2 TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE Leadership Dialogue 12 Governor Greg Abbott America’s most ambitious governor talks about the path that delivered to Texas a record-setting 13th consecutive win in the Site Selection Governor’s Cup race. 18 Adriana Cruz Executive Director, Texas Economic Development & Tourism Offi ce — How Texas partners with a diverse array of economic developers statewide. 23 AaronDemerson President and CEO, Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC) — The state’s chief marketing arm for economic development leaves no stone unturned. 28 ArunAgarwal Board Chairman, Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC) — Dallas entrepreneur and textile executive Arun Agarwal leads an organization focused on being the best America has to offer. BIGGER BETTER TEXAS CONTENTS 2025-2026 I TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE 12 23 18 284 TEXAS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT GUIDE Target Sector Profi les 36 Advanced Manufacturing Texas is where the future of advanced manufacturing is building. 44 Energy Evolution Powering the grid requires a constantly growing mix of energy sources. Texas is up to the task. 50 Food and Livestock Products From high-grade beef cattle to award-winning wines, Texas grows food and beverage products to satisfy every palate. 55 Hospitality,TourismandCulture A growing number of places in Texas are being certifi ed as Tourism Friendly Texas Communities. Film, digital media and music get their day in the Texas sun too. 60 Information Technology and AI No need to fear artifi cial intelligence when you are in Texas. The Lone Star State ensures that businesses are not alone in harnessing the power of the chip. 36 50 55 44 60 32 Statistical Profi le Texas By the NumbersNext >