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Pecantown Books and Brews curates unique reads and farm-to-table food

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Located in a carefully restored historic home on Camp Street in downtown Seguin, Texas, Pecantown Books and Brews is far more than a bookstore. It’s a place where the best in books, food, and community intersect. Founded by Tess Coody-Anders in June 2022, this cozy space has quickly become a regional destination for readers, food lovers, and regional travelers. “We opened almost three years ago in downtown Seguin with the intent of bringing new books, new food, and new opportunities to connect to the downtown area,” Coody-Anders said. The vision extended beyond creating a retail space to curating a unique cultural...

TEDC Honors the Guadalupe Valley Region Organizations with 2024 Economic Excellence Recognition

Thursday, April 10, 2025

The Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) recognized 73 economic development organizations across the state as recipients of its 2024 Economic Excellence Recognition, an honor awarded during the 2025 TEDC Winter Conference held on February 28th in Austin.The Economic Excellence Recognition program celebrates economic development organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to professionalism. Recognition is based on staff certifications, professional memberships, organizational effectiveness, and training completed by both staff and governing bodies.Among this year’s honorees, several organizations from the Guadalupe Valley region received the prestigious recognition:Cuero Development CorporationGonzales Economic Development CorporationNew Braunfels Chamber of CommerceSchertz Economic Development CorporationSeguin Economic Development CorporationYoakum...

Texas Economy Grows Faster Than Nation In 4th Quarter Of 2024

Monday, March 31, 2025

Governor Greg Abbott today touted the strength of the expanding Texas economy as new data released by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis shows the Texas economy growing at a faster rate than the nation as a whole. The state’s real gross domestic product (GDP) grew in the fourth quarter of 2024 at an annual rate of 3.5%, well ahead of the U.S. average of 2.4%.  “Texas offers businesses the freedom to succeed and Texans the tools to prosper,” said Governor Abbott. “It is hardworking Texans who power our booming and growing economy. Year after year, we continue to lead...

Students, employers meet at skilled trades event

Friday, March 28, 2025

Though Seguin High senior Miguel Carrillo is eyeing a career as an electrician, he said he found other things that sparked his interest Wednesday at a career fair.Drawn to Seguin Career Day by the opportunity to speak with a representative of Masters Electrical Services, a stop at the TXFAME Lonestar Chapter booth also proved fruitful, Carillo said.“(TXFAME) sounds like a good opportunity to have. All of the opportunities they give, it sounds like a good program,” he said. “A lot of great people are here, a lot of great opportunities, a lot of great jobs, as well.”Those opportunities are what...

AGRIBUSINESS: Something Old Made New Again

Monday, March 24, 2025

Is the zeitgeist right for ‘agrihoods’?Would you rather invest in a golf course community or one where valuable property is profitably used to grow food?“Agrihoods” are gaining steam as an alternative real estate strategy targeting affluent, younger demographics that are jazzed by the prospect of living and raising families among nature and abundant, organic food sources.According to the Urban Land Institute, there are now about 200 “agrihoods” in more than 30 states across the United States, with such developments increasingly popping up not just in rural areas but also in proximity to major cities. ULI defines agrihoods as “single-family, multifamily,...

Ten Recommendations for Promoting Rural Communities to Attract Talent, Investment, and Businesses

Monday, March 24, 2025

Rural communities hold immense potential for growth, innovation, and development. However, capitalizing on this potential requires strategic efforts highlighting your rural community and its unique advantages. At Golden Shovel Agency, we specialize in empowering economic developers to promote their regions effectively.Why Promoting Rural Communities MattersEconomic development in rural areas is vital for cultivating growth, improving residents' quality of life, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Rural regions offer many benefits, such as lower operating costs, access to natural resources, and a close-knit community—yet they often face challenges in marketing themselves effectively to attract talent and investment.Read the full article from the Golden...

