Big as Texas Fest
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March 26, 2024
Top New Spring Festivals in Houston
Published March 26, 2024 by Hailea Schultz
As the weather warms and flowers bloom, Houston transforms into a kaleidoscope of color and activity in the spring, boasting an array of exciting festivals that spotlight the city’s diversity. From cultural celebrations to culinary adventures, we’ve curated a list of must-attend festivals that are new to the Houston area.
Foodieland | April 5-7 | NRG Park
Calling all Houston foodies! Embark on a culinary adventure celebrating the diverse flavors and creations of various cultures at Foodieland. This massive three-day festival showcases over 185 food and retail vendors and carnival games.
KPOP Spring Fest | April 7 | Karbach Brewing Co.
Dance the day away listening to your favorite Korean pop hits at KPOP Spring Fest. The event will celebrate the rich tapestry of Korean culture with live music and dance performances, games, raffles and a marketplace featuring over 40 artist and food vendors.
Big as Texas Fest | May 10-12 | Montgomery Fairgrounds
This inaugural music festival boasts a must-see lineup of country music’s biggest stars including Thomas Rhett, Dierks Bentley and Midland. In addition to live music, the three-day outdoor celebration features an array of Texas vendors and artisans alongside immersive art installations and exhibits, onsite hat-making, carnival games, food trucks and a car show.
Bacon Festival | June 1 | Humble
Step into a bacon lover’s paradise at this first-ever extravaganza spotlighting over 100 vendors dedicated to all things bacon! From unique bacon-infused treats such as bacon ranch pickles and bacon cotton candy to bacon-themed activities like mechanical pig rides and a bacon eating contest, this festival has something for every bacon enthusiast.
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Event | August 5, 2025
Hear from leaders and representatives fortifying Houston’s critical infrastructure and learn how government, industry, and community partners are building a stronger, more prepared region.
NEWS | July 30, 2025
Mentorship takes many forms and doesn’t always follow a traditional path. For professionals navigating growth and leadership, the right connections often emerge through formal programs and everyday experiences. Through Women on the Rise, one of the Greater Houston Partnership’s leadership programs, emerging female leaders like Allison Marshall, Managing Principal at Huitt-Zollars, Inc., are finding a space to build meaningful connections, gain perspective, and strengthen their leadership journey.
NEWS | July 30, 2025
Houston startup Solidec secured more than $2 million in pre-seed funding to advance a modular chemical production system designed to help companies produce chemicals like hydrogen peroxide on-site using only air, water, and electricity. The company’s approach aims to reduce emissions tied to traditional chemical manufacturing, which often relies on centralized, energy-intensive facilities and long-distance transportation.
NEWS | July 10, 2025
This November, millions of Texas voters will head to the polls to decide whether to approve or reject 17 proposed constitutional amendments by state lawmakers. It’s an annual process that plays out in the fall during odd-numbered years following a legislative session.
NEWS | July 9, 2025
Houston has made significant strides to improve its resilience as a coastal city over the past two decades. Federal, state and local leaders have prioritized efforts to strengthen flood mitigation, enhance power reliability and secure the region’s water supply. Each weather event has brought important lessons, prompting investments and solutions to protect homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.
NEWS | July 8, 2025
Houston-area organizations are actively coordinating donation drives and volunteer efforts to support those affected by the devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country. The Greater Houston Partnership has collected links to trusted relief funds, local drives, and volunteer opportunities to help communities in need. The Partnership will continue to update as more resources become available.
NEWS | July 8, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 13 new member companies in the month of June. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | June 25, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership and regional partners showcased Houston’s thriving life sciences and biotechnology ecosystem at the 2025 BIO International Convention in Boston. As the premier annual biotechnology conference in the United States, BIO 2025 drew nearly 20,000 global attendees, offering a powerful platform to highlight the region’s momentum, innovation, and growing opportunities in the sector.
NEWS | June 23, 2025
Houston is one of the nation’s biggest hubs for young professionals, thanks to strong job growth and an affordable cost of living. Between 2020 and 2024, the region added an estimated 240,000 new jobs, part of a broader economic boom across Texas. Now, a new law aims to build on that momentum by expanding access to workforce training and education programs.
NEWS | June 23, 2025
This week, the Partnership highlighted the Texas Legislature’s work to deliver a new pathway for college, career, and military readiness in public schools. House Bill 120 expands programs that enable high school students to focus on career-oriented education.
NEWS | June 23, 2025
Five years ago, the Partnership released a report highlighting the need to meet demand for middle-skill jobs across the greater Houston area. Since then, Houston’s labor market has continued to heat up, making it one of the top destinations for younger working Texans. In fact, the Kinder Institute has highlighted how the talent pool is continuing to get younger as lawmakers emphasize the importance of more career programs in high schools.
NEWS | June 2, 2025
Greater Houston Partnership Statement on Houston ISD “The improvements in student achievement in the first two years of reforms in Houston ISD are nothing short of extraordinary, and we celebrate the students for their hard work to achieve these outcomes.
NEWS | June 2, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership’s Houston Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (HYPE) program empowers early- to mid-career professionals to grow as leaders, build meaningful connections, and deepen their engagement in Houston’s business and civic landscape. Through curated events and purposeful programming, HYPE cultivates a pipeline of rising talent ready to take on leadership roles in their companies and communities. The Partnership is committed to fostering the next generation of leaders who will help shape Houston’s future, and HYPE is one way we’re investing in that vision.
