Powering Partnerships for Economic Growth in Gonzales, TX

In Gonzales, economic development is a team effort. From helping existing businesses expand to attracting new investment, the Gonzales Economic Development Corporation (GEDC) works alongside local and regional partners to create opportunities for businesses and residents.

For Josh Gray, chairman of the GEDC Board of Directors, much of that work comes down to making connections. The volunteer board works to support businesses creating jobs in Gonzales while helping new and existing companies access the resources they need to succeed.

“Our main focus is supporting the businesses that are adding jobs to the community,” Gray said.

A Partnership Built on Economic Opportunity

The arrival of Synergos Companies offers a powerful example of how partnerships are helping bring new investment and jobs to Gonzales. Synergos Companies is a diversified manufacturing and distribution company focused on building materials and related products for the construction industry. The company selected 28 acres of rail-served property for a new structural building materials operation, with plans to create up to 145 jobs. 

Bringing the project together required collaboration among Synergos, GEDC, GVEC, Texas Gonzales and Northern Railway (TXGN), the City of Gonzales and Gonzales County. The rail-served location provides important transportation and logistics capabilities, while the broader partnership helped advance a significant economic development opportunity.

Gray emphasized that projects of this scale often depend on getting the right people around the table. He particularly credited TXGN and its Director of Business Support and Development, Joey Evans, for championing Gonzales and helping advance the project.

The collaboration reflects a larger philosophy behind economic development in Gonzales. By bringing businesses, utilities, transportation providers, local government and economic development leaders together, the community can address needs and create an environment that supports investment.

Helping Gonzales Businesses Grow

GEDC places equal importance on supporting companies already doing business in Gonzales. Gray said the organization works with existing employers on everything from relatively small requests to larger expansion opportunities, particularly when projects can create jobs.

Adams Extract provides one example. GEDC assisted with an expansion that helped the food ingredient and spice manufacturer expand one of its production lines, bringing additional and higher-paying jobs to the community.

For Gray, projects like these demonstrate why business retention and expansion remain important components of Gonzales' economic development strategy.

Developing the Workforce of Tomorrow

Gonzales is also preparing for the workforce that businesses will need. The Tom Lester Jr. CTE facility is expanding career and technical education opportunities for local students, including pathways that can lead to certifications in fields such as welding and electrical work.

Gray sees an opportunity for GEDC to serve as a bridge between the school district and local employers, helping students gain experience and develop relationships with businesses before graduation.

The goal is to create career opportunities that encourage young people to remain in Gonzales, find quality employment, and build their futures in the community.

Ready to Build Relationships

As Gonzales prepares for continued growth, partnerships will remain central to its economic development strategy. For businesses and investors considering the community, Gray's message is straightforward.

“We want you here, and we want to build a relationship,” Gray said. “Come see what we have to offer, get to know the community.”

With businesses investing, workforce initiatives gaining momentum, and partners like GVEC working together, Gonzales is positioning itself to turn new opportunities into long-term economic growth. Contact GVEC to learn more about these dynamic partnerships.