$7.5M Granted to Austin Community College to Expand Semiconductor Technician Training Programs

Wednesday, March 12, 2025

Texas was already the leading state in the nation for semiconductor chip manufacturing when, in 2022, the federal government passed the CHIPS Act and focused attention on bolstering this key industry. Texas’ government followed suit with its own CHIPS Act, spurring an influx of resources and job opportunities across the state. A new grant from the Department of Defense puts $7.5 million more into nascent semiconductor technician training programs at Austin Community College (ACC), readying the workforce to fill the high-tech jobs that will be created in coming years as new plants open.Strengthening National SecuritySemiconductors are the tiny computer “chips”...

VISD job fair aimed at obtaining and retaining high-quality teachers

Sunday, March 09, 2025

As part of the Victoria Independent School District's (VISD) mission to obtain and retain high-quality, experienced teachers, in accordance with the newly implemented 2025- 2029 academic strategic plan, the district will stage a two-day job fair beginning on April 3.The job fair will offer experienced educators or individuals with a bachelor's degree looking to enter into a career path in the education the opportunity to connect with hiring managers and explore opportunities to teach in VISD. the two-day event is intended exclusively for individuals interested in a teaching position within VISD.Read the full article here.

A greener Cuero

Wednesday, March 05, 2025

Community members gathered to plant 76 trees at the Ag Friar Complex on March 1. Mac Martin, the Community Forestry Program Lead, conducted a tree planting demonstration. He placed the tree on its side and carefully removed the bucket. Avoid yanking the tree out. Various species of oak trees were also available for free for take home....Read the full article here.

First-of-its-kind hydrogen ‘proto-hub’ backed by the DOE opens at University of Texas at Austin

Tuesday, March 04, 2025

While Texas might be best known for the fuel that’s under the ground, an exciting new hydrogen project at one Austin school explores the rich possibilities of several other natural resources the state has to offer. The Center for Electromechanics at The University of Texas at Austin has opened a cutting edge hydrogen power ‘proto-hub’ that will put clean power to the test and explore the possibilities of scaling up and modernizing the Texas energy industry.Several years in the making, this facility is part of the larger “Demonstration and Framework for H2@Scale in Texas and Beyond” project. H2@Scale is supported...

Seguin ISD unveils Matadors Legends Ballpark

Tuesday, March 04, 2025

With the snip of a ribbon, the Seguin High School baseball team officially has a home, while the softball team got an upgrade.While the teams have already christened the turf having practiced and played in the new stadium, the Matadors Legends Baseball/Softball Field officially opened Monday during a special ceremony.Students, staff, family and community members all gathered to help cut the golden ribbon, which signified the opening of Matador Legends Ballpark.“Thank you for supporting Seguin ISD, our schools and our students,” Seguin ISD Superintendent Veronica Vijil said at the ribbon cutting. “We would also like to recognize the families of...

Schertz EDC Earns Prestigious Economic Excellence Recognition

Monday, March 03, 2025

The Schertz Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) is proud to announce that it has been honored with the 2024 Economic Excellence Recognition from the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC). This prestigious award was presented at TEDC’s 2025 Winter Conference on February 28th in Austin, Texas, placing Schertz among an elite group of 71 organizations recognized for their outstanding commitment to economic development.The Economic Excellence Recognition Program highlights organizations that uphold high standards in economic development through training, certification, and adherence to best practices. Recipients qualify based on the professional development of their governing board, economic development director, and staff, as well...

From hurricanes to blizzards, TxDOT is ready

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

In Texas, the weather can turn on a dime. And in Southeast Texas, that means TxDOT needs to be ready for anything.“The strength of Mother Nature is so unpredictable,” said Melody Galland, director of maintenance for TxDOT in Houston. “Each of these weather events is a constant reminder that teamwork is essential—we can't face them alone. You have to learn to trust the people you have who work tirelessly to keep the roads open.”Southeast Texas experienced hurricanes last summer and an unprecedented winter snowstorm just six months later.Read the full article here.

