The San Antonio Economic and Workforce Development Committee convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss key insights from the city’s economic performance dashboard, focusing on veteran-owned businesses and the sustainable energy sector.

A significant highlight from the meeting was the revelation that approximately 10% of businesses in San Antonio are veteran-owned. This statistic aligns closely with the local veteran population, which stands at about 8%, surpassing both state and national averages. The committee emphasized the importance of supporting veteran entrepreneurs as part of the broader economic strategy, showcasing the contributions these businesses make to the community.

In addition to veteran business ownership, the committee explored the role of sustainable energy as a strategic industry cluster in San Antonio. While the city has around 1,000 businesses in this sector, they employ approximately 30,000 individuals, representing about 3% of the local workforce. This employment figure indicates that the sustainable energy sector, despite its relatively small number of businesses, plays a crucial role in the local economy.

The committee also noted that sustainable energy contributes significantly to the region's gross domestic product (GDP), bringing in approximately $11 billion, which accounts for over 6% of San Antonio's overall GDP. This underscores the sector's importance not only in terms of employment but also in driving economic growth.

The discussions highlighted the need for continued investment in both veteran-owned businesses and sustainable energy initiatives, as these areas are vital for fostering economic resilience and supporting community development. The committee plans to further analyze these sectors to enhance support and resources for local businesses, ensuring that San Antonio remains a vibrant and inclusive economic hub.