NEWS | May 23, 2025
HOUSTON (May 23, 2025)—Leaders in the Texas House and Senate reached an agreement on House Bill 2 to expand funding for Texas public schools on Thursday. Among many advances, this legislation increases public education funding by $8.5 billion, provides $4.2 billion for teacher and staff pay increases, and allocates nearly $2 billion towards early childhood education.
NEWS | May 12, 2025
Board service isn’t just about governance – it’s a leadership masterclass. If you’re looking to grow your impact and elevate your strategic thinking, joining a board is one of the most powerful development opportunities available.
NEWS | May 8, 2025
Mayor John Whitmire released the City of Houston’s proposed $7 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 operating budget, which includes a balanced General Fund. For Houston’s business community, sound fiscal management at City Hall is more than just good governance – it’s essential to maintaining the services and infrastructure that enable our region to thrive. Perhaps most significantly, this plan reduces General Fund spending – the city’s primary tax-supported budget – by 2.4%, or $74.5 million.
NEWS | May 5, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 18 new member companies in the month of April. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | May 1, 2025
Houston is, and always has been, a city that builds. From the oil rigs that powered the 20th century to the rockets that carried us to the moon, this region has built its reputation on the ability to engineer, innovate and scale at every level of industry.
NEWS | May 1, 2025
HOUSTON (May 1, 2025)—As evolving trade policies and geopolitical tensions create economic uncertainty in 2025, Houston enters the year with a strong foundation. According to the Greater Houston Partnership’s newly released 2025 Global Houston report, the region led the U.S. in exports last year – shipping $180.9 billion in goods, more than any other metro area.
NEWS | April 30, 2025
As the global economy adapts to evolving trade policies and geopolitical tensions, Houston’s international trade performance offers insight into the strength and adaptability of the region’s economy. The Greater Houston Partnership’s 2025 Global Houston report reveals how deep global relationships and sector strengths position the region to weather potential disruptions better than most.
NEWS | April 28, 2025
Fifth Third Bank Chief Economist Jeff Korzenik is forecasting the Houston region and the U.S. will grow this year and avoid a recession. Despite growing concerns around inflation, labor shortages, and interest rate uncertainty, Houston stands out as a region poised to weather potential economic headwinds.
NEWS | April 28, 2025
Like every city, Houston experiences setbacks. The difference is Houston doesn’t dwell on them. It adapts, rebuilds and always comes back stronger. That’s exactly what the region is doing with biotech, an emerging sector where Houston is determined to lead.
NEWS | April 3, 2025
Out of the 13 Houston chefs and restaurants initially named semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, four have advanced to the final round. The James Beard Awards honor outstanding talent in the culinary and hospitality industries across the country. This year’s Houston finalists span a range of categories, from Best Chef to Outstanding Wine Program, showcasing the city’s vibrant and diverse dining scene.
NEWS | March 31, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership recently convened members from all seven of its public policy advisory committees for a joint kickoff meeting that set the stage for our 2025 advocacy efforts. The meeting offered an in-depth look at the current policy landscapes in Washington, D.C. and Austin, and gave members a preview of the issues our committees will be tackling throughout the year.
NEWS | March 27, 2025
Daikin Comfort Technologies North America is making history in Houston—not just on the field, but across the region. As the new namesake of the Astros’ ballpark, Daikin’s investment in the Houston region has been a game-changer for the regional economy and community.
NEWS | March 21, 2025
NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission has finally concluded after an unexpected nine-month journey to the International Space Station (ISS). The astronauts aboard; Butch Wilmore, Suni Williams and Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully touched down in Florida on Tuesday evening.
NEWS | March 21, 2025
In this special live recording of Rise to the Top, we celebrate International Women's Day with Anita Sehgal, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Houston Astros. With over 30 years of experience in strategic marketing, Anita has shaped major brands like Academy Sports and Outdoors and Best Buy before joining the Astros in 2013.
NEWS | March 19, 2025
In 2023, Texas had one of the best legislative sessions in modern history for water policy. The 89th Texas Legislature wants to take that to another level by increasing funding and implementing policy reforms to reshape how the state addresses water resources.
NEWS | March 19, 2025
Texas is a global powerhouse, and Houston is the welcoming committee for many companies looking to settle in the Lone Star State. The strength of our workforce is one key issue that continues to drive economic growth.
NEWS | March 18, 2025
Texas continues to position itself as a national leader in business innovation and technology. However, the Lone Star State is risking that position if lawmakers allow a Research & Development tax incentive to expire next year.
NEWS | March 14, 2025
Texas lawmakers are moving forward with securing the state's long-term water future with sweeping new legislation aimed at increasing water availability and funding critical infrastructure improvements. Senate Bill 7 (SB 7) lays out a comprehensive framework to address these challenges, reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable water solutions.