12 Questions to Ask When Developing an Economic Development Strategy

Monday, February 24, 2025

Formulating an effective economic development strategy requires asking a full range of questions to identify community needs and priorities. Comprehensive economic development plans should address pressing and long-term needs in a community. Collaborating with key stakeholders ensures challenges and opportunities across all community sectors are acknowledged and considered as strategies are solidified. Golden Shovel Agency knows the questions to ask and the data to review to develop the most substantial economic development strategies and related plans.12 questions to ask when developing an economic development strategyWho are the key stakeholders in the region?Read the full article from Golden Shovel Agency here.

Hydrogen Hub on the Gulf Coast Set for Development of Clean Energy and Jobs

Monday, February 24, 2025

Scientists have long sought to effectively harness hydrogen as a clean power source. The earliest hydrogen fuel cell prototype, in fact, was developed in 1839, though American hydrogen research really took off after NASA used hydrogen fuel cells to power rockets in their race to space.The Gulf Coast was famously instrumental in journeying to the stars, and with plans for a massive new hydrogen hub on the way, it is also poised to help build the clean energy infrastructure of the future.The HyVelocity Hydrogen Hub is a collaboration between seven energy producers in the Houston area and is receiving funding...

Hydrogen An Evolving Technology

Friday, February 21, 2025

Napoleon Hill’s iconic quote, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve,” embodies the spirit of possibility and ambition that fuels innovation. This mindset is essential for driving not only individual success but also the evolution of entire industries. Innovation thrives on the belief that challenges can be overcome and that new ideas, once envisioned, can be transformed into groundbreaking realities.By applying this principle, industries can achieve transformative growth. It encourages leaders, thinkers, and innovators to push boundaries, adapt to changing environments, and create solutions that shape the future. Whether through technological advancements, process improvements, or entirely new...

Medical Device Manufacturers Respond to Challenges, Thrive

Friday, February 21, 2025

The medical device manufacturing industry is an innovative, thriving industry, to be sure. But even innovative, thriving industries entered 2025 with questions concerning making and assembling product, harnessing artificial intelligence, the new administration’s direction and, of course, costs.But answering those questions is what leads to progress.“With the ongoing pressures in health care to control costs, I believe the industry will continue to seek innovative ways to develop and produce products in a more efficient, cost-effective manner,” said Bob Vitoux, president and CEO of Warsaw, Ind.-based OrthoWorx, “while not forgoing the importance of quality and efficacy that has long been the...

New Braunfels is Growing in the Austin-San Antonio Corridor with GVEC Support

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Found along I-35 between San Antonio and Austin, New Braunfels is a vital community in the GVEC Region with a diverse base of companies operating in aviation, data centers, distribution, healthcare, and manufacturing. Tourism also flourishes in New Braunfels due to natural amenities like the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, highlighted by Schlitterbahn, the top waterpark in the country.New Braunfels Continues Rapid Growth New Braunfels is thriving, with a general population of 100,000, a growth rate of 2.87%, and a talented workforce approaching a half million within commuting distance. As more businesses and residents continue to move to New Braunfels, the nearly...

La Vernia is a GVEC Region Community With Several Commercial Sites

Tuesday, February 04, 2025

Located 25 miles southeast of San Antonio, La Vernia is a community in the GVEC Region home to several available commercial sites. It is built along US 87, a north-south corridor that starts near the Port of Victoria and travels through the country until it reaches Canada through central Montana.Pick from Several Commercial Sites for Development in La Vernia and the GVEC Region  Not only are there several commercial sites available in La Vernia, but there is also a strong, educated workforce to pull from. The community has a renowned school system and a median household income of $77,000. Learn...

Schertz is One of the Best Places to Live in the GVEC Region

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Schertz is a vital community in the GVEC Region, named One of the Best Places to Live by Money Magazine. The desirable city located just outside San Antonio has more than 15,000 households and a population of 44,000, with a substantial projected growth rate.Work and Live in Schertz; A Jewel of the GVEC RegionSchertz’s strategic location offers easy connections to Austin, Houston, and the rest of Texas by both I-10 and I-35, making it a popular location for business investment. General Electric, Caterpillar, FedEx, Amazon, and Sysco have invested a combined half a billion dollars in capital to grow their...

