Author: Catie George

DRC in ATX: Powering business growth through innovation

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By Rebekah Chenelle, Vice President of Public Policy 

On Friday, March 21, I had the opportunity to represent the Dallas Regional Chamber at the Texas Association of Business Foundation’s lunch-and-learn session for legislative staffers at the Texas Capitol. The event focused on powering business growth through innovation, specifically in energy infrastructure.  

Speaking at the Texas Capitol about powering business growth through innovation.

Here are the key points I shared with our lawmakers’ teams. 

DFW leads the way in Texas’ growth story

Our state’s economic success isn’t happening by accident. The Dallas-Fort Worth region continues to punch above its weight in contributions to the Texas economy. We have a 26.6% share of the state population, but we boast 28.7% of the state’s economy.  

Our region is projected to become the nation’s third-largest metro area by 2028. Our economic prowess and explosive growth create opportunities and challenges that require thoughtful policy solutions. 

Infrastructure is the foundation for continued success 

With this unprecedented growth comes increased pressure on our infrastructure systems. I emphasized three areas top of mind for the business community: 

      1. Water infrastructure 

We can’t discuss energy or infrastructure without also discussing Texas’s water needs. Without dependable water infrastructure, Texas risks up to $100 billion in economic losses and hundreds of thousands of jobs. 

At the DRC, we’re glad to see the Legislature has taken action on this critical priority, working to secure a dedicated funding source for our state’s water infrastructure. Both the House and the Senate have taken action, with joint resolutions and complementary bills moving through the legislative process, which are to be reconciled to send one joint resolution to voters this November and one bill to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk for signature.  

2. Energy reliability 

As Texas continues to lead the nation in energy production, we must ensure our grid can meet growing demands while supporting our competitive business environment. The DRC supports an “all of the above and below” approach to energy needs and encourages innovative solutions to efficient energy uses.  

We want crucial industries like tech and manufacturing to continue to move to Texas, but to sustain our growth, we need to utilize all the tools in our toolbox. Many of our member companies are leveraging technologies to make the grid more efficient and we encourage the legislature to spur these innovations—and not stifle them.  

3. Building an ecosystem that supports innovation 

Texas’ ability to innovate to solve our challenges and capitalize on opportunities depends on our workforce. Our workforce now spans four generations, with diverse education levels and skill sets. Upskilling and reskilling to help build experts in ever-growing technologies and to fill in-demand roles in innovative spaces is essential to keeping Texas on the leading edge—and it helps our people earn good wages that, in turn, fuel our economy. 

Additionally, we need to make sure our companies have the ability to foster innovation and grow new ideas and solutions to maintain our competitive advantage. To secure this, our lawmakers can extend Texas’ R&D tax credit—a vital tool set to expire in 2026 that could generate more than 113,000 jobs and $13.8 billion in additional Gross State Product over the next decade. 

Call to action for lawmakers 

I ended my time at the lectern with a direct message to our legislators: When companies decide to come to Texas, they’re betting on their future. Meaning they’re watching Texas to see how we are securing our future. The DRC hopes to see lawmakers work with our members and in-house experts to pass pro-growth, pro-business policies that contribute to growth and innovation.  

Thank you to our friends at the Texas Association of Business Foundation for giving us this audience with our partners in the Capitol. This is one of the many ways the DRC gets to represent our members’ interests in Austin, ensuring our region’s voice is heard as critical policy decisions are made. 

Is the ability to grow and innovate top of your mind for your company? Send us a note to join our advocacy efforts. 

DRC Expert: Quality of Life priorities for the 89th Texas Legislature

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By Jack Niland, Manager, Public Policy 

Public Policy Manager Jack Niland

At the Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC), promoting a high quality of life is central to our mission of making the Dallas Region the best place in America for all people to live, work, and do business. As we engage in the 89th Texas Legislative Session, we are focused on strategic initiatives that strengthen our communities, support our businesses, and enhance opportunities for everyone.

Our quality of life priorities in Austin center on four key areas: homelessness, housing, organized retail theft deterrence, and workforce reentry. Each of these issues directly impacts our region and companies, and we are committed to working alongside lawmakers to drive meaningful progress. 

Here’s a deep dive into each of these areas and how we’re measuring progress. 

Reducing homelessness through employment and data-driven solutions 

At the heart of reducing homelessness is ensuring access to stable, well-paying jobs. The DRC is working closely with business and community partners to connect individuals experiencing homelessness with employment opportunities that can set them on a path to success by securing funding to improve data sharing across in-state networks, which would enable more effective coordination of services and resources for individuals in need. By removing barriers and expanding opportunities, we can help rebuild lives and grow our region’s economy. 

