Research and development are the cornerstones of any flourishing economy, leading to greater productivity and GDP. Abilene offers a strategic alternative to traditional Texas innovation hubs by combining university-driven talent, military-connected technical expertise, applied research partnerships and a lower-cost operating environment. Companies gain access to a skilled workforce and collaborative innovation network without the escalating labor costs, facility constraints and talent competition common in larger metropolitan markets.
Abilene’s call to innovate was further solidified when the city council approved DCOA’s “Project Future Hope,” a $2.93 million incentive partnership for Abilene Christian University’s NEXT Lab to expand research and development for advanced nuclear technology at a new facility.
Whether focused on product development, advanced technology, cybersecurity, defense innovation, energy systems, software development, testing, commercialization or more, companies find the resources needed to support innovation and long-term growth in Abilene, Texas.
Abilene’s industry network connects applied research with real-world challenges. By bringing together higher education, private industry, military assets and economic development partners, companies have opportunities to research, test, validate and commercialize new technologies in active operating environments.
Key industry sectors include:
