Hey folks, let’s talk about growing your business in Texas. If you’re considering relocating your company, the timing couldn’t be better! The ‘Bigger. Better. Texas.’ plan is a game-changer for companies looking to expand, cut costs, and thrive in a business-friendly state. This plan, unveiled by Governor Greg Abbott on March 4, 2025, is a 5-year game plan designed to make Texas the best spot to live, work, and grow. I’ve been helping businesses like yours for over 25 years, and I can tell you firsthand. This Texas Economic Development Plan addresses challenges my clients have faced for years, from workforce development to infrastructure bottlenecks. Let’s explore how this plan can benefit your business.
At Texas EDConnection, our free ‘Message. Match. Move.’ service guides you through every step of the relocation process, making your business transition to Texas seamless. We’ve refined this approach after helping over 50 businesses—from small startups to Fortune 500 corporations—successfully navigate the complexities of relocation to Texas. Our service includes personalized location recommendations, assistance with workforce planning, and support with regulatory compliance, among other benefits.
With over 5,000 businesses moving to Texas last year (according to the Texas Economic Development Corporation’s 2024 report), this plan sparks Texas business growth and EDC Texas. Let’s dive into how it can work for you!
How the 'Bigger. Better. Texas.' Plan Accelerates Texas Economic Development
Having witnessed numerous economic initiatives over my 25-year career, I can tell you this plan stands apart. At the Governor’s unveiling in Austin, I was impressed by the specific implementation timelines—each initiative includes quarterly benchmarks. This level of accountability and transparency ensures that the ‘Bigger. Better. Texas.’ plan is on track to achieve its goals. The plan aims to put Texas on the map as a global leader—and here’s what makes it substantial:
- $250 Million Industry Investment: Targeted funding for tech, energy, and manufacturing sectors with immediate impact. The Advanced Manufacturing Grant Program now accepts applications for Q3 2025 funding cycles.
- Export Edge: Texas has been topping U.S. exports since 2002, and this plan aims to keep that fire burning with a focus on manufacturing and energy (nearly 6% of exports). The Export Enhancement Program will provide matching grants of up to $50,000 for small businesses entering international markets.
- Innovation Push: The Texas Innovation Fund provides $175 million in research grants for startups, focusing on companies that partner with our state universities. Last quarter, 24 startups received funding averaging $225,000 each.
- Better Roads and More: With $12 billion earmarked for transportation, energy, water, and broadband upgrades over the next 5 years, moving business to Texas just got more practical. The I-35 corridor improvements begin this summer, with completion targets for 2027.
Key Trends in State of Texas Economic Development for 2025
Texas is emerging as a national leader in renewable energy. In the past month, three new solar manufacturing facilities opened in Lubbock, strengthening West Texas’ position as a wind and solar hub. The Texas Workforce Commission projects 10,000 new green energy jobs by 2027, offering average salaries of $72,500. Simultaneously, Dallas attracts AI startups thanks to innovation funding and UT Dallas and SMU talent pipelines.
Adriana Cruz, Executive Director at Texas Economic Development & Tourism, calls economic development a “team sport.” That’s where I come in at Texas EDConnection, matching you with the perfect Texas spot based on your industry needs, workforce requirements, and growth projections.
The Numbers Behind Texas Business Growth
Let me share the compelling data from the latest Texas Comptroller’s Economic Outlook report that demonstrates why businesses are flocking to our state:
- People Moving In: Our population has jumped 43% in two decades, adding over 9 million people. That means more customers and workers for your business! Houston alone gained 98,000 new residents in 2024.
- Export Champs: We’ve led the U.S. yearly exports since 2002, outpacing the nation from 2015 to 2021. Last year, Texas exported $375 billion in goods, with technology products growing fastest (15% year-over-year).
- Mix of Industries: No single sector tops 10% of GDP, keeping things steady. This diversification protected us during the 2023 tech slowdown when our GDP grew by 2.8% while California contracted.
Economic Performance Metrics (2024-2025)
| Indicator | 2024 Actual | 2025 Projection | Growth | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GDP | $1.9T | $2.0T | 5.30% | Dallas Fed |
| New Jobs Created | 244,000 | 250,000+ | 2.50% | Dallas Fed |
| Business Relocations | 5,000 | 5,500 | 10% | TX Economic Dev. Corp. |
| Median Home Price | $325,000 | $342,000 | 5.20% | TX Real Estate Center |
A Little Comparison
Unlike California, where tech rules the roost (accounting for 32% of state GDP), Texas’ mix of industries lowers the risk—perfect for folks like you moving to Texas from out of state. Last year, I helped a mid-sized manufacturing firm move from San Jose to San Antonio. Their CFO told me, “Dave, our insurance premiums dropped 22% just from the move, and we found skilled labor at 85% of California costs.” I’ve seen companies thrive here because of this balance, and I’d love to help you join them. Their success story could be yours.
Economic Development in Texas: Opportunities in Austin, Houston, and Beyond
I’ve seen Texas economic development light up places like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio, and this plan makes it even better. Let me share some on-the-ground insights I’ve gathered while helping clients find their perfect location:
- Austin: Austin Tech Hub: Imagine the possibilities with an average 44% cost savings on office space ($38/sq ft vs. $68/sq ft in Boston) and direct access to specialized talent. Case in point: QuantumCore filled 18 specialized positions within six months of relocating from Boston by partnering with UT Austin’s quantum computing program.
This could be your reality in Texas.
- Houston: Port and road upgrades boost energy and manufacturing. The Port of Houston handles 70% of Gulf Coast container traffic, making it a logistics goldmine. I recently worked with an energy equipment manufacturer who reduced shipping costs by 17% after relocating from Denver, thanks to its proximity to suppliers and customers.