Strengthening housing resilience against extreme weather 

The Dallas Region has experienced extreme heat, freezing temperatures, windstorms, tornadoes, and hail—all of which pose risks to homeowners and increase insurance costs. Investing in resilience initiatives is crucial to ensuring our communities remain protected. This session, we are advocating for critical funding to support windstorm-resistant housing and infrastructure improvements, which will help homeowners safeguard their properties and make our region more resilient in the face of natural disasters. 

Mitigating organized retail theft to protect businesses 

Retail theft has evolved into a highly organized enterprise, posing a significant threat to businesses of all sizes and negatively impacting economic growth. In this session, we are advocating for stronger deterrence measures to combat organized retail theft, including enhanced penalties for offenders and improved coordination between law enforcement and the private sector. Ensuring businesses can operate without the threat of large-scale theft is essential to maintaining a thriving commercial environment. 

Supporting workforce reentry to strengthen our economy 

Successfully reintegrating formerly incarcerated individuals into society begins with stable housing and employment. The DRC is championing policies that remove unnecessary barriers to reentry, allowing individuals who have served their time to secure jobs and contribute to our workforce while building a good life and career. This includes advocating for automatic orders of nondisclosure for certain non-violent misdemeanor offenses, which will help eligible individuals reenter the workforce without the long-term stigma of a criminal record. By easing this transition, we can create pathways to stability and reduce recidivism while addressing critical workforce shortages in key industries. 

Ensuring long-term prosperity for the Dallas Region 

The Dallas Region is already one of the nation’s best places to live, work, and do business. The DRC’s advocacy efforts at the Texas Capitol are crucial to preserving and strengthening that success. By reducing homelessness through employment, building more resilient communities, protecting businesses from organized crime, and supporting workforce reentry, we are ensuring that our region remains a place of opportunity and prosperity for all. As the 89th Texas Legislature progresses, the DRC is steadfast in our commitment to advancing policies that promote a high quality of life for all people. 

To learn more about the Public Policy team’s work, visit our website.  

DISD’s Pamela Lear: Leadership is ‘showing up with courage and authenticity’

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By Catie George, Director, Communications & Storytelling

Dallas Independent School District (DISD) is responsible for about 140,000 children, 49% of whom are young girls. To honor Women’s History Month, DISD Deputy Superintendent of Staff and Accountability Pamela Lear, Ed.D., shared her experiences, inspirations, and encouragement with the Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC).

“Women’s History Month is both a celebration and a call to action. It honors trailblazers who overcame immense challenges and paved the way for future generations,” said Lear. “Professionally, it reaffirms my commitment to creating equitable spaces where women’s voices are heard, valued, and empowered. This month amplifies the importance of mentoring, supporting, and fostering women’s leadership to ensure their potential is recognized and celebrated.”

DISD Deputy Superintendent of Staff and Accountability Pamela Lear, Ed.D.

Lear shared that though women have always been present in education, their leadership has expanded beyond the classroom.

“Our executive team includes six women leaders—a historic achievement for one of the largest school districts in the nation. As more women lead districts and state education departments, the momentum continues to grow, ensuring women will drive meaningful change across education.”

Influential women, such as Dr. Maya Angelou, who wrote, “When you learn, teach. When you get, give,” have shaped Lear’s view on education.

“Her message reminds me that education is about empowering others to find their voice and purpose. I’ve also been fortunate to have women mentors who believed in me before I believed in myself, challenging me to step into leadership roles,” she said. “Their guidance, combined with Angelou’s wisdom, has fueled my commitment to empower, mentor, and uplift the next generation of women leaders in education.”

Mentorship has shaped Lear’s career path, and she credits mentors for seeing her potential early as the reason she is where she is today.

“Mentorship programs pairing emerging leaders with experienced educators are crucial, offering guidance and encouragement,” she said. “It’s also key to identify high-potential women early and provide leadership opportunities. By investing in others, we create a culture where women are empowered to thrive.”

She hopes more women aspire to leadership in education and tells them to trust themselves and their ability to lead, even before they feel ready.

“Leadership isn’t about having everything figured out; it’s about showing up with courage and authenticity,” Lear said. “One of the most valuable lessons I learned early on is that leadership begins exactly where you are. Whether you’re a teacher, a coach, or an aspiring administrator, you have daily opportunities to inspire and make an impact. Never underestimate the difference you can make from the seat you’re in right now.”