5 Ways To Get Your LinkedIn Profile Viewed By Your Dream Customers

Thursday, January 23, 2025

Your perfect customer is searching for someone just like you. They want exactly what you offer. They need your skills, expertise and solutions. But if your LinkedIn profile isn't set up to grab their attention, they'll find someone else.When I started taking LinkedIn seriously, my business exploded. In one year my account grew from 7k to 30k followers, with a high proportion being my dream customers. This isn't random, and it's not luck. You can do it too. With intention, a process, and commitment to keep going, you can grow your business with help from LinkedIn.Read the full article from...

Diverse Businesses to be found in Gonzales, TX, and the GVEC Region

Tuesday, January 21, 2025

With a diverse economic base, Gonzales, TX, is a thriving community in the GVEC Region. It is home to well-known companies like Adams Extract & Spice, Purina, Tyson, Kitchen Pride Mushroom Farm, and BYK Industries, which completed a $50 million expansion in the city in 2020. Gonzales is also an agricultural hub for poultry, mushrooms, feed, and beef.Gonzales Holds Historic Place in the GVEC RegionBeyond its commercial and industrial base, Gonzales has played an essential role in the history of Texas. It is home to the first battle of the Texas Revolution in 1835, with the iconic Come and Take...

GVEC Economic Development Serves Goliad County, Texas

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

GVEC Economic Development recognizes the potential Goliad County provides with easy access to Corpus Christi. The city of Goliad itself is just 75 miles from the port, providing a key location for businesses that import materials and export manufactured products.  GVEC Economic Development Sees Potential in Goliad CountyGoliad County could be poised for growth in the coming years, and businesses are increasingly taking interest. It is currently home to 135 businesses across a variety of industries. The city of Goliad is also the smallest town in Texas to be selected for the Main Street Program.  Visit the GVEC website to...

Visit Available Sites for Development in the GVEC Region

Tuesday, January 07, 2025

Developers and site seekers have a wide variety of available sites for commercial development in the GVEC Region. Parcels of land come in various sizes, from smaller plots with rail access to vast expanses of shovel-ready sites primed for facility development. Available Sites in the GVEC Region Fit Every IndustryNot only does the GVEC Region have large expanses of land, but it also has easy access to large metropolitan areas. Developers can fly into San Antonio, Austin, or Houston and quickly reach available commercial sites throughout the GVEC Region via I-10 and I-35. Visit the GVEC website to look at some of...

Sales tax growth demonstrates growing economy in Seguin

Thursday, January 02, 2025

More money continues to flow into the local economy. The city of Seguin wrapped up 2024 with a look at sales tax data for the last few years.Finance Director Susan Caddell shared the news about the city's growing sales tax collections during a presentation at the last meeting of the Seguin City Council. Caddell says Seguin's sales tax growth exceeded that of most communities in this area.“Really good news on the sales tax front. (We had) a 12.46 percent increase from this time last year. You can see every month, with the exception of June, we're up. Then you can...

Policy experts want dedicated funding for water projects in 2025

Wednesday, January 01, 2025

During the last legislative session in 2023, lawmakers created a new fund to jump-start water supply projects and fix aging water infrastructure across the state.The law focused on funding a handful of ideas, including marine and brackish water desalination plants and acquiring water from other states. Despite these efforts, water remains a concern for many across the Lone Star State: Current conditions show much of the state is experiencing some level of drought, with the most extreme in far West Texas, near El Paso.So what do advocates in the water space hope happens at this upcoming legislative session?Read the full...

How does the Legislature work, and who is in the chamber? Here’s what you need to know for the next month.

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

The Texas Legislature meets once every two years in Austin for 140 days – unless the governor calls a special session, that is.The 89th legislative session starts in just two weeks, and there are a whole lot of rules governing what can happen when. There are also new faces in the chamber this session.Lauren McGaughy, an investigative reporter and editor for The Texas Newsroom, said that overall the House is expected to be more conservative than it was last time around.Read the full article here.

