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By J.D. Houvener
Patent Attorney and Founder

Hey everyone, welcome to Bold Patents’ Corpus Christi page. If you’re an inventor, entrepreneur, or small business owner in the area, this one’s for you. I’m about to share my top five local resources that can help you turn your ideas into real products and real businesses.

Getting started isn’t easy. It can feel lonely, like you’re out there on your own trying to figure everything out. But the good news? Corpus Christi has some amazing programs and people ready to help you build, launch, and grow.

Let’s jump in.


1. Coastal Bend Business Innovation Center (CBBIC – Texas A&M University)
This one’s a gem. The CBBIC offers everything from pre-accelerator programs to co-working spaces. It’s where local founders meet, share ideas, and learn from one another. You’ll find workshops, startup coaching, and networking events, all under one roof.

One of the best things you can do early on is sit down with other inventors or small business owners and swap stories. What worked? What didn’t? You’ll save yourself months (and plenty of frustration) by learning from their experiences.


2. Del Mar College APEX Accelerator
This program focuses on helping small businesses land government contracts. If you’ve ever wondered how to get your product or service approved for government procurement, this is where you start.

They’ll walk you through the registration process, help you understand SAM.gov, and give you access to contract opportunities and training sessions.

A quick note before joining any accelerator or pitch program:
✅ Talk with a business attorney to make sure your company structure is solid.
✅ Speak with a patent attorney if you’ve created something new, file for protection before you pitch it publicly.

That step can save you from losing your rights later.


3. Women’s Entrepreneur Society
If you’re a female founder, this group is a must. It’s a supportive network focused on education, mentorship, and collaboration. Starting a business can be tough, and having people around who understand your challenges makes all the difference.

Find a mentor. Share your journey. Build your business with confidence.


4. South Coast Angel Network
Need funding? The South Coast Angel Network connects early-stage businesses with investors and mentors. These are people who want to back local startups and see them grow.

Just remember: before pitching your idea, have your patent or trademark conversations squared away. Protect your IP first, then share it with potential investors.


5. Corpus Christi Startup Ecosystem & Events
Don’t miss the local startup scene. From the Vision to Victory Small Business Summit to community-led events, there’s always something happening. You’ll find AI workshops, networking sessions, and training opportunities for entrepreneurs at every stage.

And here’s a bonus tip:
Reach out to the Corpus Christi Economic Development Office (CCDC). They offer free mentorship and guidance through SBA-sponsored programs. Real people. Real advice. No cost.


You’ve got a city full of support, take advantage of it.

And if you ever need help with patents, trademarks, copyrights, or trade secrets, or want an intro to a trusted business attorney, we’re here to help.
Visit boldpatents.com to book your free discovery call.

Go big. Go bold. And keep building. 🚀

About the Author
J.D. Houvener is a Registered USPTO Patent Attorney who has a strong interest in helping entrepreneurs and businesses thrive. J.D. leverages his technical background in engineering and experience in the aerospace industry to provide businesses with a unique perspective on their patent needs. He works with clients who are serious about investing in their intellectual assets and provides counsel on how to capitalize their patents in the market. If you have any questions regarding this article or patents in general, consider contacting J.D. Houvener at https://boldip.com/contact/