Texas Business Leaders Launch New Alliance to Strengthen Civic Engagement and Economic Growth

At the IGC Institute, we’ve always believed in the power of collaboration to drive positive change. Today, we’re proud to announce our partnership with the newly launched Texas Business Leader Alliance (TBLA), a groundbreaking organization aimed at strengthening the connections between civic engagement and economic prosperity.

A recent survey of 500 Texas business leaders conducted by Strategic Research Associates underscores why this alliance is so timely. An impressive 97% of respondents view civic participation as crucial to economic growth, yet nearly two-thirds (64%) feel businesses need to take a more active role in addressing pressing community issues. Additionally, 90% expressed concerns about the pervasive spread of misinformation, which they see as a threat to both democracy and economic stability.

These findings illuminate a clear call to action for Texas’s business leaders: our civic health and economic future are deeply intertwined. As Sharon Jones, advisor to the TBLA, aptly put it, “Texas business leaders understand that our economic prosperity and civic health are two sides of the same coin.” TBLA provides a much-needed platform for business leaders to engage in meaningful policy discussions and shape a future where businesses, employees, and communities thrive.

A Collective Vision for Progress

The Texas Business Leader Alliance aims to elevate business perspectives on critical policy areas such as workforce development, healthcare costs, and civic participation. Through research, roundtables, and coordinated efforts, TBLA seeks to ensure that the voices of business leaders are heard and integrated into solutions for the challenges facing Texas communities.

“Civic engagement from mature business owners and emerging small business entrepreneurs is essential to building and sustaining our Texas economy,” said John Hernandez, Senior Vice President of Amegy Bank and a member of the TBLA Advisory Council. “When leaders participate in civic activities, they bring diverse perspectives and innovative solutions that benefit everyone.”

A Collaborative Approach to Building Resilience

One of the most compelling aspects of TBLA is its emphasis on collaboration. As Justin Yancy, President of the Texas Business Leadership Council, highlighted, “The business community holds unique insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping Texas. However, these insights lose their impact if we remain isolated and fail to collaborate.”

By fostering connections among private sector leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders, TBLA is creating a vibrant ecosystem of ideas and action. The organization’s inaugural Advisory Council reflects this diversity and includes representatives from across industries and regions of Texas.

“A thriving business climate and civic engagement are interdependent,” said Kelley Taylor, CEO and co-founder of Taylor Construction Management and TBLA Advisory Council member. “By investing in both, we can create a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Texas for all.”

Call to Action

At the IGC Institute, we’re inspired by the survey’s findings and the bold vision of the Texas Business Leader Alliance. We see this as a pivotal moment for business leaders to step forward and engage in shaping public policy, promoting economic stability, and ensuring Texas remains a beacon of opportunity.

We invite business leaders from every industry and region to join this vital effort. Together, we can address the challenges of today and build a brighter tomorrow for the Lone Star State.

For more information about the Texas Business Leader Alliance and how you can get involved, visit txbizleaderalliance.org.

About the IGC Institute

The IGC Institute is a nonpartisan, nonprofit dedicated to fostering leadership and civic engagement to build stronger communities. Through partnerships like the one with TBLA, we’re working to empower individuals and organizations to drive meaningful change. Learn more at igcinstitute.org.