The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (Pharr EDC) successfully hosted the Industrial Warehouse Summit (IWS), a specialized forum that brought together business leaders, developers, financial institutions and local officials to discuss investment opportunities and industrial growth in South Texas.
Held at the Pharr Research & Development Center, the event aimed to strengthen collaboration between public and private sectors while promoting new investments in infrastructure, energy, and technology to position Pharr as a strategic hub for cross-border commerce.
Victor Pérez, President and CEO, Pharr EDC, said the city continues to experience steady expansion driven by interest from companies in both the United States and Mexico. “We are projecting strong growth for the city of Pharr. There are many companies interested in investing in Pharr, and they want to know what is needed and what land is available, not only from the United States but also from Mexico,” Pérez said.
The program addressed business opportunities, available industrial land, incentives, clean-energy programs, financing for construction projects, permitting processes and urban development. Jaboney Rodríguez, Vice President of Brokerage Services, FORUM CRE, highlighted Pharr’s growing appeal for manufacturers.
“The importance of this event is showcasing everything being developed in Pharr, along with the expansion of the international bridge that will enable greater growth and prosperity for the city, as well as major opportunities for manufacturers and logistics firms,” he said.
Carlos Telles, First Vice President, CBRE in South Texas, said the summit demonstrated regional collaboration to bolster industrial development. “Events like this, bringing together banks, customs brokers, insurance firms and authorities, show that the community is working together to strengthen industrial development and build investor confidence,” he said.
The Industrial Warehouse Summit 2025 reaffirms Pharr’s role as a leading industrial and logistics hub on the South Texas border, attracting new companies and driving job creation, innovation and economic growth.
IBC Bank Highlights Financing Services for Investors
IBC Bank executives underscored the institution’s financing services for international investors during the Industrial Warehouse Summit 2025, hosted by the Pharr Economic Development Corporation in Pharr, Texas. Blanca Villalobos, Executive Vice President of Commercial Lending, and Noraa Gamundi, Vice President of International Services, presented financing solutions for businesses seeking expansion and development in industrial and commercial markets.
Gamundi detailed a range of loan options available to clients, including financing for land acquisition, land development, warehouse construction, such as cold-storage facilities, and the purchase of income-producing real estate such as commercial buildings, apartments and residential properties. The bank also offers mortgage loans for customers purchasing residential properties in the United States.
Villalobos emphasized the bank’s cross-border presence and direct support model, noting that IBC Bank operates 165 branches and serves customers in both the United States and Mexico. Executives travel to Mexico 42 weeks per year to meet face-to-face with clients.
“Customers are more than a number. The stronger the connection we have with them, the easier it is to collaborate, whether in personal loans or financing to start new businesses,” she said.
IBC Bank’s participation in the summit reaffirmed its commitment to supporting investors and growing companies by offering tailored financial solutions and strengthening long-term client relationships.
The Pharr Economic Development Corporation (PEDC) is the City of Pharr’s primary economic development agency. As a nonprofit organization, the entity is committed to driving a strong business climate and enhancing quality of life for the Pharr community. Its mission includes attracting and retaining businesses, supporting local investment, advancing tourism initiatives, and shaping strategic marketing efforts for the city.
By building long-term partnerships with government leaders, industry stakeholders, and community organizations, the PEDC identifies opportunities to strengthen key industries and fuel sustainable economic growth. PEDC also champions community development projects and promotes Pharr’s expanding economy and exceptional quality of life.