NEWS | March 10, 2025
Texas has secured its 13th consecutive Governor's Cup for 2024, as awarded by Site Selection Magazine. This accolade recognizes the state with the highest number of qualified capital investment projects, underscoring Texas's sustained appeal to businesses and investors alike. Houston remains a key player in this success story, ranking third among U.S. metropolitan areas for attracting new business ventures.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
This week, the House Public Education Committee held two hearings on its omnibus school finance proposal, House Bill 2 (HB 2). Chairman Brad Buckley has indicated the committee plans to vote on HB 2 at its March 18 hearing.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership’s 2025 D.C. Fly-In brought together an 80-member delegation of Houston’s business and civic leaders to advocate for policies that will strengthen our region and keep Houston competitive on the national stage. Over the course of three days in Washington, the delegation met with key lawmakers, federal agencies, and industry leaders, driving home the importance of policies that support energy, infrastructure, workforce development, and economic growth.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
While the House Public Education Committee discusses its comprehensive school finance reform, the Senate addresses teacher pay incentives as a stand-alone measure. Senate Bill 26 (SB 26) was swiftly voted out of the Senate on February 26 and now awaits consideration by the House.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
Statement Attributable to Steve Kean, President and CEO, Greater Houston Partnership The Greater Houston Partnership mourns the loss of Congressman Sylvester Turner. For many years, we knew him as Representative Turner and then, Mr. Mayor. Regardless of his title, everyone knew he represented Houston with unrivaled passion and energy. He tirelessly promoted Houston across the U.S. and around the world, and the Partnership was pleased to join him in trade missions across multiple continents to create opportunity for Houston. As this relentless advocate for Houston finally finds rest, we express our deepest condolences to his daughter, Ashley, and her family, along with those who knew and loved him.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 12 new member companies in the month of February. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | March 4, 2025
Statement Attributable to Steve Kean, President and CEO, Greater Houston Partnership "Mexico and Canada are among Houston’s top trading partners, and our region’s economy is inextricably tied to the global economy. The Greater Houston Partnership has long supported free trade as a driver of economic growth and opportunity. While the full impact of these tariffs remains uncertain, we remain hopeful for a swift, favorable resolution that supports Houston businesses and strengthens our region’s economic future."
NEWS | March 4, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership’s Executive Women’s Partnership (EWP) is well-known for being among the premier networking groups for leading female executives. EWP provides executive women the opportunity to address business issues and interests, learn from each other, and exchange ideas and information on important issues facing female leaders and the business community at large. Get to know the new chair of EWP, Qiara Suggs, Chief Human Capital Officer, TDECU.
NEWS | March 3, 2025
The emergence of Battery and Energy Storage Systems (BESS) has revolutionized the energy landscape, enabling greater flexibility and efficiency in power generation and consumption. As renewable energy sources become more prevalent, BESS provides a complementary yet critical solution for storing excess energy during peak production and releasing it when demand is high or generation is low. These systems enhance grid stability through a diversification of power sources.
NEWS | February 28, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership celebrates our members making important announcements and sharing news about their operations and impact in our region. Learn more about some of those announcements over the last months below.
NEWS | February 24, 2025
Houston has scored a major win in the global manufacturing and technology race. Apple announced plans to open an advanced manufacturing facility in the Houston region. Part of a $500 billion national investment, the new 250,000-square-foot facility will bring AI-driven manufacturing to Houston, reshoring critical operations from overseas.
NEWS | February 24, 2025
Houston has scored a major win in the global manufacturing and technology race. Apple announced plans to open an advanced manufacturing facility in the Houston region. Part of a $500 billion national investment, the new 250,000-square-foot facility will bring AI-driven manufacturing to Houston, reshoring critical operations from overseas.
NEWS | February 21, 2025
Texas Children’s Hospital and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have announced a new joint venture aimed at advancing pediatric cancer treatment.
NEWS | February 20, 2025
Texas Sen. Charles Perry has a lot to say about water. As the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Chairman, he leads the upper chambers' efforts to prioritize water resources. He’s also the author of the much-anticipated Senate Bill 7 and the unnamed Senate Joint Resolution that will propose a constitutional amendment for $1 billion in dedicated funding each year for the Texas Water Fund.
NEWS | February 13, 2025
Speaker Dustin Burrows released committee assignments for House Members on Thursday, taking the next step in the legislative session. Committees will likely get organized quickly, especially those expected to tackle the governor’s seven emergency items.
NEWS | February 11, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 34 new member companies in the month of January. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | February 11, 2025
Over the past 15 years, Houston has secured $104.8 million in early-stage R&D funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E), according to the agency. The strategic funding is critical in advancing breakthrough technologies that aim to revolutionize the energy sector.
NEWS | February 6, 2025
[PRESS RELEASE Provided by Radix] HOUSTON, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Radix, a global technology solutions company at the forefront of industrial digital transformation, and Celanese, a global chemical and specialty material company, are proud to collaborate with Cognite, the global leader in data and AI for industry, on the development of JO.AI, a groundbreaking generative AI-powered solution designed to revolutionize operations in asset-intensive industries.
NEWS | February 6, 2025
[PRESS RELEASE Provided by United Imaging] January 9, 2025 -- United Imaging, a global leader in advanced medical imaging and radiotherapy equipment, has signed on for additional production and office space in greater Houston. The new space in Pearland, Texas will more than triple the total size of the company's current manufacturing square footage that's now at their North American headquarters on Kirby Drive. It was only just over four years ago that the company opened that current production facility.
NEWS | February 3, 2025
Governor Greg Abbott named two of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Executive Priorities as emergency items for the Texas Legislature during his State of the State address Sunday. The governor said he wants lawmakers to immediately begin working on solutions to strengthen the workforce, improve the resilience of vital infrastructure, and make a Texas-sized investment in water security.
NEWS | February 3, 2025
Members of the Greater Houston Partnership voted to elect new members of the organization’s board of directors at its Annual Meeting held on January 31. The Partnership's 147-member board guides the work of the organization and is comprised of leaders from across greater Houston's business community.
NEWS | January 31, 2025
HOUSTON (January 31, 2025) – The Greater Houston Partnership announced the launch of its new five-year strategic framework, Houston Next: Advancing Opportunity, during its Annual Meeting. This comprehensive plan builds upon the organization’s work to position Houston as a world-class hub for economic growth, innovation, and quality of life.