GVEC Region is a Must-See for Site Selectors Across the Country

Tuesday, December 31, 2024

Site selectors across all industries benefit from visiting the GVEC Region, a vibrant region in Texas ideal for development. This area combines easy access to large cities like San Antonia, Austin, Houston, and Dallas with shovel-ready sites and vast expanses of land ready to be built upon. GVEC Region Will Meet the Needs of Site Selectors and DevelopersGVEC Region can meet the needs of almost any company within every industry. From manufacturing to healthcare, there are ample resources in the area. This region also has a vibrant workforce, with access to graduates from dozens of elite universities. Your business will launch...

Run a Job Task Analysis

Monday, December 30, 2024

In today’s fast-evolving skilled trades industry, employers are navigating significant challenges, including labor shortages, high turnover rates, and widening skills gaps. To address these issues effectively, companies must prioritize talent management strategies that foster recruitment, retention, and ongoing employee development. A key component of this approach is job task analysis, a systematic process that helps organizations pinpoint the exact skills and knowledge workers need to excel in their roles.The role of job task analysis in workforce developmentJob task analysis is a powerful tool that enables employers to break down each role into specific tasks and identify the knowledge, skills, and...

Governor Abbott Showcases Texas’ Economy Across The Globe In 2024

Sunday, December 29, 2024

Governor Greg Abbott highlighted the three economic development missions he led in 2024. During the trips, the Governor met with business leaders and government officials around the globe to showcase and promote the booming Texas economy.“Texas is the eighth-largest economy in the world, a global leader in energy and trade, and the world’s premier economic destination because of our top-tier business climate,” said Governor Abbott. “That is why this year, I visited with business leaders and government officials in India, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom to showcase the booming Texas economy and attract more businesses to invest...

Texas Leads As Energy Capital Of The World In 2024

Thursday, December 26, 2024

Governor Greg Abbott today championed Texas' booming energy industry and highlighted the progress that Texas made in 2024 to increase the electric capacity of the state grid and invest in an all-of-the-above energy approach to solidify Texas as the world's energy hub. “Texas would not be the energy capital of the world without the hard work of the men and women of the energy industry,” said Governor Abbott. "As Texas continues to experience unprecedented growth, we will remain a leader in energy while also bolstering the Texas grid to meet the growing demands of our great state. In the last twelve...

GVEC Communities Happy to Work with Hollywood as Film-Friendly Locations

Friday, December 20, 2024

Several communities in the GVEC Region have been certified as Film Friendly under the Texas Film Commission’s Film Friendly Texas program, including Cuero, Gonzales, Seguin, Shiner, Yorktown, New Braunfels, and Yoakum. More than 175 Texas cities are now Film Friendly Certified Communities. The designation helps attract film and TV production projects to communities in the GVEC Region. Being a film-friendly community offers several benefits, such as increased visibility for tourism and economic boosts to local businesses through productions, talent, and crews. For the film industry, these communities provide a warm welcome alongside picturesque, historic locations, making them ideal filming destinations.What...

USDA Announces $300 Million in Additional Regional Agricultural Promotion Program Grants to Diversify U.S. Agricultural Export Markets

Thursday, December 19, 2024

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the second round of Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) grants, which is intended to allocate $300 million to 67 partners once all legal and administrative requirements are satisfied, expanding American food and agricultural exports in emerging global markets. This latest investment brings total RAPP funding to $600 million in 2024.The new grants aim to diversify export markets in regions with rising consumer demand and purchasing power, including Africa, Latin America/the Caribbean, and South/Southeast Asia. These regions offer significant opportunities for U.S. producers seeking to establish a stronger foothold in dynamic and growing...

