Innovation, Maturity, and What’s Next
This month alone, we’ve seen major companies double down on their presence and partnerships in the region. It’s an exciting development that could accelerate our momentum. The emerging interconnectivity between Apple, Samsung, Tesla and Applied Materials and others is a testament to the dynamic quality of our tech ecosystem. Our aerospace sector also saw some great wins with Firefly having a successful IPO. Considering the important role all of these companies and sectors play locally and globally, it’s clear we are positioned well for what comes next.
— Ed Latson, CEO, Opportunity Austin
FEATURED ARTICLES
Apple boosts investment in Austin and across Texas: Apple Inc. is tacking $100 billion of new investment onto the $500 billion it has already committed as it expands its manufacturing operations in the U.S. Its new American Manufacturing Program will include several projects across the state. Some of that work will be happening in Austin.
Samsung, Tesla strike $16B chip deal for Taylor factory: Elon Musk predicts Tesla will spend even more with Samsung beyond this deal. Elon Musk announced July 28 that Tesla Inc. has signed a $16.5 billion deal to source semiconductor chips from Samsung Electronics Co. Ltd. at its Taylor factory, which is on track to open next year.
ACC is the first higher education institution in Texas to receive a state semiconductor grant: Gov. Greg Abbott announced the $3.6 million award will fund the new 2,600-square-foot Austin Semiconductor Advanced Manufacturing Lab and a precision welding program at ACC’s Round Rock campus.
Firefly Aerospace takes flight on Wall Street
The Austin-area space technology company made one of the largest local IPO debuts in the past decade, opening with a $9.8B valuation and signaling strong investor confidence in the region’s aerospace and defense sector.
From our blog
Innovation Storytellers Podcast: How Austin is Innovation’s Newest Hot Spot:
In this episode of The Innovation Storytellers Show, host Susan Lindner sits down with Callie Taylor, Vice President of Economic Development at Opportunity Austin, to explore how Austin, Texas, evolved from a creative, music-fueled city into one of the world’s fastest-growing innovation ecosystems. Listen now.
Advocacy Updates:
The Austin region invests in quality of life that makes it attractive to people and businesses. Policy and Advocacy communications aim to provide OA Investors and stakeholders with greater transparency and opportunities for involvement in the public policy making process, helping advance the quality-of-life goals for the Austin region. Read more.
Aerospace & Defense in the Austin region:
Aerospace & Defense in the Austin region: The Austin Region’s Aerospace & Defense cluster is rapidly expanding, adding a new dimension to the region’s established tech landscape. With aerospace as a longstanding business line among Austin’s tech employers, the region embraces the challenges and opportunities of advancing technologies. 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.