NEWS | January 30, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership presented the 2025 Robert C. McNair Civic Leadership Award to the Love family at the organization’s Annual Meeting. The prestigious award honors individuals and families whose contributions have profoundly shaped the greater Houston community.
NEWS | January 24, 2025
Port Houston is bolstering its sustainability efforts with a $25 million grant from the Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration to develop the Bayport Hydrogen Refueling Station (Bayport HRS) in Bayport, Texas.
NEWS | January 10, 2025
NEWS | January 9, 2025
Following the success of the Texas Water Fund initiative in the 88th Texas Legislative Session, voters overwhelmingly supported the constitutional amendment to fund $1 billion in water infrastructure solutions.
NEWS | December 20, 2024
What does it take to showcase Houston’s extraordinary contributions to Texas? For the Greater Houston Partnership, the answer was Houston Day. The transformative event gave state legislators a firsthand look at the industries and innovations driving one of the most dynamic regions in the country.
NEWS | December 19, 2024
Houston’s Buffalo Bayou Park is undergoing a transformative expansion. In 2019, the Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BPP) unveiled the Buffalo Bayou East 10-Year Master Plan, a project to extend the park into the East End and Fifth Ward neighborhoods. Supported by a $310 million investment, including $100 million from the Kinder Foundation, the plan aims to create a vibrant community hub and cultural destination through major infrastructure improvements and the addition of new parks, green spaces and amenities.
NEWS | December 19, 2024
While the original focus of the Houston Back on Track initiative was to help put people back to work following pandemic-era job displacement, it has evolved into a collective effort to serve and support low-wage workers in Houston looking for something better.
NEWS | December 19, 2024
Houston's life sciences ecosystem is on the rise, and the Bayou City Bio Pulse is at the heart of this transformation. Launched in fall 2023 by the Greater Houston Partnership’s Life Science Committee, this bi-monthly event series is reshaping how the region's life sciences community connects, innovates and thrives.
NEWS | December 17, 2024
In April 2024, the Partnership hosted seven leading site consultants for an exclusive two-and-a-half-day immersion tour into Houston’s dynamic business ecosystem. The visit aimed to position Houston as a prime choice for business relocation and expansion by offering an insider’s look at the region’s assets.
NEWS | December 17, 2024
[PRESS RELEASE Provided by SanJac] PASADENA, Texas – The San Jacinto College Center for Biotechnology has partnered with CellReady, a privately held cell therapy contract development and manufacturing organization, to launch an innovative, fast-track training curriculum for new hires in biomanufacturing. This four-week program is designed to significantly shorten onboarding time for manufacturing associates, providing them with concentrated and rigorous hands-on training to jumpstart their readiness to work in advanced cell therapy manufacturing.
NEWS | December 16, 2024
UpSkill Houston's mission is to cultivate one of the finest skilled workforces globally and ensure opportunities for all residents in the Houston region. Over the past decade, UpSkill Houston has established a renowned employer-led collective focused on developing skilled talent initiatives, setting a benchmark admired by major metros.
NEWS | December 16, 2024
The Burning Glass Institute (BGI), with financial support from Walmart.org, selected the Greater Houston Partnership’s UpSkill Houston initiative as its partner to develop the Jobs That Mobilize (JTM) initiative.
NEWS | December 16, 2024
HOUSTON (Dec. 16, 2024) — The Greater Houston Partnership has announced Rafael “Rafa” Alvarez as the organization’s new Senior Vice President of Regional Workforce Development, leading the nationally acclaimed UpSkill Houston initiative. Alvarez, a Forbes-recognized social entrepreneur and founder of Genesys Works, brings a proven track record in workforce development and a deep commitment to creating opportunities that bridge skills training and industry.
NEWS | December 6, 2024
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 12 new member companies in the month of November. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | December 6, 2024
[PRESS RELEASE] Paris (France), Houston (USA), San Francisco (USA) — November 25, 2024 — Lauxera Capital Partners announces the acquisition of Galen Data, a leading provider of secure, cloud-based connectivity solutions for medical devices. This transaction follows Lauxera’s 2022 acquisition of Matrix Requirements, a leading ALM and eQMS software solution for medical device R&D and Quality teams.
NEWS | December 6, 2024
[PRESS RELEASE] Construction projects are won through relationships, 65% of business developers' time is spent searching for leads. Mercator.ai brings its visionary AI business development platform to Houston, flipping that equation for Texas's largest construction market.
NEWS | December 5, 2024
The holiday season is here, which means it's time to kick off your annual shopping spree! Whether you're shopping for lifelong locals or newcomers soaking up Houston's culture, this gift guide is packed with ideas that celebrate the Bayou City's rich traditions, flavors and style.
NEWS | November 27, 2024
Giving Tuesday is on December 3, offering Houstonians an opportunity to give back to the community. To help you get involved, we've rounded up a few organizations across the Houston area that are making a positive impact in the region.
NEWS | November 25, 2024
Plug and Play, an acclaimed startup incubator and accelerator based in Silicon Valley, Calif., has announced plans for a new location in Sugar Land, focusing on solutions for the future of smart cities.
NEWS | November 25, 2024
Amazon’s leadership in supplier diversity has positioned the corporation for success while driving inclusive economic growth. Kennedy Oates, Partnership Board Member and Vice President of Global Procurement at Amazon, shared insights and best practices at the Greater Houston Partnership’s One Houston Together Fall Chief Procurement Officers (CPO) Convening.
