Unleashing San Antonio's Business Potential

San Antonio has long been a cornerstone of the tourism, military, healthcare, and biosciences industries. The city's aerospace sector thrives, bolstered by substantial military contracts, and its growing reputation as a cybersecurity hub has made it the second-largest in the U.S. However, as neighboring cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston attract more tech companies, San Antonio risks stagnation.

Texas has become a magnet for tech firms, with many relocating due to favorable business conditions, lower taxes, and a lower cost of living. Notable examples include Oracle, Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and Tesla—all of which have moved their operations to Texas in recent years. With the ongoing migration of tech firms, San Antonio must strategize to capture its share of this momentum.

The future looks promising, with major players in cloud computing, autonomous aviation, and industrial 3D printing considering moves to Texas. Companies like Xwing and Markforged are drawn to the state's lower operating costs and more favorable regulatory environment. It’s essential that San Antonio positions itself as a prime destination for these industries.

To prepare for this expansion, we must focus on:

1. Strengthening the Tech Ecosystem: Establish technology incubators and foster collaboration between universities and research centers to drive innovation and talent development.
2. Enhancing Infrastructure: Invest in transportation networks, broadband access and 5G coverage, ensuring we have the necessary infrastructure to attract tech businesses.
3. Developing a Skilled Workforce: Prioritize STEM education and collaborate with local universities to create training programs that meet industry needs.
4. Implementing Business-Friendly Policies: Consider targeted tax incentives and streamline business establishment processes to attract and retain companies.

San Antonio has immense potential, but we must actively promote our city’s advantages and market our growth opportunities. We need a strong leader to champion these initiatives and guide our community toward success.

That leader is Dr. Tim Westley. As your next mayor, I am committed to driving San Antonio’s business expansion and ensuring a prosperous future for all residents. Together, let's unleash our city’s full potential!