Our Mission - To cultivate economic growth and prosperity by empowering small businesses with tailored educational initiatives, disseminating up-to-date research and data, and fostering impactful connections across Texas.
About us
Founded in 1950, BBB serving the Heart of Texas serves nearly 17,000 Accredited Businesses across 105 counties in Texas and has grown to be the 3rd largest BBB internationally. We proudly serve businesses of all sizes from Fortune 500 corporations to the small corner store through our standards-based accreditation model, and approximately 80% of Accredited Businesses are small businesses which are the backbone of the Texas economy. These small businesses make up the critical clusters of goods and services providers that form around major employers and big economic development in Texas.
Building on a strong foundation of success, BBB launched the Education Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, approximately 30 years ago. In 2024, the Foundation began a significant expansion to educate and empower small businesses and consumers throughout Texas through new programmatic initiatives to foster economic resilience and drive statewide prosperity.
Why?
Bolstering small businesses in Texas is not just a noble endeavor; it's a strategic imperative backed by compelling statistics. Small businesses grow economies, unlock the power of people, strengthen communities, and can often be the epicenter of innovation. Small businesses account for over 99% of all businesses in Texas and employ nearly half of the state's private-sector workforce. However, approximately 20% of small businesses fail within their first year, and around 50% close within five years. Empowering these small businesses and their customers is critical to our economy.
BBB Education Foundation is embarking upon an ambitious journey to enhance Texas' economic landscape through strategic education, empowerment of entrepreneurs, and robust consumer protection initiatives. Our goal is to fortify small businesses, safeguard consumers, and foster statewide prosperity.
Support Our Mission
Now is the time to make a difference. By supporting the BBB Education Foundation's expansion efforts, you contribute directly to strengthening the Texas economy. Together, we can combat high failure rates, stimulate job creation, protect consumers from scams, and fortify the economic ecosystem upon which our state relies.
With your support, in the next five years we will:
- Intensify how we educate and empower entrepreneurs.
- Broaden consumer education reach and scam prevention efforts.
- Expand our ecosystem to support businesses and consumers through strategic partnerships.
To learn more about supporting our expansion efforts and making a lasting impact on Texas's economic vitality, contact Executive Director of Development Bethany Leffingwell. Opportunities include annual partnerships, event and program sponsorships, and more. Together, let's build a stronger future for Texas!
BBB Education Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization, IRS number 74-2367865, DUNS number 832943760. Contributions are tax-deductible as charitable gifts.