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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Janel Knight Trulear janel@emccommunications.com (617) 875-6581 Texas business leaders launch organization to strengthen civic engagement and economic growth Survey reveals 97% of Texas business leaders view civic participation as crucial; majority see need for increased engagement on issues that can lead to strong businesses and thriving communities HOUSTON, TX, Dec. 3, 2024 — A survey of 500 Texas business leaders has unveiled a striking consensus in the Lone Star state: while 97% recognize the critical importance of civic engagement, nearly two-thirds (64%) believe Texas businesses should participate more actively. In response to this clear mandate, the Texas Business Leader Alliance (TBLA) launched today as a collaborative for business leaders to actively shape our state’s economic future through civic engagement. “The survey results make it clear that Texas business leaders understand that our economic prosperity and civic health are two sides of the same coin,” said Sharon Jones, advisor of the Texas Business Leader Alliance. “The Texas Business Leader Alliance offers them a way to engage in policy discussions and drive positive change for our businesses, employees, customers and communities.” The survey, conducted by Strategic Research Associates for the Texas Business Leader Alliance, also highlighted pressing concerns about the state of democracy in Texas. An overwhelming 90% of business leaders expressed alarm about the spread of misinformation. This is of concern to Texas business leaders because 91% of them agree that a strong democracy where everyone can participate is crucial to a vibrant economy. “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 business owners and leaders actively participate in civic activities, we all benefit from their diverse perspectives and the innovative solutions they generate. Collaborating with individuals from different backgrounds and experiences fosters a richer exchange of ideas, leading to more comprehensive and effective strategies. The Alliance provides a productive platform for leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue and collaboration, ultimately driving progress and positive change in our communities.” The Texas Business Leader Alliance will elevate business perspectives on a wide range of policy areas, from workforce development and high healthcare costs to civic participation. The organization will conduct research, convene roundtables, and coordinate efforts to promote policies that align business voiceswith community priorities. “The business community holds unique insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping Texas,” said Justin Yancy, President of the Texas Business Leadership Council and TBLA Advisory Council member . “However, these insights lose their impact if we remain isolated and fail to collaborate. TBLA fosters connection and dialogue, ensuring that the business community plays an integral role in building a stronger, more resilient, and prosperous Texas.” The inaugural TBLA Advisory Council includes: Christina Cabral - Executive Director, Transportation Advocacy Group (TAG) Houston John Hernandez - Senior Vice President at Amegy Bank Barbara Joe - Director of Operations of the Asian Chamber of Commerce Houston Sam Kelner - Business Performance Advisor, Insperity Taylor Landin - Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer, Greater Houston Partnership Drew Scheberle - Senior Advisor, Texas Association of Business Keri Curtis Schmidt - President & CEO, Fort Bend Chamber Kelley Taylor - CEO/co-founder of Taylor Construction Management Tammi Wallace - President & CEO of the Greater Houston LGBT Chamber of Commerce Josh Wallenstein - Managing Member of The Wallenstein Law Group Dr. Anjanette Wyatt -Immediate Past President of APhA Foundation and CEO of Clinical Care Pharmacies, LLC Justin Yancy - President, Texas Business Leadership Council “A thriving business climate and a civic engagement are interdependent," said Kelley Taylor CEO/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. We invite business leaders from every industry and every corner of the state to join us in this vital work. Together, we can shape a brighter future for the Lone Star State.” "We eagerly embrace the survey's results, underlining the imperative for businesses to actively participate in shaping public policy. It's crucial to bolster Texas' economic competitiveness. Businesses seek steadfastness and predictability, craving a stable and politically certain environment to thrive and invest.” said Chris Wallace, president and CEO of North Texas Commission . ### About the Texas Business Leader Alliance The Texas Business Leader Alliance is a collaborative that provides a platform for business leaders to actively shape our state's economic future through civic engagement. Recognizing that business success and community well-being are intrinsically linked, the Texas Business Leader Alliance connects private sector, government, and community stakeholders to work on solutions to our state’s challenges. For more information, visit txbizleaderalliance.org