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Dear Texas Economic Development Stakeholders,
Texas works! Our state's highly skilled, diverse labor force is now more than 15 million strong, according to the latest employment data. In May, Texas added 51,000 new jobs, again breaking all-time records for total jobs, Texans working and labor force.
The mighty Texas economy is expanding faster than the nation as a whole, now for the fourth quarter in a row! First quarter 2023 GDP data from the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows that Texas GDP grew at an annual rate of 3% compared to 2% for the U.S.
In other exciting news, Texas once again leads the nation for Fortune 500 corporate headquarters locations with 55 total in 2023. Officially the HQ of HQs, Texas offers an environment where corporate operations across diverse industries can thrive. Download the full Fortune 500 HQ map below!
We hope you had a wonderful Independence Day holiday! Now that summer has arrived and travel season is here, be sure to check out EDT's Let’s Texas website for things to do across the state. From beautiful beaches, state parks and outdoor adventures to rich culture, food, art, shopping, history, sporting events and more—Texas has the perfect adventure for everyone. Safe travels and enjoy your summer vacations!
In the July issue of the Texas Business Bulletin, you'll find an update on legislative changes to state economic development programs, our economic snapshot, recent project announcements, hot off the press publications, upcoming and past events and more. Plus, you'll get to meet some of our new team members!
As always, please be sure to visit our website, follow us on social media or reach out to a member of our team if we can be of any assistance!
 -Adriana Cruz, Executive Director, Texas Economic Development & Tourism
  Unemployment Rate: 4.1%
Jobs Added in May: 51,000
Job Recovery Rate: 164%
Workforce: 15 million
New Application Window Still Open
Applications for the Texas Travel Industry Recovery Grant (TTIR) program, administered through EDT's Economic Development Finance Division, remains open for a new application category. The TTIR Program provides reimbursement grants of up to $20,000 for the recovery of Texas businesses in the tourism, travel and hospitality industry that were negatively impacted during the pandemic.
The new category opened applications for additional NAICS codes and also reopened the application process for all previous applicants who may now qualify for funding or for additional funding. See the full listing of eligible NAICS codes at ttir.gov.texas.gov.
For eligibility and grant application details, deadlines, an application instruction video and the TTIR application portal, click the link below.
Hot off the Press
Texas Bragging Rights
In Texas, we like to say “It ain’t bragging if it's true!” Download the latest Texas Bragging Rights for a snapshot of our state's recent awards and accolades in economic development, workforce and more. And don't forget to share it with your network!
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Governor Greg Abbott signed the Texas CHIPS Act into law at the Texas State Capitol in June. (Credit: Office of the Governor)
Texas is focused on remaining the best state for economic development in the nation. That is evidenced by the robust economic development agenda passed during the 88th Texas Legislative Session. These bills, signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott, focus on strategic investments in economic development incentive programs, higher education, workforce training, infrastructure, innovation and more. Here's a look at some of state's economic development updates and changes to ongoing programs as a result of the 88th Legislative Session:
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The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office underwent Sunset Review this past year. The Sunset Commission—a joint commission of Senate and House members—held an 18-month review of the Office’s operations and passed legislation to continue the functions and programs of EDT until 2035.
- The Texas Jobs, Energy, Technology, and Innovation Act is a new competitive economic incentive program to attract large-scale economic development projects, bringing new capital investment and creating new, high-paying jobs in Texas communities. It will help ensure our communities have the necessary economic development tools in their toolbox to be able to compete for capital-intensive projects.
- Qualified projects are eligible to apply to the Texas Comptroller, and with Governor and school district approval, may enter into an agreement for a value limitation of 50% of the school district property tax M&O rate for a specified 10-year period.
- Applicants are eligible for an additional 25% limitation value if locating in an opportunity zone.
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Texas Semiconductor Innovation Consortium, established under the Texas CHIPS Act, is a new program that will develop a statewide strategic plan for semiconductor industry growth and ensure the state’s leadership in advanced semiconductor research, design and manufacturing. The Semiconductor Innovation Fund will provide matching funds to Texas higher education institutions for eligible semiconductor manufacturing and design projects and provide the opportunity for eligible businesses to apply for grants to encourage economic development and job creation.
