Texas business leaders launch organization to strengthen civic engagement and economic growth

December 3, 2024

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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Janel Knight Trulear
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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:


“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.


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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 

Record-Breaking Texas Primary Turnout is a Positive Sign for the Texas Business Community

March 12, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Media Contact Becker Kaufman Becker@emccommunications.com Record-Breaking Texas Primary Turnout is a Positive Sign for the Texas Business Community Statement by Texas Business Leader Alliance Senior Advisor Sharon Jones on record primary election turnout in Texas, and why it's a positive sign for for the Texas business community March 9, 2026 – "Last Tuesday's record-breaking primary turnout in Texas is exactly the kind of civic participation business leaders should encourage. When more Texans show up at the ballot box, it strengthens the system that underpins everything our businesses rely on: stable governance, representative outcomes, and public trust in institutions. "More than 4.29 million voters cast ballots in last Tuesday's primary, the highest primary turnout in the state's history. For a state that has long ranked near the bottom nationally in voter participation, this is a moment worth recognizing. "Texas has a voter participation problem . In the 2024 primary, only 18% of registered voters showed up, and five out of six eligible Texans stayed home. For a state that leads the nation in job creation, business formation, and economic growth, that kind of civic disengagement is unacceptable. "Tuesday's results suggest Texans are beginning to close the gap. Roughly 24% of registered voters participated, up from 18% in the last primary cycle. Turnout surged in counties across the state, from major metro areas to rural communities. This type of civic engagement and commitment undoubtedly strengthens our democracy and our business ecosystem. "A 2024 survey of Texas business leaders conducted by the Texas Business Leader Alliance found that 91% agree a strong democracy where everyone can participate is crucial to a vibrant economy. Nearly 97% say it is important for business leaders to be involved in public policy discussions. Tuesday showed that when Texans engage, Texas leads. And when the business community encourages participation, it strengthens the civic infrastructure our economy depends on. “Recognizing this, the Texas Business Leader Alliance actively participated in efforts to boost civic engagement and voter turnout statewide. In the weeks leading up to the primary, we provided chambers of commerce and business networks across the state with nonpartisan toolkits, organized roundtables discussing the importance of primaries for the business community, and mobilized business leaders to encourage voting among their employees and peers. "This is not about any one party, candidate, or race. Higher participation produces better outcomes for everyone. "We applaud every Texan who showed up on Tuesday. And we encourage the business community to keep this momentum going, through the May runoffs, through November, and beyond. Texas has always kept score. Now we're finally competing where it counts." To request an interview with Texas Business Leader Alliance’s Senior Advisor Sharon Jones, contact Becker Kaufman at Becker@emccommunications.com ### 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