In a high-visibility role to many young women, she hopes to serve as an example to them.

“I hope to inspire the next generation of women leaders in education by leading with authenticity and empowering them to believe in their potential. By fostering a supportive environment and leading by example, I aim to encourage confidence, resilience, and a passion for making a positive impact.”

To learn more about the work the DRC’s Quality of Life team is doing, visit our website.

DRC Member Spotlight: Arbisoft

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Founded in 2007, Arbisoft is a software services company based in McKinney that creates value through innovative and reliable tech solutions. They design, build, and power websites, applications, and software systems with long-term value addition in mind. Their expertise in traditional machine learning spans over 18 years and generative artificial intelligence for over six years. With a keen focus on innovation and sustainability, Arbisoft has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses worldwide.

How does Arbisoft help its clients create value?

At Arbisoft, value creation is at the heart of everything we do. Our approach emphasizes establishing long-term partnerships with clients. These partnerships thrive on trust, collaboration, and results. By bringing extensive expertise and innovative solutions to the table, we empower businesses to remain competitive in the constantly adapting business environment.

Whether it’s education technology or travel solutions, Arbisoft focuses on providing services that stand the test of time.

What differentiates Arbisoft within your industry?

There are two main principles that we believe differentiate Arbisoft.

      1. Value Over Profits

We believe that success isn’t measured only by revenue. Instead, we focus on getting meaningful results in line with our clients’ goals. This principle isn’t just a corporate philosophy—it’s a value deeply ingrained in every member at Arbisoft. This shapes the way we work and build relationships.

      1. Longevity in Relationships

Our commitment to creating lasting partnerships has been the driving force behind our growth. Many of our clients stay with us for years, valuing the reliability and consistency we bring to every project.

Being at the forefront of a constantly changing business is something we at Arbisoft take great pleasure in. Our teams use advanced technology and agile techniques to ensure that we provide solutions that are targeted at our client’s unique challenges.

What benefits does Arbisoft enjoy by doing business in the Dallas Region?

The Dallas Region offers Arbisoft a strategic advantage with its central location. Its central time zone further facilitates seamless collaboration across North America, making Dallas an ideal hub for Arbisoft’s continued growth. Its status as a major transportation hub makes easy connectivity for both national and international business. Another reason is the city’s thriving tech ecosystem. The region has access to top talent and possibilities because of its rapid expansion, specifically in tech. This makes Dallas the perfect place for technological expansion.

Why did Arbisoft become a Dallas Regional Chamber member?

Since software services is a remote-friendly business, most of our current clients seem to be from outside the Dallas-Fort Worth region. We wanted to deepen our local presence and leverage it to grow in the region. We see immense potential in strengthening our position in this dynamic region. By joining the Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC), we can build a bigger footprint in the area.

As a member, we want to meet with other businesses that share our values and work on projects together. We want to help the area maintain its technological and innovation leadership. We are excited about the opportunities DRC offers for networking and knowledge sharing. It also allows us to participate in initiatives that support economic growth and community development in the Dallas Region.

How has Arbisoft changed in the last five years?

In the past five years, Arbisoft has more than doubled in size. We have experienced remarkable growth and sharpened our focus on specialized solutions. We’ve shifted from providing general technology services to specializing in solution-oriented verticals, such as education technology and travel solutions. This strategic pivot has enabled us to deliver tailored, impactful services that cater to the specific needs of these industries.

To connect with Arbisoft, send them an email at contact@arbisoft.com.

State of Talent and Workforce: There are ‘millions of opportunities for talent’

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By Catie George, Director, Communications & Storytelling

The Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC) hosted its annual State of Talent and Workforce, presented by BGSF and Texas Mutual Insurance, on Thursday, Nov. 7, 2024, at the Fairmont Dallas. Business and thought leaders convened to hear from experts on workforce development, access, and expansion in the Dallas Region.

“The Dallas Region leads the nation in job growth almost every year, but we still see gaps in the skills that job seekers have versus those that are required for high-paying jobs and careers. The result is that employers have open positions they can’t fill,” said DRC President and CEO Dale Petroskey. “Those workers, especially young adults, often can’t earn a living wage, and that’s just wrong. That’s why these conversations are so important.”

The construction industry is suffering from workforce shortages

Ray Waddell of CEC Facilities answering audience questions.

