Stephanie Walton Stephanie Walton
Senior Director, Digital and Editorial Communications

Published

January 17, 2025

Share

During the 2025 State of American Business program, Stephen Waguespack, President of the Institute for Legal Reform and Senior Vice President at the U.S. Chamber, sat down with three North Texas Chamber of Commerce CEOs to discuss the key drivers of economic growth in North Texas. Their conversation showcased the unique strengths of their regions and the challenges they face.

The community leaders shared the "secret sauce" behind the success in each of their regions:

  • Irving-Las Colinas thrives on its central location, safe neighborhoods, and global accessibility, attracting industries like FinTech, medical, and pharma, said Beth Bowman.
  • Longview is experiencing a manufacturing boom, fueled by billion-dollar investments and a surge in entrepreneurial activity, said Kelly Hall.
  • Arlington, known as a "can-do city," highlighted its rapid business growth and vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, said Michael Jacobson.

The three–colleagues and friendly competitors–also discussed how large corporations create a ripple effect, supporting small businesses and enabling them to scale and succeed.

Stephen Waguespack, President of the Institute for Legal Reform and Senior Vice President at the U.S. Chamber, joined a roundtable discussion with Beth Bowman of the Greater Irving Las Colinas Chamber, Kelly Hall of the Longview Chamber, and Michael Jacobson of the Greater Arlington Chamber.

Challenges were also a focal point, particularly federal regulations and tax policies. The panelists voiced concerns about regulatory barriers that disproportionately impact small businesses and hinder innovation. They stressed the need for a competitive tax and regulatory environment to attract foreign investment and sustain economic momentum.

The discussion concluded with a call for continued collaboration among chambers, businesses, and policymakers to address these challenges and ensure Texas remains a leader in economic growth.

About the authors

Stephanie Walton

Stephanie Walton

Senior Director, Digital and Editorial Communications

Topics