a dynamic education series for entrepreneurs
The Big Tex Business Masterclass series was created to support and grow small business entrepreneurs in the food and beverage industry. This dynamic program, developed by the State Fair of Texas in collaboration with community and industry partners, provides targeted education, mentorship, and real-world exposure to help businesses strengthen their operations and scale sustainably.
The goal of the program is to equip existing businesses with the tools, knowledge, and discipline needed to operate successfully in high-volume environments, while fostering meaningful connections and opportunities for growth and visibility.
Participation in the program does not guarantee acceptance as a State Fair of Texas Food and Beverage Vendor. However, it offers valuable behind-the-scenes insight into Fair operations and a clear understanding of what it takes to be successful in this environment
This five-month cohort will include 7–10 businesses and will feature a combination of classroom instruction, one-on-one mentoring, and hands-on learning experiences designed to support business development and industry readiness.
Interested applicants must complete an application, participate in a product taste test, and commit to attending all program sessions and mentoring opportunities.
Click Here To ApplyMeet Our 2025 Big Tex Masterclass Graduates!
Grandma’s Hands
Breanna Hurndon & D’Andray Daniels
B&B Catering LLC
Brenda Hagler
Porch Swing Iced Tea
Brett Silva
Reverie Bakeshop
Bryan and Racene Nguyen
Hurryback Catering LLC
Chenitha Ellis
Brewer Concessions
Clayton Brewer & Jordain Williams
Locked n Loaded Potato House
Destiny Wilson
Shaved Ice & More
Deverly Orupabo
Purpose Macarons
Dusty Clem
Sawa Treats
Elvis Cho
Isabel’s Guatemala Restaurant
Jose Manuel Sanchez
You Can Live Again Sea Moss Store
Kertrina Dauway
GFF GOOD FREAKIN FOOD
Luis and Kristen Florentino
Chef MiMi J LLC
Meika Johnson
Cake Me Crazy
Pastry Chef Ty Howard
BRT Smoked Tex Mex
Robert Hinojosa
Thee Kitchen Beast
Shavonne Gay
Scrumptious Fried Pie Station LLC
Tiffany Qualls & JoAnnette Denman
Aguas Chicas DFW Catering & Concessions
Victoria Medrano & Sophia Ochoa
Our Big Tex Masterclass graduates Shine Bright
In 2019, our Masterclass graduate Kerston Crawford Thorns was featured on the Kelly Clarkson show! Click the button below to watch a clip from the episode.
CLICK HERE TO WATCH THE VIDEO


