News Summary
San Antonio hosted a special celebration honoring key figures in economic growth for South Texas. The event highlighted the achievements of Teclo Garcia, CEO of the Mission Economic Development Corporation, and other leaders dedicated to regional innovation. Their collective efforts and commitment to enhancing small business support and cross-border trade were recognized as vital to the area’s economic landscape. The event also served as a networking opportunity for attendees, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for future progress in the Rio Grande Valley.
Texas
Teclo Garcia, the CEO of the Mission Economic Development Corporation, was honored on June 25, 2025, as one of the 2025 South Texas Power Players during a private reception held at the Centre Club in downtown San Antonio. This recognition celebrates key contributions from leading figures in South Texas who significantly enhance the region’s growth and innovation.
The event brought together top business, civic, and nonprofit leaders, highlighting their impact on the regional economy. Garcia received this honor for his exemplary leadership in promoting cross-border trade, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving economic development initiatives in both Mission and the broader Rio Grande Valley (RGV).
Under Garcia’s guidance, the Mission Economic Development Corporation has focused its efforts on supporting small businesses, organizing investment tours, and planning essential infrastructure improvements. These initiatives have strengthened Mission’s position as a rapidly emerging player in the state’s economic landscape, underscoring the community’s potential for future growth.
Social media posts from the Mission EDC emphasized teamwork as the foundation for regional progress, reinforcing a collective commitment to the community with the message, “Mission is ALL IN.” This highlights the organization’s strategic approach in advancing local economic interests through collaboration.
Among the other distinguished honorees were well-respected figures such as former San Antonio Mayor Henry Cisneros, CEO of the Port of Brownsville William Dietrich, and Juan Francisco Ochoa, the founder of Taco Palenque. These individuals, alongside Garcia, represent a variety of sectors, including economic development, education, healthcare, finance, real estate, and public service, demonstrating the breadth of talent and leadership driving South Texas forward.
The event, hosted by the San Antonio Business Journal, featured a cocktail reception format designed to celebrate the honorees in an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to network while acknowledging their accomplishments. Garcia’s recognition not only honors his contributions but also signifies a growing acknowledgment of the Rio Grande Valley’s crucial role in shaping Texas’ economic future.
Background Context
Teclo Garcia has served as CEO of the Mission Economic Development Corporation (EDC) since 2014, advocating for strategies that bolster local businesses and attract investments to the region. The Mission EDC aims to create economic opportunities while enhancing the community’s quality of life through collaborative efforts with local stakeholders and businesses.
The importance of cross-border trade has increased in recent years, especially with growing economic ties to Mexico. Garcia’s leadership has seen the Mission EDC leverage these relationships to enhance trade efficiencies and improve economic prospects for businesses in the RGV.
The accomplishments of Garcia and his fellow honorees illustrate an enduring commitment to driving progress in South Texas through innovative approaches and leadership. As regions like the Rio Grande Valley continue to evolve, such recognition helps spotlight the significant regional advancements that are vital to the overall economic health of Texas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Texas Border Business: Teclo Garcia Among South Texas Power Players
- ESPN: Women’s College Basketball Power Rankings
- Spectrum Local News: Power Players – Rep. James Talarico
- Caller: Meet the Players on the 2024 All South Texas Girls Basketball Team
- Chron: Powering Texas: Coal, Solar, and Battery
- Wikipedia: San Antonio
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas
- Google Search: South Texas Economic Development
- Google News: Teclo Garcia
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