There are career paths, such as construction, that need support and investment to address shortages outside of the traditional K-12 to higher education pipeline.

“I think there’s a problem in our country right now with the scope shortage that we have,” said Ray Waddell, Founder and Chairman of CEC Electric. “[Skilled work is] a secondary opportunity for a lot of these folks. And if we don’t change that, there are serious impacts in this country that we’re going to see… We need to understand that our industry pays top-notch wages and there’s a bigger need for these people today than there’s ever been.”

CEC Electric established a university for employees and high school students to be trained in the construction industry and increase learning outcomes.

“The trade and the construction industry aren’t what they used to be,” said Fred McHugh, Dean of CEC University. “It is a safe place, it is a professional environment, [and] it has a lot of career opportunities to grow.”

The panel made up of workforce experts discussed shortages and developing talent.

Companies should partner with workforce solutions firms to help fill their needs

“Our job at the DRC is to connect companies, educational institutions, and job seekers to find innovative solutions to fill these gaps so that our region remains the best place in America to live, work, and do business for all people,” said Petroskey.

In a panel moderated by Will Anderson, Editor-in-Chief of the Dallas Business Journal, panelists discussed what makes a partnership work for everyone involved.

“What makes a great partner is someone who really makes sure that their environment is conducive for that talent that’s coming in,” said Dr. Jasmine Collier, a DFW Market Executive with Year Up United. “You can have a mentor, but you also need someone who’s going to be a sponsor for you when you don’t have a seat at the table.”

Year Up United is a 25-year-old workforce development organization that offers a comprehensive suite of programs for employers and young adults, age 18 to 29, to “close the opportunity divide.”

“We run a number of programs and initiatives to get [young adults] connected to the other side of the divide, which is employers. We know in this region alone there are millions of opportunities for talent that need to be connected to employers like those of you who are in this room.”

Health care also suffers major workforce shortages

Also represented was Uplift Heights Healthcare Institute, a college and career-prep high school in West Dallas focused on in-demand health care jobs, established via a partnership between Baylor Scott & White Health and Bloomberg Philanthropies.

“[This community doesn’t] necessarily have access to or knowledge around health care,” said Phil Kendzior, VP of Workforce Development Programs with Baylor Scott & White. “Every single class has a health care element. As an example, when they go into their social studies class, they are learning about globalization and the impact of globalization on things like pandemics.”

Workforce solutions organizations need funding

Senior Vice President of Talent Strategies at the DRC Elizabeth Caudill McClain.

Phedra Redifer, Executive Director of Workforce Solutions for North Central Texas, shared that funding is the difference between her organization being able to function and having to choose between which services they can provide.

“We are very dependent on federal estate funds and depending on what’s happening in the political environment, those funds can be significantly decreased,” said Redifer. “Unfortunately, that then forces us to change the service delivery to our customers, which means that we will have to serve fewer people.”

There are gaps on both sides of the workforce divide that need to be addressed

In Texas, about 4 million people are looking for jobs. Regardless, it can be hard for employers to fill job openings.

“I’ve got 2,000 openings that I can’t fill,” said Phil Kendzior, VP of Workforce Development Programs with Baylor Scott & White. “It’s because the interests, awareness, or competencies aren’t aligned between those 4 million people and the 2,000 openings that I have. So, I think as employers, that’s our challenge and it’s a calling for us to go out there and build bridges.”

Thank you to our co-presenting sponsors, BGSF and Texas Mutual Insurance. And thank you to our silver sponsors, Bank of America, Dallas College, Forvis Mazars, and Oncor.

To join the next State of Talent & Workforce event, visit our events page.

To learn more about the work the DRC is doing in Talent and Workforce, visit our website.

Texas Legislature takes action on water infrastructure, key DRC priority

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By Rebekah Chenelle, Vice President of Public Policy 

As we approach the halfway point of the 89th Texas Legislative Session, we’re seeing meaningful progress on one of the Dallas Regional Chamber’s (DRC) top legislative priorities: securing a dedicated funding source for our state’s water infrastructure.  

Rebekah Chenelle, Vice President of Public Policy at the DRC.

Here’s a look at where we stand—and what happens next.

Governor makes water an emergency item 

In his State of the State address on Sunday, Feb. 2, Gov. Greg Abbott declared water infrastructure an emergency item, charging the legislature with making a historic investment to secure Texas’ water future for the next 50 years. This designation fast-tracks legislation addressing our water needs – a critical step as North Texas continues its rapid growth.  