NEWS | November 20, 2024
William P. Hobby Airport has officially broken ground on its $470 million expansion project aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. The project will expand and modernize the airport’s West Concourse, originally built by Southwest Airlines in 2015. Planned upgrades include seven new gates, an advanced baggage-handling system, additional baggage claim carousels, and an overhead canopy along the departure curb to protect passengers from inclement weather while connecting the terminal to the parking garage.
NEWS | November 18, 2024
A groundbreaking ceremony for the Texas A&M University Space Institute was celebrated on Nov. 15, marked by the planting of the institute’s flag by Dr. Nancy Currie-Gregg, director of the institute, professor of engineering practice at Texas A&M and a former NASA astronaut.
Event | August 5, 2025
Hear from leaders and representatives fortifying Houston’s critical infrastructure and learn how government, industry, and community partners are building a stronger, more prepared region.
NEWS | July 30, 2025
Mentorship takes many forms and doesn’t always follow a traditional path. For professionals navigating growth and leadership, the right connections often emerge through formal programs and everyday experiences. Through Women on the Rise, one of the Greater Houston Partnership’s leadership programs, emerging female leaders like Allison Marshall, Managing Principal at Huitt-Zollars, Inc., are finding a space to build meaningful connections, gain perspective, and strengthen their leadership journey.
NEWS | July 30, 2025
Houston startup Solidec secured more than $2 million in pre-seed funding to advance a modular chemical production system designed to help companies produce chemicals like hydrogen peroxide on-site using only air, water, and electricity. The company’s approach aims to reduce emissions tied to traditional chemical manufacturing, which often relies on centralized, energy-intensive facilities and long-distance transportation.
NEWS | July 10, 2025
This November, millions of Texas voters will head to the polls to decide whether to approve or reject 17 proposed constitutional amendments by state lawmakers. It’s an annual process that plays out in the fall during odd-numbered years following a legislative session.
NEWS | July 9, 2025
Houston has made significant strides to improve its resilience as a coastal city over the past two decades. Federal, state and local leaders have prioritized efforts to strengthen flood mitigation, enhance power reliability and secure the region’s water supply. Each weather event has brought important lessons, prompting investments and solutions to protect homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.
NEWS | July 8, 2025
Houston-area organizations are actively coordinating donation drives and volunteer efforts to support those affected by the devastating floods in the Texas Hill Country. The Greater Houston Partnership has collected links to trusted relief funds, local drives, and volunteer opportunities to help communities in need. The Partnership will continue to update as more resources become available.
NEWS | July 8, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 13 new member companies in the month of June. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | June 25, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership and regional partners showcased Houston’s thriving life sciences and biotechnology ecosystem at the 2025 BIO International Convention in Boston. As the premier annual biotechnology conference in the United States, BIO 2025 drew nearly 20,000 global attendees, offering a powerful platform to highlight the region’s momentum, innovation, and growing opportunities in the sector.
NEWS | June 23, 2025
Houston is one of the nation’s biggest hubs for young professionals, thanks to strong job growth and an affordable cost of living. Between 2020 and 2024, the region added an estimated 240,000 new jobs, part of a broader economic boom across Texas. Now, a new law aims to build on that momentum by expanding access to workforce training and education programs.
NEWS | June 23, 2025
This week, the Partnership highlighted the Texas Legislature’s work to deliver a new pathway for college, career, and military readiness in public schools. House Bill 120 expands programs that enable high school students to focus on career-oriented education.
NEWS | June 23, 2025
Five years ago, the Partnership released a report highlighting the need to meet demand for middle-skill jobs across the greater Houston area. Since then, Houston’s labor market has continued to heat up, making it one of the top destinations for younger working Texans. In fact, the Kinder Institute has highlighted how the talent pool is continuing to get younger as lawmakers emphasize the importance of more career programs in high schools.
NEWS | June 2, 2025
Greater Houston Partnership Statement on Houston ISD “The improvements in student achievement in the first two years of reforms in Houston ISD are nothing short of extraordinary, and we celebrate the students for their hard work to achieve these outcomes.
NEWS | June 2, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership’s Houston Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (HYPE) program empowers early- to mid-career professionals to grow as leaders, build meaningful connections, and deepen their engagement in Houston’s business and civic landscape. Through curated events and purposeful programming, HYPE cultivates a pipeline of rising talent ready to take on leadership roles in their companies and communities. The Partnership is committed to fostering the next generation of leaders who will help shape Houston’s future, and HYPE is one way we’re investing in that vision.
NEWS | May 23, 2025
HOUSTON (May 23, 2025)—Leaders in the Texas House and Senate reached an agreement on House Bill 2 to expand funding for Texas public schools on Thursday. Among many advances, this legislation increases public education funding by $8.5 billion, provides $4.2 billion for teacher and staff pay increases, and allocates nearly $2 billion towards early childhood education.
NEWS | May 12, 2025
Board service isn’t just about governance – it’s a leadership masterclass. If you’re looking to grow your impact and elevate your strategic thinking, joining a board is one of the most powerful development opportunities available.
NEWS | May 8, 2025
Mayor John Whitmire released the City of Houston’s proposed $7 billion Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 operating budget, which includes a balanced General Fund. For Houston’s business community, sound fiscal management at City Hall is more than just good governance – it’s essential to maintaining the services and infrastructure that enable our region to thrive. Perhaps most significantly, this plan reduces General Fund spending – the city’s primary tax-supported budget – by 2.4%, or $74.5 million.
NEWS | May 5, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 18 new member companies in the month of April. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | May 1, 2025
Houston is, and always has been, a city that builds. From the oil rigs that powered the 20th century to the rockets that carried us to the moon, this region has built its reputation on the ability to engineer, innovate and scale at every level of industry.