- San Antonio: With better transport links, logistics and trade are booming. Plus, the military bases here mean a steady workforce with specialized skills. One client, a cybersecurity firm, hired six former Air Force specialists within its first three months of operation. This is the kind of talent pool you can tap into in Texas.
- Rural Gems: Don’t sleep on more minor spots like Lubbock or Tyler—agriculture and manufacturing are growing, and the plan’s broadband push helps level the playing field for rural businesses. Property costs in these areas average 40% less than in major metros, and several of my clients have cited the quality of life and employee retention as significant benefits.
At Texas EDConnection, we Match you with these spots based on your specific business needs. One manufacturer I worked with needed rail access, reliable water capacity, and a specialized workforce. We found them the perfect spot in Waco that checked all three boxes and saved them $2.1 million in operational costs their first year.
Challenges and Opportunities: What to Watch For in Texas Economic Development
Every business environment presents both opportunities and challenges. Here’s what to anticipate when planning your Texas relocation:
Infrastructure Development Reality: While Texas has committed $5 billion to road improvements, specific projects face scheduling challenges. For example, the I-35 corridor expansion is six months behind its original timeline. To prevent logistical surprises, we help clients factor these realities into their relocation planning.
Workforce shortages are another challenge—while training programs are growing, some industries, like tech, still face gaps. One semiconductor client struggled to fill 15 specialized engineering roles during its first year, eventually implementing a remote work option to access talent from other regions.
Water resources in West Texas remain a concern. I recommend that businesses with high water needs focus on East Texas locations. One manufacturing client saved approximately $120,000 annually in water costs by choosing Tyler over Midland despite the incentives offered by both cities.
Compare this to Florida—their plan leans on tourism, but Texas’ diverse industries give us an edge. During the 2020 pandemic, I watched Florida clients struggle with 60% revenue drops while my Texas manufacturing clients maintained 85% of their pre-pandemic business. I’ve seen this save businesses during downturns, unlike tourism-heavy states.
The good news? Texas EDConnection helps you navigate these challenges. We have contacts to keep you updated on infrastructure timelines and partner with workforce programs to find you talent. Plus, the plan’s focus on innovation means more startups—and competition—but we’ll match you with a spot where you’ll stand out. It’s all about turning challenges into opportunities!
FAQs: Your Questions on the State of Texas Economic Development
Got questions? I’ve got answers based on what businesses ask me most often:
What's the "Bigger. Better. Texas." plan?
The plan is a 5-year economic initiative launched on March 4, 2025, that allocates $15 billion toward four key areas: industry development, export promotion, innovation funding, and infrastructure improvements. The first performance metrics will be published in the June 2025 quarterly report.
How does the state of Texas's economic development create jobs?
It backs Texas CHIPS ($3.5 billion in semiconductor investment) and Space Commission ($1.2 billion for aerospace), aiming for 250,000+ Texas EDC jobs by 2025. The plan includes targeted tax incentives for companies creating jobs with salaries above the county median.
Which cities shine with economic development in Texas?
Austin, Houston, and San Antonio lead with tailored growth plans. Each has distinct advantages: Austin’s tech ecosystem saw 15% growth in 2024, Houston’s energy sector added 12,000 jobs, and San Antonio’s cybersecurity industry grew 22% year-over-year.
What help does Texas EDConnection offer?
Free relocation support—matching, incentives, and logistics. Our average client saves $37,500 through our negotiations, and 92% of businesses we’ve helped remain in operation after five years.
Where's the full plan?
You can grab it from the official Texas Economic Development website, along with application details for specific programs like the Texas Enterprise Fund and Texas Enterprise Zone Program.
Ready to Jump into Texas Business Growth? Let's Go!
The “Bigger. Better. Texas.” plan sets Texas business growth on fire, with economic development in Texas leading the way.
Expand Your Business with Texas Economic Development Incentives Today
How Texas EDConnection Helps with the State of Texas Economic Development
Let’s get you moving with our “Message. Match. Move.” approach—it’s how I’ve helped 50+ businesses succeed:
- Message: Reach out if you’d like to chat at 214-775-0617, and we’ll discuss what you need. No cost, no pressure! I’ll ask detailed questions about your operation, like when I helped a manufacturing firm that needed 50,000 square feet with overhead cranes, a natural gas capacity of 15,000 BTU, and a workforce of 50 skilled welders and fabricators.
- Match: I’ll use my network of 87 economic development professionals across the state to connect you with the right Texas town—maybe Austin for tech or Houston for energy. For that manufacturing firm, we found a spot in Houston with room to grow, proximity to three technical colleges, and a $30,000 incentive package from the local economic development corporation.
- Move: We’ll handle site picks, snag up to $50,000 in incentives (like I did for past clients), and sort the logistics. We’ll connect you with local resources, from utility companies to staffing agencies. That manufacturing client was up and running in 90 days—smooth as a Texas two-step!
Why Pick Texas EDConnection for Economic Development in Texas?
We give you personal help, not generic forms. Last year alone, our negotiated incentive packages saved clients an average of $37,500 in relocation costs. We’re a free service funded by partnerships with local economic development corporations, which pay us a flat referral fee when businesses successfully relocate to their communities—see our privacy policy for details.
Author Bio – A Texas Economic Development Expert
Written by Dave Quinn, CEcD
Howdy! I’m Dave ‘Super’ Quinn, your go-to guy for business relocations. With over 25 years under my belt, I’ve helped 50+ companies thrive in Texas.
- Certified Economic Developer (International Economic Development Council)
- Negotiated over $15M in relocation incentives for 50+ companies
- Member Site Selectors Guild and Texas Economic Development Council
- Based in Arlington, TX | LinkedIn