We at the DRC are grateful Gov. Abbott elevated this issue. A long-term funding plan for water is critical to preparing us for decades of expansion, so we made water a top item on our legislative agenda and joined a statewide push for a dedicated funding source for water infrastructure. 

House, Senate take action 

On Thursday, March 6, two joint resolutions were filed to establish $1 billion in dedicated funding allocated annually to the Texas Water Fund, which was established in November 2023 following DRC advocacy efforts. 

      • Senate Joint Resolution 66, filed by Chairman Charles Perry, proposes funding through a combination of $500 million from sales and use taxes and $500 million from insurance premium taxes. This resolution ensures at least 80% of funds would be directed toward new infrastructure projects. 
      • House Joint Resolution 7, filed by Chairman Cody Harris, establishes the fund solely from sales and use tax revenue without specifying allocations. 

The joint resolutions establish where the funds come from and how much is dedicated, while complementary bills establish the administration of the Texas Water Fund for water projects in Texas. Chairman Harris filed House Bill 16 on Friday, March 7, and Chairman Perry filed Senate Bill 7 on Thursday, March 13, each proposing their own administration framework. 

When a bill or joint resolution is given a low number as these have been, it is deemed a priority in its respective chamber. The DRC thanks Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick and House Speaker Dustin Burrows for prioritizing investments in our state’s water infrastructure. 

Why this matters for North Texas 

With our region adding approximately 400 new residents daily and Dallas-Fort Worth set to become the nation’s third-largest metro by 2028, our aging water infrastructure faces unprecedented demands. 

As Rebecca Trevino, Chief Financial Officer of the Texas Water Development Board, noted at a DRC event, a lack of dependable water could result in statewide economic losses of up to $100 billion and hundreds of thousands of job losses. 

What comes next? 

Sharing the DRC’s Legislative Agenda during our Austin Fly-In. Photo by Matthew Lemke.

As the 89th Legislative Session continues, these bills and joint resolutions have a way to go until the finish line. We expect changes as the House and Senate reconcile their plans to send one joint resolution to voters this November and one bill to Gov. Abbott’s desk for signature. Joint resolutions must pass with a two-thirds majority vote before the constitutional amendment is placed on our ballots as a proposition.  

As a first step forward, HJR 7 is scheduled for a committee hearing on Wednesday, March 19.  

As always, the DRC will continue to work with our member companies, the legislature, and our statewide partners to ensure the voice of the business community is represented in the conversations ahead and that adequate investments are made to secure prosperity for current and future Texans. 

Are our state’s water needs impacting your business? We want to know about it. Send me a note, and let’s work together. 

Seeding Texas’ innovation future: Why the R&D tax credit matters

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By Mike Rosa, Senior Vice President of Economic Development 

Texas and Dallas-Fort Worth have enjoyed a record run of economic prosperity and corporate announcements. However, our winning economy isn’t automatic. We have to work strategically to keep our momentum.

Mike Rosa meeting with legislators during Austin Fly-In. Photo by Matthew Lemke.

A research and development tax credit is a key to unlocking our economic future. Our ability to foster innovation and grow new ideas, solutions, and companies from our own dirt is a critical part of our competitive advantage—and the Texas Legislature has an opportunity to secure that advantage by extending our state’s R&D tax credit. 

On Tuesday, March 11, bills were filed in both the House and Senate to offer a franchise tax credit for qualified research expenses that will encourage R&D investment across the state. Texas’ current R&D tax credit is due to expire in 2026. Passing Senate Bill 2206 by Sen. Paul Bettencourt and coauthored by Sen. Joan Huffman and House Bill 4393 by Rep. Charlie Geren is essential. 

Understanding Texas’ innovation gap 

Texas is the nation’s second-largest economy, but we rank No. 33 in R&D investment. We contribute just 4.3% of U.S. business-funded R&D, while California leads with a commanding 36.2%.  These figures represent missed opportunities for groundbreaking advancements, especially in high-growth sectors like life sciences, advanced manufacturing, and technology. 

The economic benefits at stake 

A new economic impact study by Dr. John Diamond of Rice University’s Baker Institute, commissioned by Texans for Innovation (of which the Dallas Regional Chamber (DRC) is a member), delivers compelling evidence: extending the R&D tax credit would create more than 113,000 jobs and generate $13.8 billion in additional Gross State Product in just the first ten years. 

For many industries, the R&D process represents the critical “first phase” where ideas and problems are developed into the products and solutions that power our economy. For our region—which has become increasingly attractive to life sciences companies like Verily, Koya Medical, and Psychemedics relocating from coastal hubs—R&D investment is the foundation of continued growth. 