- The Texas Space Commission is a new commission with grantmaking authority to support development of emerging technologies, research, workforce training and infrastructure for space exploration and commercial aerospace; to promote innovation; and to attract capital investment and new jobs. It is supported by the Texas Aerospace Research and Space Economy Consortium, a higher education consortium with a joint mission to develop a comprehensive strategic plan to strengthen the state's proven leadership in civil, commercial and military aerospace activity.
- The Texas Enterprise Fund (TEF) was appropriated $150 million in the 88th Legislative Session. TEF awards “deal-closing” grants to companies considering a new project for which one Texas site is competing with other out-of-state sites, serving as a performance-based financial incentive for projects that would contribute significant capital investment and create new jobs.
- Modifications were made to the Texas Enterprise Zone in EDT's Sunset Bill, providing a telework allowance for qualified jobs and allowing electronic submission of applications.
- The Texas Small and Rural Community Success Fund will provide loan funding to economic development corporations in Texas for economic development purposes.
- A Micro-Business Disaster Recovery Program (originally created in the 87th Legislative Session) received appropriation in the 88th Legislative Session. This program can be used to provide zero interest loans to eligible CDFIs for purposes of making interest-bearing loans to qualifying micro-businesses.
- Texas is investing in the future of our workforce through the Public Junior College State Finance Program and Financial Aid for Swift Transfer (FAST) Program for students enrolled in dual credit courses at participating institutions of higher education.
- Moving at the speed of business, Texas is creating Specialty Business Courts with judges that specialize in complex commercial litigation. One more reason the Lone Star State will continue to lead the nation in attracting job-creating business investments.
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The Texas Moving Image Industry Incentive Program received an increased appropriation, now totaling $200 million. This program provides qualifying moving image productions the opportunity to apply for a cash grant based on a percentage of a production’s in-state spending, including eligible wages for Texans.
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The Media Production Development Zones program now permits smaller communities to be designated, allowing for certain tax exemptions for construction, maintenance or renovation of a media production facility, based on factors such as job creation and wages.
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Texas Music Venue Incubator Grants is a new grant program providing eligible music venues and music festival promoters the opportunity to apply for a partial rebate of certain taxes to encourage expansion of the live music industry and support more jobs in Texas communities.
These are just some of new programs and initiatives established which will support Texas' focus on remaining the best state for business in the nation. By investing in our state's future and upholding our excellence in economic development, Texas will continue to attract new opportunities that promote increased prosperity for our entire state. Our office will continue to offer updates as information becomes available. Read more on the results of the 88th Legislative Session in an opinion piece from Governor Greg Abbott in Business Facilities magazine.
The U.S. Department of the Treasury has approved Texas' application for funding through the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). Texas has the potential to receive more than $472 million to operate two programs—a capital access program (CAP) and a loan guarantee program (LGP)—that will increase access to capital for Texas small businesses. The CAP, allocated $118 million, will provide portfolio insurance for business loans, and the LGP, allocated $354.1 million, will provide loan guarantees. Together, the CAP and LGP will constitute the Texas Small Business Credit Initiative (TSBCI) program.
TSBCI will assist small business growth and create new jobs in Texas through increased access to small business funding. TSBCI is administered by EDT's Economic Development Finance Division, within the Office of the Governor, on behalf of the U.S. Department of the Treasury.
For more information about the federal SSBCI program, please visit the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s website. Additional guidance, forms and other resources related to Texas' TSBCI program will be posted at the program website as details become available. You may also sign up for updates to be notified as soon as our office has new information on the program.
 MEDICA 2023 Ι Düsseldorf, Germany I November 13-16, 2023
Texas Economic Development & Tourism invites Texas companies to apply to join the Texas Pavilion at MEDICA, the world's largest event in the medical sector. MEDICA 2023 is expected to bring together more than 81,000 attendees and 4,500 exhibitors from across the globe. For more than 40 years, this event has been firmly established on every industry professional’s calendar. MEDICA offers an extensive program, showcasing the entire spectrum of health care-related fields and innovative medical technologies from around the world. To learn more about this event, visit www.medica-tradefair.com. For more information on eligibility and to register your interest, click the link below.
Application Deadline: July 12, 2023
  
In June 2023, EDT Executive Director Adriana Cruz attended and gave remarks at the grand opening of SK Signet's new electric vehicle charger manufacturing facility in Plano. (Photo Credit: Plano Star Courier)
 Texas' success in attracting the most corporate expansion and relocation projects in the U.S. is thanks to a unique combination of competitive business advantages that no other state can claim. For more on these business advantages, visit our Why Texas webpages. Here are some recently announced projects in regions across the state:
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General Motors in Arlington: General Motors announced they will invest $500 million in their Arlington Assembly plant to upgrade the facility to build the next generation of full-size gasoline-powered SUVs.
