out of traditional financing. The fund has served 21 small businesses, including three veteran-owned firms, and with 100% classified as minority and women-owned business enterprises. As Houston Style Magazine reported, the fund was created to be “specifically designed to bolster small businesses, with a focus on enterprises owned by minorities and women,” offering low-interest microloans and growth capital to help businesses stabilize, grow, and create jobs—an effort championed by Rodney Ellis.
- Apprenticeship Advantage: A countywide investment expanding paid, on-the-job training pathways in both traditional and high-growth industries—from construction and public transportation to technology. Since launching in 2023, Apprenticeship Advantage has served 1,538 residents. The program partners with labor and workforce organizations to grow U.S. Department of Labor–registered apprenticeships and pairs training with wraparound supports to help residents complete programs, secure credentials, and move into long-term, living-wage jobs.
- Harris Hub: A small-business growth program providing hands-on, technical assistance to entrepreneurs across Harris County. The program has now delivered individualized support to 335 small businesses, helping owners strengthen marketing, financial management, and hiring practices. To date, 160 participating businesses have also received grants, rewarding those that complete intensive technical assistance with flexible capital to stabilize operations and continue growing.