COSTEP Appoints Rafael Tapia as Grant Manager

June 5, 2023

Mission, TX, June 1, 2023 – COSTEP, Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Rafael Tapia as the new Grant Manager. In this role, Mr. Tapia will be responsible for overseeing grants and managing the grant programs for the Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development Foundation (RSTEF), a nonprofit private foundation focused on postsecondary and workforce development educational programs in Rio South Texas.

Rafael Tapia - Grant Manager

Rafael Tapia brings extensive experience in grant management and a strong commitment to educational advancement. With a deep understanding of the Rio South Texas region and a passion for fostering educational opportunities, Mr. Tapia is well-equipped to lead grant initiatives that will drive positive change in the community.

Prior to joining COSTEP, Mr. Tapia held key roles in grant management, and economic development, where he successfully facilitated funding opportunities and ensured the effective implementation of initiatives. His expertise in educational grant programs will be instrumental in strengthening RSTEF's impact and achieving its mission.

"We are delighted to welcome Rafael Tapia as our Grant Manager," said Adam Gonzalez, Chief Executive Officer of COSTEP. "His expertise in grant management and passion for educational advancement make him the ideal candidate for this role. We are confident that his leadership will strengthen our partnership with RSTEF and contribute to the growth and development of postsecondary and workforce education in Rio South Texas."

"I am honored to join COSTEP as the Grant Manager and work closely with RSTEF to support educational programs in Rio South Texas," said Rafael Tapia. "By leveraging grants effectively, we have the opportunity to empower individuals, enhance workforce readiness, and foster economic growth in the region. I look forward to collaborating with our partners to maximize the impact of RSTEF’s grant programs."

About COSTEP: The Council for South Texas Economic Progress is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing economic growth and prosperity in the Rio South Texas region. COSTEP collaborates with stakeholders to develop and implement strategic initiatives that attract investments, foster job creation, and enhance the quality of life for residents. By driving economic development, COSTEP aims to position Rio South Texas as a premier destination for businesses, residents, and visitors. For more information, visit www.costep.org.