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The Surge: May 2025

Leading at Every Level

Leadership shows up in every corner of our region—whether it’s a local partner securing new investment or a company opening doors to future talent. These efforts reflect the kind of leadership that drives results and keeps our region competitive.

From RealCold’s grand opening in Lockhart to the national recognition of our partners in Cedar Park and Georgetown, these stories reflect the kind of leadership that drives results.

The Summer Educator Externship, led by Workforce Solutions Capital Area in partnership with Region 13, is another example of how programs can connect educators with industry to strengthen the workforce pipeline.

Opportunity Austin exists to support this kind of progress. We’re grateful for the leaders behind it and the regional collaboration that makes it possible.

— Ed Latson, CEO, Opportunity Austin

FEATURED ARTICLES

Meet North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers: We’re proud to celebrate 3 of our regional partners—Arthur Jackson (Cedar Park Economic Development Corporation), Cameron Goodman (City of Georgetown, Office of Economic Development), and Zach Scott (Round Rock Chamber) —for being named as some of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers. This recognition highlights professionals who are leading with vision, collaboration, and impact.

Austin’s momentum in life sciences: Opportunities and the road ahead: Austin’s life sciences sector is undergoing rapid transformation. Fueled by a unique blend of innovation, talent, and collaboration, Austin has built a reputation as a tech powerhouse, but the region has always been about more than just tech. As we looked to diversify and expand our economic landscape, life sciences emerged as the next big opportunity.

RealCold Opens Flagship Facility in Lockhart: RealCold celebrated the grand opening of its 312,000-square-foot cold storage facility in Lockhart—its first ground-up development and one of its flagship sites. The project brings over 100 jobs to the region and reflects strong leadership and collaboration across local, county, and regional partners, including the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership.

 

Austin's Talent Advantage

Austin’s Talent Advantage is a key driver of economic growth. 

With 25 universities and colleges hosting over 400,000 students within a 100-mile radius, companies find the skilled workforce they need right here.

From software engineering to semiconductor manufacturing, Austin’s talent pipeline powers innovation across industries.

Learn more.

From our blog

Global Momentum Builds in the Austin Region:

Austin continues to prove itself as a global hub for innovation, investment, and impact. Read the newsletter for ecosystem insights, event highlights, and exciting program updates. Read the newsletter.

Rethinking Housing Affordability in the Austin Region: 

Across Texas, housing markets are evolving in response to post pandemic shifts, but few places are experiencing that change more intensely than Austin. While home prices and rents have come down from their pandemic-era peaks, affordability remains a key priority. Read the blog.

Why Austin?:

Austin is a vibrant, globally connected region that drives inclusive economic prosperity through innovation, investment, and collaboration. We offer a distinct way of life, nurture a deep talent pool, foster an innovation culture, and boast an impressive economic profile. But you might be wondering, “Why Austin?” The answer lies in the unique blend of opportunities and experiences that make this region a one-of-a-kind place. Learn more.

LET’S STAY CONNECTED

For businesses: Opportunity Austin is able to provide confidential support for projects, including real estate research, and the facilitation of all aspects of the site selection process.

For start ups & funders: More and more creativity, innovation, & collaboration. The Austin Region is a magnet for innovation and entrepreneurship, attracting diverse industries and fostering growth of established companies and startups.

 

Recent Posts
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The new office will support emerging and new businesses across Apollo’s asset management and retirement solutions platform, while also advancing the firm’s approach to technology and operations.

Pitchbook released their Q2 Venture Capital report, showing that companies in the Austin region raised approximately $6.5B YTD, more than twice the money raised in the same period during 2025 ($2.9B). Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics released 2025 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, showing that the Austin region is fourth among the top 50 metros in the percent of STEM jobs.

The Austin region’s continued ability to attract and grow companies depends on more than creating jobs, it depends on having the talent to fill them.

Austin Business Journal spotlights the many defense companies that have set up shop outside Austin lately.

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