Mike Rosa on an international trip with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

This tax credit helps us seed the future, loosening the soil for companies and their innovations to take root and contribute to our economy. 

The path forward 

As Dr. Diamond notes, “The question is not whether Texas can afford to extend the R&D tax credit, but instead whether Texas can afford not to.” 

Supporting SB 2206 and HB 4393 means strengthening Texas’ hand in the global competition for innovation leadership, ensuring DFW companies can keep building their new ideas right here in our backyard and that other companies choose our state for their most cutting-edge work.  

Is the R&D tax credit plan an opportunity for your business? We want to know about it as the DRC’s Public Policy team is down in Austin representing our region’s interests. Send the team a note to join our advocacy efforts. 

DFW stands out as Texas wins unprecedented 13th Governor’s Cup victory

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Texas is the undisputed champion of economic development in America, claiming Site Selection Magazine’s prestigious Governor’s Cup for an extraordinary 13th consecutive year, recognizing Texas as the nation’s epicenter for private-sector investment in 2024.

In Austin, Gov. Abbott and statewide partners celebrated the 13th Governor’s Cup.

With an impressive 1,368 corporate investment projects—more than doubling second-place Illinois and surpassing last year’s total by 114—Texas continues its commanding economic leadership. At the heart of this success: Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro, which generated 489 of these projects.

“Texas continues to lead the nation in economic development, and the Dallas-Fort Worth region remains at the forefront of our state’s remarkable achievement,” said Dallas Regional Chamber President and CEO Dale Petroskey. “As the top-performing metro in Texas, the DFW region’s contribution to the state’s success reflects the strength and vitality of our business ecosystem.”

DFW added 37 projects over its 2023 count, contributing to Texas’ 9% year-over-year rise in corporate investment projects. The region’s claim to 36% of Texas’ total projects—the lion’s share—underscores DFW’s pivotal leadership role in driving the state’s economic engine.

“This recognition is a testament to our community of economic development professionals who work collaboratively across city and county lines for the good of our region,” Petroskey added. “Their dedication to attracting and retaining corporate investment not only creates jobs and opportunities for Texans and their families but also reinforces Dallas-Fort Worth’s position as the top economic engine for continued prosperity in our great state.”

This objective, data-based ranking comes on the heels of site selection consultants naming Dallas the top city for headquarters in a Site Selection Magazine survey.

To qualify for the count of projects for the Governor’s Cup, a corporate project must do at least one of three things: invest at least $1 million, create a minimum of 20 jobs, or add 20,000 new square feet of space.

Each year, the DRC tracks newsworthy corporate location announcements, which yields a smaller but still high-impact number. In 2024, DFW recorded 97 corporate announcements in the region, up from 67 in 2023 and passing the previous one-year high of 94 in 2021. Fifteen regional cities had multiple announcements, and 31 cities had at least one. The announcements spanned 32 different industries.

Kevin Shatley with Gov. Abbott at the Governor’s Mansion in Austin.

“Achieving this robust, region-wide prosperity and industry diversity is invaluable to our present and future economic prosperity,” said DRC Senior Vice President of Economic Development Mike Rosa. “We are in a great position with many opportunities for 2025. The relationships and work we enjoyed with our community economic development allies and state partners in 2024 positioned DFW—and Texas—at the top.”

Of the announcements tracked by the DRC in 2024, 24 were made by international companies, representing 12 countries. Canada, Mexico, and Germany were leading source countries. Last year, the DRC joined Gov. Greg Abbott on two international missions covering India, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan.

The DRC was invited to the Governor’s Mansion in Austin on Thursday, March 6, to join Gov. Abbott’s celebration of the Governor’s Cup victory. Vice President of Economic Development Kevin Shatley represented the DRC.

At the event, Gov. Abbott shared that Texas’ attitude toward corporate growth is the key to our success.

“We genuinely partner with the businesses that come here and grow here because of a simple mathematical formula and that is when those businesses succeed, Texas succeeds,” said Gov. Abbott. “We added more new jobs last year than any other state, and we have exceeded that for three years in a row. Texas also added more than 314 corporate headquarters since 2015, making our state the headquarters of headquarters. Texas truly is the land of economic freedom.”

To learn about the DRC’s economic development work, visit our website. To learn more about DFW’s economic status, explore our Economy in Brief and DFW Region Facts.

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