GVEC Economic Development Recognizes Cuero as Poised for Growth

Tuesday, December 17, 2024

GVEC Economic Development is excited about the distinctions earned by the community of Cuero, Texas. This area is a great place to work, play, and rest with its recognition as a Go Texan Certified Retirement Community.GVEC Economic Development Views Cuero as a Valuable CommunityThe residents of Cuero continue to invest in the region and are eager to support the businesses that operate there. Some of the top industries in the area include healthcare, retail trade, and educational services. GVEC Economic Development sees a lot of potential in Cuero. Visit the GVEC website to learn more about this community. 

Notable Growth in Food Production and Processing

Sunday, December 15, 2024

The Food and Beverage Production sector in the U.S. is a significant contributor to the economy, accounting for nearly 3.5 million jobs and over $534.3 billion of GDP in 2023. This sector includes Agriculture, Fishing, and Food and Beverage Processing subsectors, with notable job growth in food manufacturing, particularly beverage production.States in the Midwest lead in employment concentration within this sector compared to the U.S. as a whole and are seeing billions in Food & Beverage Manufacturing investments in 2024 so far. Within 2024, cross-border capital investments in the Food and Beverage industry have surged, driven by both foreign and...

GVEC Economic Development Supports Growth in Cibolo, Texas

Tuesday, December 10, 2024

GVEC Economic Development is proud of the growth Cibolo, Texas has experienced in recent years. This community is strategically located 23 miles northeast of Downtown San Antonio, making it a popular location for people and businesses who want easy access to the city. GVEC Economic Development is Excited About Population Growth in CiboloMore people are moving to Cibolo than ever. The community has a 3.12% population growth rate and is expected to reach more than 40,000 residents by 2028. Now is an excellent time for businesses to move to the area because the workforce is growing. Visit GVEC Economic Development to...

Victoria Airport applies for grant to redesign terminal building

Sunday, December 08, 2024

Officials at the Victoria Regional Airport are looking to redesign the terminal building to better reflect and service the Victoria community. They are doing this through the acquisition of a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant.Through continued support from the county and reception of the grant, Victoria's airport could see a major structural change.The airport provides 272 community members with jobs and brings in $42.3 million in revenue annually. Enplanements at the airport have gone up drastically, crossing the required 10,000 enplanements to increase guaranteed funding from the FFA from 150,000 to 1.3 million.Read the full article here.

Real Texas Christmas trees boost economy, agritourism shows continued growth

Friday, December 06, 2024

More than four million real Christmas trees are sold annually in Texas, supporting farms and agriculture businesses throughout the state. As the holiday season nears, Texas A&M Forest Service encourages purchasing real Christmas trees to help boost the Texas economy.A 2022 Texas A&M Forest Service economic study revealed that the Texas Christmas tree industry generated economic impacts amounting to more than $714 million, including direct, indirect and induced impacts while supporting nearly 6,000 jobs. Of $714 million in total impacts, the Texas Christmas tree industry had a direct economic impact of $397 million, employing 3,896 people with a payroll of...

La Vernia ISD breaks ground for Bond 2023’s Proposition A projects

Wednesday, December 04, 2024

The La Vernia Independent School District (ISD) celebrated a groundbreaking ceremony Dec. 2 for the district’s Bond 2023 projects. The event took place at La Vernia Intermediate School and was attended by district leaders, administration, and board members.The Bond 2023 initiative, approved by voters in May 2023, is to ensure that La Vernia ISD has future capacity to accommodate student enrollment growth and to provide classroom space for students currently in overcrowded campuses. The bond is also aimed at renovating aging facilities throughout the school district as part of the district’s long-range preventative maintenance plan.The bond included two propositions which...

Business Benefit from Education & Workforce Development Infrastructure in GVEC Region

Tuesday, December 03, 2024

The education & workforce development infrastructure is robust in the GVEC region. With an extensive network of nearby colleges and universities, employers have access to a talented workforce with educated employees. Dynamic Education & Workforce DevelopmentThe GVEC Region is home to Alamo Colleges’ Central Texas Technology Center, Texas Lutheran University, Texas State Technical College & FAME Center, and Victoria College-Gonzales Center. Students also come to the GVEC Region from nearby public four-year institutions, including The University of Texas (San Antonio and Austin) and the University of Houston-Victoria – just to name a few.Visit the GVEC website to learn more about the...

