CONTENTS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE TEXAS Nothing Tops Texas 14 Cover Story Discover the secret to Texas’ unmatched business climate. 20 Statistical Profi le The Lone Star State’s unparalleled assets and accomplishments illustrated through facts and fi gures. 24 Economic Overview Why Texas continues to rise above its competition. Leadership Dialogue 30 Interview with the Governor By harnessing the state’s abundant resources, talent and entrepreneurial spirit, Governor Greg Abbott has laid the groundwork for Texas to continue its trajectory of success for generations to come. 40 Interview with Texas Economic Development Corporation Meet the new leader of the TxEDC: Aaron Demerson. 45 Interview with EDT Executive Director of the Texas Economic Development & Tourism (EDT) Offi ce Adriana Cruz outlines Team Texas’ “all-hands-on-deck” approach to fostering growth and furthering economic opportunity. 2 TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE 52 INVESTMENT PROFILE: Portland, Texas THE FUTURE IS 30 45 Cover design by Negin MomtazGlobal Market 54 Marketing Texas to the World How Texas leadership cultivates robust relationships with international allies that enhance mutual prosperity on a global scale. 60 Meet the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors One look at the TxEDC Board of Directors and the organization’s investors shows why Texas is such a strong magnet for business. 64 Big Deals A glimpse into some of the state’s recent wins. 66 FDI & Exports Find out why foreign businesses are choosing to invest in Texas. 69 Innovation Texan trailblazers are paving the way for industry and environmental advancements through their groundbreaking contributions. Workforce 74 Education Insight into the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board’s strategy to secure a pipeline of workers for high- demand industries. 80 Workforce With more than 326,700 jobs created in 2023, Texas’ workforce grew to over 15 million, the largest total in the state’s history. Region Profi les 90 Regional Economic Development In Texas, economic development is a team sport. 96 Rural Texas Rural communities are ripe with opportunity. 102 COSTEP Profi le Rio South Texas is ready for business. 4 TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE 86 INVESTMENT PROFILE: Terrell, Texas 66 54 80 90Next >