25 reasons to believe in Texas’ future
This is a preview of our Texas 2036 newsletter with 25 reasons to believe in the future of Texas. To receive this weekly look at our work, sign up here.
25 Reasons to Believe in Texas’ Future
Texans have long understood that the future is not something we wait for, but something we shape. Progress comes from deliberate choices to build, invest and show up for one another.
At Texas 2036, we focus on the data and long-term decisions that turn momentum into lasting opportunity for more Texans.
As 2025 comes to a close, here are 25 facts showing a Texas that is growing, building and preparing for what comes next.
I. A Strong Economy, Built by Texans
Texas’ economic strength is driven by people, businesses and communities across the state.
1. Texas helps power the global economy.
2. Texas is growing, powered by families and young people.
3. Texans believe they can find opportunity and good jobs in Texas.
4. More people are choosing Texas as a place to build their lives.
5. Businesses keep choosing Texas to grow and expand.
6. Texas boasts one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing workforces.
7. Small businesses and entrepreneurs keep Texas moving forward.
8. Texas agriculture feeds families and sustains rural communities.
9. Texans invest in their communities with time, talent and resources.
Want to learn more? We explain how each key takeaway impacts Texas.
II. Preparing Texans for the Future
Texas is investing in our people from early learning to research universities.
10. Texas made a historic investment in students, teachers and schools.
11. Students are showing real progress in reading.
12. Texas is giving students a head start on college.
13. Community colleges are creating more opportunities close to home.
14. More Texans are earning degrees and credentials that lead to work.
15. Texas universities help turn research into real-world jobs.
Want to learn more? We dive in on these key takeaways and how they prepare Texas’ future.
III. Progress Made for Our Future
Texans are making long-term investments that will shape the state for generations.
16. Texans voted to safeguard the state’s long-term water supply.
17. Texas is expanding energy capacity and markets for a growing state.
18. Texas is building more homes for a growing population.
19. Many Texans continue to have access to affordable health coverage.
20. Texas is making major investments to keep people and goods moving.
21. Texas is strengthening its position as a place to do business.
22. Texas is modernizing its regulatory environment.
23. Voter investments are giving Texans more access to state parks.
24. Texas is preparing for the jobs of the future: Chips, AI and Cyber.
25. Texas is building on its leadership in space.
Want to learn more? Explore how these takeaways are making progress for Texas.
What Comes Next: 2026 and Beyond
This year reminded us that progress in Texas is not guaranteed. It comes from people showing up, making hard choices and keeping the long view in mind.
None of this was inevitable. Voters, business leaders and policymakers made decisions this year that will shape Texas long after the headlines fade.
As Texas moves ahead, growth alone is not enough. The work is to ensure opportunity lasts and reaches more people in more places. As we look toward 2026, we wish you a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.