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Canadian Solar in Mesquite: Canadian Solar announced a new U.S. module manufacturing facility in Mesquite, representing an investment of more than $250 million and the creation of 1,500 new jobs. This is Canadian Solar's first U.S. manufacturing facility.
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SK Signet in Plano: Korea-based SK Signet announced a new electric vehicle charger manufacturing plant in Plano, expected to create more than 180 new jobs. The new facility will have the ability to produce more than 10,000 chargers per year.
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Drax in Houston: Drax selected Houston as the North American headquarters for their Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage business. The operation will create more than 100 new jobs.
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Wipro in Austin: Wipro celebrated the grand opening of their 5G Def-i Innovation Center in Austin, which will provide a controlled environment designed to simulate real-world conditions, allowing clients to optimize the performance of 5G networks and devices.
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Albers Aerospace in Amarillo: Albers Aerospace will bring a new facility to Amarillo, bringing more than 400 new jobs and an economic impact of more than $100 million.
Upcoming Governor's Small Business Summits
Governor's Small Business Summit — Arlington
July 13, 2023 Ι 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Ι Globe Life Field
The Governor's Small Business Summit — Arlington aims to help Texas small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs reach new heights by connecting them with the resources and information needed to start, strengthen and grow a business. This event offers a variety of sessions bringing together local, state and federal resource partners to provide key insights on critical business topics. It's also an opportunity to network with other business owners and meet experts who will share timely, relevant and actionable advice on a multitude of small business subjects.
 Other Upcoming Events
Be sure to check in at gov.texas.gov/events as we continue to announce additional event details, speakers, panelists and webinars for 2023!
Jimmy Pokorny joined the Business & Community Development team as a Research Specialist in May 2023 after having served as a contract employee since November 2022. Prior, he spent more than 29 years working for FTI PlattSparks, an oil and gas consulting firm, where he served as Senior Consultant. Specializing in data analysis, he is an Excel power user and has relational database experience utilizing dBase and Visual FoxPro. He also served as the firm’s network administrator where he authored numerous and diverse procedures and provided Level 1 and Level 2 technical support. Jimmy also writes and reads about Czech history. You many reach out to Jimmy through our staff directory.
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Jennifer Kolbe joined the Business & Community Development team as a Project Development Coordinator in June. Jennifer’s experience includes working as a regional representative for a large electric cooperative, and leading economic development corporations at the local level in the San Antonio region. She is most excited about the future with the Governor’s Office and the opportunity to work with a dynamic team helping companies and community partners create jobs that make a positive economic impact for all Texans. She is a native Texan and a graduate of Texas Lutheran University. Her proudest accomplishment, shred with her husband, is raising their three children, who are now successful young adults. Becoming an “empty nester” is a new role after being a baseball, softball, band, football, 4-H, U.I.L and cheer Mom. When not a work, Jennifer enjoys gardening, fishing and raising Labrador Retrievers. You many reach out to Jennifer through our staff directory.
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Nidia Ramirez joined the Business & Community Development team in June as a Business Assistance Specialist. Nidia was originally born in Colombia and raised in Florida where she decided to become a U.S. citizen. She moved to Texas in 2006, looking for exceptional schools for her sons. Nidia began working at the Texas Workforce Commission in 2008 in the Regulatory Integrity Division where she gained experience in Labor Law, Fraud Persecutions, Unemployment Tax and Vocational Rehabilitation Services. She is very active teaching group fitness classes on the weekends where she motivates her students to take care of their health. Nidia enjoys working with the community and the public and looks to continue providing excellent customer service. You many reach out to Nidia through our staff directory.
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Elizabeth Sanchez joined the Business & Community Development team as a Program Specialist for the Project Development team in June. Elizabeth grew up in Temple. She received her bachelor’s degree in Retail and Consumer Science from the University of Houston. After college, she moved to New York City for four years where she worked selling sustainable clothing, diamonds and custom diamond engagement jewelry. Her favorite part of customer service is connecting with others and being a part of the journey with the customer. She recently moved back to Texas in January with her fiancé, who she met in New York City and is from Buffalo. Currently, she is working toward a graduate gemologist program. When she is not at work, she enjoys doing archery with her Olympic recurve bow and relaxing with a long skin care routine. You many reach out to Elizabeth through our staff directory.
