Texas is a magnet for foreign direct investment (FDI), thanks to its business-friendly tax environment, vast workforce, and strategic location at the heart of North America. No other state in the U.S. attracts as much international investment.
Temple stands out as an especially appealing destination within Texas. With access to four major metro areas, robust connectivity via highways and railways, and a growing, diverse workforce, it’s a prime spot for businesses looking to establish a presence in the Lone Star State.
Transportation Infrastructure and Access to Major Texas Metro Areas
Temple’s origins as a railroad town set the stage for its enduring growth. Named after a Santa Fe Railroad official, the city’s development has always been closely tied to its transportation infrastructure.
Today, Temple’s multiple railways and proximity to major highways connecting Central Texas to the rest of the U.S. and Mexico make it an incredibly well-connected hub. Located along the I-35 corridor and within 200 miles of Houston, Dallas–Fort Worth, Austin, and San Antonio, Temple has cemented its status as a bustling transportation, distribution, and logistics center. This central location is a significant draw for manufacturing companies that can efficiently serve partners across Texas.
A testament to this strategic advantage is South Korea’s SeAH Superalloy Technologies, which recently announced plans to build a high-performance metal manufacturing facility in Temple. As a key supplier in the aerospace, power generation, automotive, and oil and gas industries, SeAH will be ideally positioned to support business across Texas.
Investments in nearby cities often spark further investment in regions like Temple. For instance, Samsung’s multibillion-dollar investments in Austin and Taylor, Texas, led to suppliers setting up operations in adjacent cities like Bastrop and Round Rock. As more companies invest and expand in Texas, Temple is poised to capitalize on its geographical and infrastructural strengths.
A Skilled, Diverse, and Growing Workforce
Recent Census data highlights Temple as the fastest-growing city in Central Texas. From 2020 to 2023, Temple’s population grew by over 10,000 people, a 12 percent increase. With its affordable living costs and small-town charm coupled with the perks of nearby big cities, Temple is an attractive relocation destination. The presence of eight higher education institutions within 80 miles ensures a steady stream of educated candidates and opportunities for ongoing education.
Bell County, where Temple is located, ranks as the 5th most diverse county in Texas, offering a rich talent pool for employers. Diversity in cultural and professional backgrounds within a company can drive creativity and innovation, improve employee engagement, retention, and overall performance.
Moreover, with Fort Cavazos nearby, veterans make up over 18% of Bell County’s population—almost three times the rate of the rest of Texas and the United States. Employing veterans offers businesses federal tax benefits through the Work Opportunity Tax Credit program, along with highly trainable, adaptable, and reliable workers.
Benefits of Foreign Investment on the Local Economy
Temple offers international companies an excellent environment for expansion, and the local economy stands to gain significantly from foreign investment.
Foreign investment creates jobs, both directly and indirectly, through contracts with companies involved in facility construction, infrastructure expansion, and service provision. It also promotes workforce development by offering on-the-job training and exposure to new industries.
Additionally, foreign investment diversifies a city’s economy, enhancing resilience and fostering competition that benefits all. It opens doors for existing companies to new markets and business opportunities with firms that might not have had a presence otherwise.
While Texas boasts top-tier trade infrastructure, growing cities like Temple need continuous improvements to support population growth and industry expansion. Capital influx from foreign investments can fund projects that enhance the quality of life and drive further infrastructure upgrades.
Learn more about foreign direct investment in Texas, and contact us to explore opportunities for expanding your business in Temple.