NEWS | May 1, 2025
HOUSTON (May 1, 2025)—As evolving trade policies and geopolitical tensions create economic uncertainty in 2025, Houston enters the year with a strong foundation. According to the Greater Houston Partnership’s newly released 2025 Global Houston report, the region led the U.S. in exports last year – shipping $180.9 billion in goods, more than any other metro area.
NEWS | April 30, 2025
As the global economy adapts to evolving trade policies and geopolitical tensions, Houston’s international trade performance offers insight into the strength and adaptability of the region’s economy. The Greater Houston Partnership’s 2025 Global Houston report reveals how deep global relationships and sector strengths position the region to weather potential disruptions better than most.
NEWS | April 28, 2025
Fifth Third Bank Chief Economist Jeff Korzenik is forecasting the Houston region and the U.S. will grow this year and avoid a recession. Despite growing concerns around inflation, labor shortages, and interest rate uncertainty, Houston stands out as a region poised to weather potential economic headwinds.
NEWS | April 28, 2025
Like every city, Houston experiences setbacks. The difference is Houston doesn’t dwell on them. It adapts, rebuilds and always comes back stronger. That’s exactly what the region is doing with biotech, an emerging sector where Houston is determined to lead.
NEWS | April 3, 2025
Out of the 13 Houston chefs and restaurants initially named semifinalists for the 2025 James Beard Awards, four have advanced to the final round. The James Beard Awards honor outstanding talent in the culinary and hospitality industries across the country. This year’s Houston finalists span a range of categories, from Best Chef to Outstanding Wine Program, showcasing the city’s vibrant and diverse dining scene.
NEWS | March 31, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership recently convened members from all seven of its public policy advisory committees for a joint kickoff meeting that set the stage for our 2025 advocacy efforts. The meeting offered an in-depth look at the current policy landscapes in Washington, D.C. and Austin, and gave members a preview of the issues our committees will be tackling throughout the year.
NEWS | March 27, 2025
Daikin Comfort Technologies North America is making history in Houston—not just on the field, but across the region. As the new namesake of the Astros’ ballpark, Daikin’s investment in the Houston region has been a game-changer for the regional economy and community.
NEWS | March 21, 2025
NASA’s SpaceX Crew-9 mission has finally concluded after an unexpected nine-month journey to the International Space Station (ISS). The astronauts aboard; Butch Wilmore, Suni Williams and Nick Hague and Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov, successfully touched down in Florida on Tuesday evening.
NEWS | March 21, 2025
In this special live recording of Rise to the Top, we celebrate International Women's Day with Anita Sehgal, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Houston Astros. With over 30 years of experience in strategic marketing, Anita has shaped major brands like Academy Sports and Outdoors and Best Buy before joining the Astros in 2013.
NEWS | March 19, 2025
In 2023, Texas had one of the best legislative sessions in modern history for water policy. The 89th Texas Legislature wants to take that to another level by increasing funding and implementing policy reforms to reshape how the state addresses water resources.
NEWS | March 19, 2025
Texas is a global powerhouse, and Houston is the welcoming committee for many companies looking to settle in the Lone Star State. The strength of our workforce is one key issue that continues to drive economic growth.
NEWS | March 18, 2025
Texas continues to position itself as a national leader in business innovation and technology. However, the Lone Star State is risking that position if lawmakers allow a Research & Development tax incentive to expire next year.
NEWS | March 14, 2025
Texas lawmakers are moving forward with securing the state's long-term water future with sweeping new legislation aimed at increasing water availability and funding critical infrastructure improvements. Senate Bill 7 (SB 7) lays out a comprehensive framework to address these challenges, reinforcing the state’s commitment to sustainable water solutions.
NEWS | March 10, 2025
Texas has secured its 13th consecutive Governor's Cup for 2024, as awarded by Site Selection Magazine. This accolade recognizes the state with the highest number of qualified capital investment projects, underscoring Texas's sustained appeal to businesses and investors alike. Houston remains a key player in this success story, ranking third among U.S. metropolitan areas for attracting new business ventures.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
This week, the House Public Education Committee held two hearings on its omnibus school finance proposal, House Bill 2 (HB 2). Chairman Brad Buckley has indicated the committee plans to vote on HB 2 at its March 18 hearing.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership’s 2025 D.C. Fly-In brought together an 80-member delegation of Houston’s business and civic leaders to advocate for policies that will strengthen our region and keep Houston competitive on the national stage. Over the course of three days in Washington, the delegation met with key lawmakers, federal agencies, and industry leaders, driving home the importance of policies that support energy, infrastructure, workforce development, and economic growth.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
While the House Public Education Committee discusses its comprehensive school finance reform, the Senate addresses teacher pay incentives as a stand-alone measure. Senate Bill 26 (SB 26) was swiftly voted out of the Senate on February 26 and now awaits consideration by the House.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
Statement Attributable to Steve Kean, President and CEO, Greater Houston Partnership The Greater Houston Partnership mourns the loss of Congressman Sylvester Turner. For many years, we knew him as Representative Turner and then, Mr. Mayor. Regardless of his title, everyone knew he represented Houston with unrivaled passion and energy. He tirelessly promoted Houston across the U.S. and around the world, and the Partnership was pleased to join him in trade missions across multiple continents to create opportunity for Houston. As this relentless advocate for Houston finally finds rest, we express our deepest condolences to his daughter, Ashley, and her family, along with those who knew and loved him.
