Business Briefs Spring 2025
Volume 18, Number 1
Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership
Letter From the President Inside this issue: 2
Workforce Development Initiatives
3
Community Engagement
4
General Member ship Meetings
6
MARKETING
8
Preserving Future of Space Exploration
10 Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program
12
OUR PARTNERS
As I reflect on 2024, I am reminded of the ever-evolving nature of our region’s economy and the many opportunities that lie ahead. Last year was one of exciting advancements for the Bay Area. From the expansion of the Houston Spaceport, the Texas A&M Space Institute groundbreaking, and plans for expansion at Port Houston. We witnessed remarkable strides in positioning our region as a hub for technological innovation, infrastructure improvements, and economic development. This community continued to demonstrate its resilience and cooperative spirit throughout 2024. The Aerospace Industry is a major driving force for the Bay Area economy. We were honored to attend the groundbreaking event for the $200 million Texas A&M Space Institute, which will be a testbed for the unique conditions found on lunar and Martian surfaces. Equally important is the growth of a skilled workforce. Our partnerships with educational institutions across the region are stronger than ever. Together, we are working to ensure that local businesses have access to the talent they need to thrive, while also providing opportunities for individuals to advance their careers in highdemand fields. In 2024, the Space Alliance Technology Outreach Program (SATOP) celebrated 25 years of helping small businesses and entrepreneurs overcome product development challenges. Through a network of alliance partners, SATOP has experienced a period of incredible growth. SATOP’s expansion of Alliance Partners and Economic Development Organizations has increased its capacity to take on a record number of new projects in both the traditional 40-hour program and the University Capstone Design Program for the year. In addition to Texas A&M University, SATOP partnered with Texas A&M University at Galveston, University of Houston – Clear Lake, and Sam Hou-
Brian Freedman ston State University to take on additional projects as SATOP continues to expand to underserved regions across the state in 2025. Finally, innovation continues to be at the heart of BAHEP’s vision for the future. Whether through our work with NASA to further advance Exploration Park, or fostering the growth of emerging technologies, BAHEP is positioning our region at the forefront of aerospace development. I encourage you to stay engaged, by attending events, joining a committee, or simply reaching out to a fellow member. The strength of BAHEP is in the connections we foster and the partnerships we build.
Thank you again for your ongoing support. Sincerely,
Brian Freedman President Bay Area Houston Economic Partnership