County OKs reinvestment zone for development

Tuesday, December 03, 2024

Guadalupe County Commissioners Court agreed to set up a reinvestment zone for possible tax abatement in the county.Guadalupe County Judge Kyle Kutscher abstained from Tuesday’s vote on the issue because he is part owner of the land in question. The owners of about 440 acres plan to sale to a developer that could receive tax abatements as part of the deal and Kutshcer said he and his wife own about 10 of those acres. He has kept out of the county’s side of the negotiations due to a conflict of interest, Kutscher said.Read the full article here.

Shopping app hits Seguin in time for holidays

Friday, November 29, 2024

Small Business Saturday and the Christmas shopping season just got more rewarding in Seguin.The Seguin Economic Development Corporation and the city partnered with local businesses to offer a new shop-local app, Open Rewards, that offers cash back at more than 125 restaurants and retail businesses across the city. The app and program should prove beneficial to merchants and consumers, said Tess Coody-Anders, owner of Pecantown Books and Brews.Read the full article here.

20 ways to prioritize professional development for maximum impact

Wednesday, November 27, 2024

Staying ahead in any industry requires continuous networking and education, but with countless options available, making the right choices can be challenging. It’s important for you to focus on the events and programs that will provide the most value for your time and investment.To help you navigate this decision-making process effectively, Fast Company Executive Board members share insights into determining the best bang for your buck when it comes to staying ahead. These tips can help you evaluate and select the best business events, conferences, and training programs to ensure you’re investing wisely in your professional development.Read the full article...

Strong Transportation Infrastructure Supports the GVEC Region

Tuesday, November 26, 2024

GVEC Economic Development understands the critical role transportation plays in business growth.  Not only is this region centrally located between Austin, San Antonio, and Houston, but there are multiple ways to travel to the area. GVEC Economic Development Encourages Site Selectors to VisitTwo major highway arteries – I-10 and I-35 – pass through the GVEC Region, making it easy to reach this area regardless of where you come from. The north-south and east-west access opens the entire Texas Department of Transportation system to businesses throughout the region. Investors can also arrive via San Antonio International Airport. Union Pacific and the Short Line...

Lessons Learned from the Trenches: Strategies for Business Succession Planning

Monday, November 11, 2024

According to the State of Small Business survey, 54% of U.S. business owners are over the age of 50. In rural areas, this is a concerning statistic. In communities where there are numerous restaurants and hardware stores, losing one to an owner retiring is not a significant challenge. If they happen to own the only hardware store, it’s a different story.Roger Hrabe, Director of Rooks County Economic Development, is diligently working to ensure his community doesn’t lose any more businesses to retirement. He shared stories of businesses that have suddenly closed due to owners' health issues or other outside factors...

How Automation Is Actually Closing the Labor Gap

Monday, November 04, 2024

Industrial automation and robotics offer huge benefits to manufacturing and warehouse distribution and fulfilment operations. This is not a new concept; articles going back decades have explained how these applications can improve quality and consistency, optimize productivity and throughput, increase worker safety, and reduce direct labor cost.The topic has gained currency and urgency in today’s dynamic industrial landscape because of the dramatic labor gap in the U.S. The gap is a critical issue affecting the U.S. economy, and automation and robotics can be a strong part of the solution.Read the full article from Area Development here.

Located in the GVEC Region, Seguin is a Quick Drive from San Antonio

Monday, December 23, 2024

If you want to strategically grow your business locations, choose Seguin, which is located in the GVEC Region between San Antonio and Austin. You can easily reach Seguin from both cities – with San Antonio just 30 minutes away via I-10.Seguin, TX, is a Prime Location for Manufacturing in the GVEC Region Seguin has the highest manufacturing jobs per capita in the state of Texas. It is home to several companies, including Caterpillar, Tyson Foods, and Star Manufacturing. There are also plenty of skilled employees for your business, as Seguin has more than 32,000 residents and a population growth rate of...