NEWS | March 5, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 12 new member companies in the month of February. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | March 4, 2025
Statement Attributable to Steve Kean, President and CEO, Greater Houston Partnership "Mexico and Canada are among Houston’s top trading partners, and our region’s economy is inextricably tied to the global economy. The Greater Houston Partnership has long supported free trade as a driver of economic growth and opportunity. While the full impact of these tariffs remains uncertain, we remain hopeful for a swift, favorable resolution that supports Houston businesses and strengthens our region’s economic future."
NEWS | March 4, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership’s Executive Women’s Partnership (EWP) is well-known for being among the premier networking groups for leading female executives. EWP provides executive women the opportunity to address business issues and interests, learn from each other, and exchange ideas and information on important issues facing female leaders and the business community at large. Get to know the new chair of EWP, Qiara Suggs, Chief Human Capital Officer, TDECU.
NEWS | March 3, 2025
The emergence of Battery and Energy Storage Systems (BESS) has revolutionized the energy landscape, enabling greater flexibility and efficiency in power generation and consumption. As renewable energy sources become more prevalent, BESS provides a complementary yet critical solution for storing excess energy during peak production and releasing it when demand is high or generation is low. These systems enhance grid stability through a diversification of power sources.
NEWS | February 28, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership celebrates our members making important announcements and sharing news about their operations and impact in our region. Learn more about some of those announcements over the last months below.
NEWS | February 24, 2025
Houston has scored a major win in the global manufacturing and technology race. Apple announced plans to open an advanced manufacturing facility in the Houston region. Part of a $500 billion national investment, the new 250,000-square-foot facility will bring AI-driven manufacturing to Houston, reshoring critical operations from overseas.
NEWS | February 24, 2025
Houston has scored a major win in the global manufacturing and technology race. Apple announced plans to open an advanced manufacturing facility in the Houston region. Part of a $500 billion national investment, the new 250,000-square-foot facility will bring AI-driven manufacturing to Houston, reshoring critical operations from overseas.
NEWS | February 21, 2025
Texas Children’s Hospital and the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have announced a new joint venture aimed at advancing pediatric cancer treatment.
NEWS | February 20, 2025
Texas Sen. Charles Perry has a lot to say about water. As the Senate Committee on Water, Agriculture, and Rural Affairs Chairman, he leads the upper chambers' efforts to prioritize water resources. He’s also the author of the much-anticipated Senate Bill 7 and the unnamed Senate Joint Resolution that will propose a constitutional amendment for $1 billion in dedicated funding each year for the Texas Water Fund.
NEWS | February 13, 2025
Speaker Dustin Burrows released committee assignments for House Members on Thursday, taking the next step in the legislative session. Committees will likely get organized quickly, especially those expected to tackle the governor’s seven emergency items.
NEWS | February 11, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 34 new member companies in the month of January. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | February 11, 2025
Over the past 15 years, Houston has secured $104.8 million in early-stage R&D funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E), according to the agency. The strategic funding is critical in advancing breakthrough technologies that aim to revolutionize the energy sector.
NEWS | February 6, 2025
[PRESS RELEASE Provided by Radix] HOUSTON, Jan. 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Radix, a global technology solutions company at the forefront of industrial digital transformation, and Celanese, a global chemical and specialty material company, are proud to collaborate with Cognite, the global leader in data and AI for industry, on the development of JO.AI, a groundbreaking generative AI-powered solution designed to revolutionize operations in asset-intensive industries.
NEWS | February 6, 2025
[PRESS RELEASE Provided by United Imaging] January 9, 2025 -- United Imaging, a global leader in advanced medical imaging and radiotherapy equipment, has signed on for additional production and office space in greater Houston. The new space in Pearland, Texas will more than triple the total size of the company's current manufacturing square footage that's now at their North American headquarters on Kirby Drive. It was only just over four years ago that the company opened that current production facility.
NEWS | February 3, 2025
Governor Greg Abbott named two of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Executive Priorities as emergency items for the Texas Legislature during his State of the State address Sunday. The governor said he wants lawmakers to immediately begin working on solutions to strengthen the workforce, improve the resilience of vital infrastructure, and make a Texas-sized investment in water security.
NEWS | February 3, 2025
Members of the Greater Houston Partnership voted to elect new members of the organization’s board of directors at its Annual Meeting held on January 31. The Partnership's 147-member board guides the work of the organization and is comprised of leaders from across greater Houston's business community.
NEWS | January 31, 2025
HOUSTON (January 31, 2025) – The Greater Houston Partnership announced the launch of its new five-year strategic framework, Houston Next: Advancing Opportunity, during its Annual Meeting. This comprehensive plan builds upon the organization’s work to position Houston as a world-class hub for economic growth, innovation, and quality of life.
NEWS | January 30, 2025
The Greater Houston Partnership presented the 2025 Robert C. McNair Civic Leadership Award to the Love family at the organization’s Annual Meeting. The prestigious award honors individuals and families whose contributions have profoundly shaped the greater Houston community.
NEWS | January 24, 2025
Port Houston is bolstering its sustainability efforts with a $25 million grant from the Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration to develop the Bayport Hydrogen Refueling Station (Bayport HRS) in Bayport, Texas.
NEWS | January 10, 2025
NEWS | January 9, 2025
Following the success of the Texas Water Fund initiative in the 88th Texas Legislative Session, voters overwhelmingly supported the constitutional amendment to fund $1 billion in water infrastructure solutions.
NEWS | December 20, 2024
What does it take to showcase Houston’s extraordinary contributions to Texas? For the Greater Houston Partnership, the answer was Houston Day. The transformative event gave state legislators a firsthand look at the industries and innovations driving one of the most dynamic regions in the country.
