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The Surge: October 2024

Celebrating Manufacturing Month in the Austin Region:

As we recognize Manufacturing Month, we are reminded of the vital role this sector plays in shaping the economic landscape of Central Texas. Over the past few decades, manufacturing has evolved into a cornerstone of our region’s growth, supporting thousands of jobs and fostering innovation across a variety of industries. Today, more than 1,900 manufacturers contribute to the diversity and strength of our economy.

This growth underscores the importance of continued collaboration across industry, education, and government to ensure we remain competitive in a rapidly changing global market. By working together, we are building the foundation for long-term success and ensuring Central Texas continues to lead in manufacturing excellence.

Opportunity Austin is proud to support this ecosystem by recruiting new manufacturers to the region, providing resources, and facilitating connections that strengthen the region’s manufacturing capabilities. Together, we’re not just supporting today’s progress—we’re building the future of Central Texas.

— Ed Latson, CEO, Opportunity Austin

FEATURED ARTICLES

Rep. Lloyd Doggett presents $1.5 million in congressional funding to ACC: On Thursday, August 29, U.S. Representative Lloyd Doggett visited the College to announce new $1.5 million congressional funding he secured directly to support semiconductor training at ACC. 

First look: Jet engine manufacturer’s divisional HQ opens in Austin with more to come: The Sept. 10 event took place about three months after Aigrain went public with the plans he has called a “triple play” from company, which represents a notable economic development win for the region.

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Breaks Ground on Midfield Taxiways, Aiding Future Concourse Expansion:Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) celebrated the ground breaking of two new concrete parallel midfield taxiways, a key component in the development of a new 20+ gate concourse. 

Secure Your Tickets for the 2024 A-LIST Awards

Don’t miss your chance to attend the 13th Annual A-LIST Awards on October 23rd at The Long Center for Performing Arts, where we will be honoring Austin’s top innovators, including our 2024 Ecosystem Leader of the Year, Tyson Tuttle, Founder & CEO of Circuit. Tyson will be joining us for a special fireside chat, sharing insights on his journey and contributions to Austin’s thriving tech landscape. All checked-in attendees will be entered into a live raffle to win two Copa Airlines tickets, including the option for a Panama stopover, giving you the chance to explore two destinations in one trip!

From our blog

The Evolution of Manufacturing in the Austin Region:

The roots of Central Texas’ manufacturing industry stretch back to the 1980s when industry giants like IBM, Motorola, 3M, and Dell first established a presence in Austin. These companies played a pivotal role in shaping Austin’s rise as a tech and manufacturing hub.

 Read the blog.

Austin Job Postings Report September 2024:
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Austin MSA unemployment rate was 3.6% in August 2024, a decrease of 0.2% from the prior month.
Austin Remains A Place Where Workers and Companies Want to Be:

For nearly two decades, Central Texas has excelled in population growth, corporate relocations and job creation, remaining resilient through economic downturns and the pandemic.

Read the blog.

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.

 

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Significant revisions to data on Venture Capital funding data in Pitchbook’s Q3 Venture Monitor have propelled the Austin region to the third-largest VC market in the US– the Region’s highest ranking ever.

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.

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