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 “It ain’t bragging if it's true!” Here are some of the recent accolades Texas has received:
- Texas was named the Best Business Climate in America for 2023, from Business Facilities Magazine.
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Texas was awarded a Silver Shovel from Area Development Magazine, plus a 2023 Manufacturing Project of the Year: Texas Instruments' expansion in Sherman with the potential to create up to 3,000 new jobs and $29 billion in investment.
- Texas is home to 55 Fortune 500 corporate headquarters locations, according to the latest ranking—more than any other state in the nation.
- The University of Texas at Arlington and Texas State University ranked among top American colleges and universities for sustainability milestones in the 2023 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.
- Texas again took the #1 ranking in semiconductors from Business Facilities, in addition to top rankings in aerospace/defense, life sciences, customized workforce training, tech talent pipeline, EV charging infrastructure and more.
Governor's Small Business Summit — Amarillo
 The Governor's Small Business Summit — Amarillo welcomed local small business owners and entrepreneurs to the Amarillo Civic Center on June 1. The event offered two tracks of panel sessions, covering a multitude of small business topics as well as a keynote panel featuring well-known local business owners. The Governor's Small Business Awards were presented to various entrepreneurs for excellence in business, community partnership and innovation, among other categories. Find more photos from the event here and watch the full panel and keynote sessions on YouTube. To find other upcoming events, visit gov.texas.gov/events.
 2023 BIO International Convention
 The EDT team joined Texas Healthcare & Bioscience Institute and other state, local and corporate partners at the 2023 BIO International Convention in Boston, Massachusetts. Other Texas biotech and life sciences industry representatives included the Cancer Prevention & Research Institute of Texas, Texas State University, Dallas Regional Chamber, BioLabs Pegasus Park, Brazos Valley Economic Development Corporation, BioMedSA and others. Thanks to our partners, the Texas Economic Development Corporation, for ongoing support in helping promote the strong and growing Texas biotech industry to companies around the world.
Governor's Small Business Summit — The Woodlands
 The Governor's Small Business Summit — The Woodlands took place on June 15, and connected area businesses with local, state and federal resource partners and subject-matter experts. More than 200 attendees networked with other like-minded entrepreneurs and discovered tips to maximize the potential of their small businesses. Panel topics included access to finance and funding, cybersecurity, marketing, e-commerce essentials and workforce development. See more photos from the event here. To find other upcoming events, visit gov.texas.gov/events.
2023 International Paris Air Show
 EDT hosted the Texas Pavilion at the 2023 International Paris Airshow in June. Texas companies in the aerospace and aviation field joined us at this industry-leading, global trade show to explore potential business partnerships and showcase their products and services to more than 140,000 industry professional visitors from around the world. The delegation of Texas companies included 14bis Supply Tracking, Aereos Defense, Andrews Aerospace, Aerospace Quality Research & Development, Green Taxi, Jana, Killdeer Mountain Manufacturing, Inc., Knight Aerospace, Nanoflow Advanced Nanocoatings, RAM Inc. and Venus Aerospace.
Texas Economic Development Council Mid-Year Conference
 Photo Credit: Texas Workforce Commission
EDT team members attended the Texas Economic Development Council's Mid-Year Conference in June in Allen. EDT's Executive Director Adriana Cruz, Director of Business & Community Development Larry McManus and Finance Specialist Will Jackson gave a presentation to the group on updates and changes to state economic development programs as a result of the 88th Texas Legislative Session.
Governor's Small Business Summit — Kingsville
 The Governor's Small Business Summit — Kingsville took place on June 29, offering valuable information and expert advice on a number of critical business topics. They keynote panel featured a conversation with local business owners, Ysidro and Tito Villarreal of Big House Burgers, Elena’s Cocina y Cantina, and Rancho Cielito Lindo. Thanks to our partners, the Kingsville Chamber of Commerce Texas Workforce Commission for helping make this a successful event! Find more photos from the event here and visit gov.texas.gov/events to find other upcoming events.
 Interested in working with the best state economic development team in the country and helping grow the Lone Star State's economy? Come join our team! There are multiple positions for experienced professionals in Economic Development Finance (EDF), the Texas Workforce Investment Council and other divisions. Here's a select sampling of open positions:
For more information on available positions, visit gov.texas.gov/employment.
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