NEWS | December 19, 2024
Houston’s Buffalo Bayou Park is undergoing a transformative expansion. In 2019, the Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BPP) unveiled the Buffalo Bayou East 10-Year Master Plan, a project to extend the park into the East End and Fifth Ward neighborhoods. Supported by a $310 million investment, including $100 million from the Kinder Foundation, the plan aims to create a vibrant community hub and cultural destination through major infrastructure improvements and the addition of new parks, green spaces and amenities.
NEWS | December 19, 2024
While the original focus of the Houston Back on Track initiative was to help put people back to work following pandemic-era job displacement, it has evolved into a collective effort to serve and support low-wage workers in Houston looking for something better.
NEWS | December 19, 2024
Houston's life sciences ecosystem is on the rise, and the Bayou City Bio Pulse is at the heart of this transformation. Launched in fall 2023 by the Greater Houston Partnership’s Life Science Committee, this bi-monthly event series is reshaping how the region's life sciences community connects, innovates and thrives.
NEWS | December 17, 2024
In April 2024, the Partnership hosted seven leading site consultants for an exclusive two-and-a-half-day immersion tour into Houston’s dynamic business ecosystem. The visit aimed to position Houston as a prime choice for business relocation and expansion by offering an insider’s look at the region’s assets.
NEWS | December 17, 2024
[PRESS RELEASE Provided by SanJac] PASADENA, Texas – The San Jacinto College Center for Biotechnology has partnered with CellReady, a privately held cell therapy contract development and manufacturing organization, to launch an innovative, fast-track training curriculum for new hires in biomanufacturing. This four-week program is designed to significantly shorten onboarding time for manufacturing associates, providing them with concentrated and rigorous hands-on training to jumpstart their readiness to work in advanced cell therapy manufacturing.
NEWS | December 16, 2024
UpSkill Houston's mission is to cultivate one of the finest skilled workforces globally and ensure opportunities for all residents in the Houston region. Over the past decade, UpSkill Houston has established a renowned employer-led collective focused on developing skilled talent initiatives, setting a benchmark admired by major metros.
NEWS | December 16, 2024
The Burning Glass Institute (BGI), with financial support from Walmart.org, selected the Greater Houston Partnership’s UpSkill Houston initiative as its partner to develop the Jobs That Mobilize (JTM) initiative.
NEWS | December 16, 2024
HOUSTON (Dec. 16, 2024) — The Greater Houston Partnership has announced Rafael “Rafa” Alvarez as the organization’s new Senior Vice President of Regional Workforce Development, leading the nationally acclaimed UpSkill Houston initiative. Alvarez, a Forbes-recognized social entrepreneur and founder of Genesys Works, brings a proven track record in workforce development and a deep commitment to creating opportunities that bridge skills training and industry.
NEWS | December 6, 2024
The Greater Houston Partnership welcomed 12 new member companies in the month of November. The Partnership works to connect companies with resources, information and networking opportunities to help increase business while also providing a platform to influence the direction of the region.
NEWS | December 6, 2024
[PRESS RELEASE] Paris (France), Houston (USA), San Francisco (USA) — November 25, 2024 — Lauxera Capital Partners announces the acquisition of Galen Data, a leading provider of secure, cloud-based connectivity solutions for medical devices. This transaction follows Lauxera’s 2022 acquisition of Matrix Requirements, a leading ALM and eQMS software solution for medical device R&D and Quality teams.
NEWS | December 6, 2024
[PRESS RELEASE] Construction projects are won through relationships, 65% of business developers' time is spent searching for leads. Mercator.ai brings its visionary AI business development platform to Houston, flipping that equation for Texas's largest construction market.
NEWS | December 5, 2024
The holiday season is here, which means it's time to kick off your annual shopping spree! Whether you're shopping for lifelong locals or newcomers soaking up Houston's culture, this gift guide is packed with ideas that celebrate the Bayou City's rich traditions, flavors and style.
NEWS | November 27, 2024
Giving Tuesday is on December 3, offering Houstonians an opportunity to give back to the community. To help you get involved, we've rounded up a few organizations across the Houston area that are making a positive impact in the region.
NEWS | November 25, 2024
Plug and Play, an acclaimed startup incubator and accelerator based in Silicon Valley, Calif., has announced plans for a new location in Sugar Land, focusing on solutions for the future of smart cities.
NEWS | November 25, 2024
Amazon’s leadership in supplier diversity has positioned the corporation for success while driving inclusive economic growth. Kennedy Oates, Partnership Board Member and Vice President of Global Procurement at Amazon, shared insights and best practices at the Greater Houston Partnership’s One Houston Together Fall Chief Procurement Officers (CPO) Convening.
NEWS | November 20, 2024
William P. Hobby Airport has officially broken ground on its $470 million expansion project aimed at enhancing the passenger experience. The project will expand and modernize the airport’s West Concourse, originally built by Southwest Airlines in 2015. Planned upgrades include seven new gates, an advanced baggage-handling system, additional baggage claim carousels, and an overhead canopy along the departure curb to protect passengers from inclement weather while connecting the terminal to the parking garage.
NEWS | November 18, 2024
A groundbreaking ceremony for the Texas A&M University Space Institute was celebrated on Nov. 15, marked by the planting of the institute’s flag by Dr. Nancy Currie-Gregg, director of the institute, professor of engineering practice at Texas A&M and a former NASA astronaut.
Event | August 5, 2025
Hear from leaders and representatives fortifying Houston’s critical infrastructure and learn how government, industry, and community partners are building a stronger, more prepared region.