Orange County Economic Development Corporation

05/14/2026

Here we GROW again! USG Corporation is growing in Orange County with a new production at the former International Paper Mill Site to create $1.175 billion in capital investment and nearly 200 jobs over the life of the project. A huge win for Orange County, The City of Orange, Texas - Government, and Little Cypress-Mauriceville CISD Check out the press release from the Office of the Governor Texas Economic Development and Tourism Office: https://bit.ly/4tvYYMT

Texas is where companies build bigger! USG Corporation is growing in Texas with a new production facility in Orange expected to create $1.175 billion in capital investment and nearly 200 jobs over the life of the project. More here: https://bit.ly/4tvYYMT

05/11/2026

As we celebrated Small Business Week last week, we extend a special thank you to Congressman Randy Weber and representative Blake Hopper for partnering with Dana Espinal and the outstanding staff at Lamar State College-Port Arthur SBDC to recognize the Chambers of Commerce and Economic Development Corporations throughout our Southeast Texas service area.

This recognition highlights the importance of collaboration in supporting the small businesses, entrepreneurs, and industries that serve as the backbone of our local economy. Through strong partnerships between community organizations, educational institutions, elected officials, and economic development leaders, we continue working together to create opportunities for growth, strengthen our workforce, attract investment, and support the success of businesses across Southeast Texas.

Small businesses are the driving force behind innovation, job creation, and community development, and we are proud to stand alongside those who are committed to helping them succeed. Thank you to everyone who plays a role in moving Southeast Texas forward and building a stronger, more prosperous future for our region.

Lamar State College-Port Arthur SBDC
Congressman Randy Weber

05/08/2026

THE FRIDAY FRUIT edition 05_09_26 Your link to all things in the Orange County Economic Development world here every Friday!

As we celebrate National Economic Development Week, Small Business Week, and Travel & Tourism Week, the Orange County Economic Development Corporation was proud to host our recent Economic Development Luncheon bringing together business leaders, community partners, elected officials, educators, and entrepreneurs focused on the continued growth and success of Orange County, Texas.

The luncheon highlighted the importance of collaboration in strengthening our local economy, supporting workforce development, expanding opportunities for small businesses, and promoting Orange County as a great place to live, work, visit, and invest.

A special thank you to all of our speakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees who helped make the event a success. We also extend our appreciation to the many small businesses that have chosen Orange County to start, grow, and invest in their future. Your commitment plays a vital role in creating jobs, supporting families, and driving economic prosperity throughout our community.

Congratulations to Port of Orange and Innovative Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing for receiving awards recognizing your outstanding contributions in Economic Development for Orange County, Texas.

Together, we continue building a stronger Orange County.

Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce
Bridge City Chamber
Vidor Chamber of Commerce
City of Orange, Texas - Government
City Of Vidor, Texas - City Hall
City of Bridge City
City of Pinehurst, Texas
City of West Orange, Texas
Lamar State College-Port Arthur SBDC
Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas
Lamar State College Orange
Orangefield Independent School District
Retail Strategies
Texas Economic Development
Innovative Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing

05/07/2026

Huge thanks to all who attended and participated in this year's Economic Development Week Luncheon! Please enjoy these photos from the event, courtesy of Kimberly Manning Images. 🍊

05/06/2026

As we recognize Economic Development Week, we were proud to host our OCEDC luncheon yesterday it was a tremendous success, bringing together community leaders, business professionals, and partners committed to strengthening the future of our local economy. The event provided valuable insight, meaningful dialogue, and a shared vision for continued growth in Orange County.

We extend our sincere appreciation to our outstanding speakers who made the day both informative and impactful. Larry McManus, Director of Business & Community Development with the Economic Development & Tourism Office of the Governor, delivered key statewide perspectives and opportunities for growth. Tyler Sudderth, Director of Community Partnerships with Retail Strategies, offered valuable expertise on retail trends and strategies for attracting and supporting new development. Judge John Gothia provided strong local leadership insight and reinforced the importance of collaboration across our region.

Being also Small Business Week a special thank you goes to Dana Espinal, Director of the SBDC at Lamar State College Port Arthur, for leading an engaging and informative small business panel. Her leadership, along with the panelists -David Jones Gopher Industrial- Heath Sheppard Lava Java-Eric Andrus COS Printing, highlighted the critical role small businesses play in driving our local economy.

We also extend our appreciation to Old Orange Café for providing a delicious meal that everyone enjoyed it was the perfect complement to a great day of connection and conversation.

We are grateful to all who attended and contributed to the success of this event. Together, we continue building momentum for a stronger, more vibrant Orange County.

Video Credit Thanks to Kimberly Manning Images







City of West Orange, Texas
City of Orange, Texas - Government
City of Pinehurst, Texas
City Of Vidor, Texas - City Hall
City of Bridge City
Lamar State College Orange
Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce
Orangefield Independent School District
Lamar State College-Port Arthur SBDC
Texas Economic Development
Retail Strategies
Gopher Industrial, Inc
Lava Java Texas
COS Printing
Old Orange Cafe & Catering Co.

05/01/2026

THE FRIDAY FRUIT edition 05_02_26 Your link to all things in the Orange County Economic Development world. Stay connected here every FRIDAY!

Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce
Bridge City Chamber
Vidor Chamber of Commerce
City of Orange, Texas - Government
City of Bridge City
City Of Vidor, Texas - City Hall
City of Pinehurst, Texas
City of West Orange, Texas
Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas

04/29/2026

Looking for work? Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas is the place to be!

Tomorrow Thursday 4/30 10am to 1pm at the Orange location, several employers will be on-site and ready to meet with job seekers. This is a great opportunity to connect face-to-face, explore available positions, and take the next step toward your future.

Don’t miss your chance to make a great impression and possibly land your next career opportunity!

04/27/2026

TUESDAY, MAY 5th — FINAL CALL TO REGISTER

🚨 Only A Few Spots Left – Secure Your Seat Now! 🚨

🌟 You’re Invited! 🌟
Join us for the Orange County EDC Economic Development Luncheon on May 5th—a high-impact gathering of leaders, innovators, and community champions shaping the future of our local economy. Only a handful of seats remain!

📍 Location: Orange County Expo Center
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

Get ready for powerful insights and meaningful conversation featuring:

🎤 Larry McManus
Director of Business & Community Development
Economic Development & Tourism Office of the Governor

🎤 Tyler Sudderth
Director of Community Partnerships, Retail Strategies

🎤 Judge John Gothia
Orange County Judge

💼 Small Business Panel
Led by Dana Espinal, Director of the SBDC at Lamar State College Port Arthur

From retail development and business growth to emerging opportunities across Orange County, this is the conversation you don’t want to miss.

🤝 Connect with key local leaders
📈 Gain timely economic insights
💡 Be part of the momentum driving our community forward

⚠️ Don’t wait—this event is on the verge of selling out!

👉 Reserve your seat now before it’s gone!
✏️ FREE TO ATTEND But Must Register

04/24/2026

THE FRIDAY FRUIT edition 04_25_26 Your link to all things in the Orange County Economic Development World!

ORANGE COUNTY EDC ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT LUNCHEON:
TUESDAY MAY 5th.....Last Chance to Register
🚨 Limited Seats Remaining – Don’t Miss Out! 🚨
🌟 You’re Invited! 🌟
Join us for the Orange County EDC Economic Development Luncheon on May 5th—a high-impact gathering of leaders, innovators, and community champions shaping the future of our local economy. Seats are filling fast, and only a few remain!
📍 Location: Orange County Expo Center
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
This year’s luncheon delivers powerful insights and meaningful conversation, featuring:
🎤 Larry McManus
Director of Business & Community Development
Economic Development & Tourism Office of the Governor
🎤 Tyler Sudderth
Director of Community Partnerships, Retail Strategies
🎤 Judge John Gothia
Orange County Judge
💼 Small Business Panel
Led by Dana Espinal, Director of the SBDC at Lamar State College Port Arthur
From retail development and business growth to emerging opportunities across Orange County, this event offers the connections and insights you need—right now.
🤝 Network with key local leaders
📈 Gain timely economic insights
💡 Be part of the conversations driving growth in our community
⚠️ Act fast—seating is extremely limited and expected to sell out!
👉 Reserve your spot today before it’s too late!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1O5DfoBDq8k-uDLWjFD4ROBLRNDgj4UbqZs8Sn0wqpvY/viewform?ts=69d3bd51&edit_requested=true&fbclid=IwY2xjawRV1_5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExazhibUJUdTRlV2lKWm9Yc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpKK94BHtLFcCO00Df8LDy8NED3EPx16XVFZ1SfDxU0RTKiMoX8-Nj8Ky9WU_aem_X3i7OZQrkdj6N_zOe7OJfg

Greater Orange Area Chamber of Commerce
Vidor Chamber of Commerce
Bridge City Chamber
City of Orange, Texas - Government
City Of Vidor, Texas - City Hall
City Of Vidor, Texas - City Hall
City of Pinehurst, Texas
City of West Orange, Texas
Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center
Mauriceville Heritage Association
Workforce Solutions Southeast Texas

04/23/2026

Welcome Two Amigos to Vidor Tx Orange County!

The newest Mexican restaurant🎉

Visit them at
1465 North Main Street Vidor, TX

04/22/2026

🚨 Limited Seats Remaining – Don’t Miss Out! 🚨

🌟 You’re Invited! 🌟
Join us for the Orange County EDC Economic Development Luncheon on May 5th—a high-impact gathering of leaders, innovators, and community champions shaping the future of our local economy. Seats are filling fast, and only a few remain!

📍 Location: Orange County Expo Center
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

This year’s luncheon delivers powerful insights and meaningful conversation, featuring:

🎤 Larry McManus
Director of Business & Community Development
Economic Development & Tourism Office of the Governor

🎤 Tyler Sudderth
Director of Community Partnerships, Retail Strategies

🎤 Judge John Gothia
Orange County Judge

💼 Small Business Panel
Led by Dana Espinal, Director of the SBDC at Lamar State College Port Arthur

From retail development and business growth to emerging opportunities across Orange County, this event offers the connections and insights you need—right now.

🤝 Network with key local leaders
📈 Gain timely economic insights
💡 Be part of the conversations driving growth in our community

⚠️ Act fast—seating is extremely limited and expected to sell out!
👉 Reserve your spot today before it’s too late!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1O5DfoBDq8k-uDLWjFD4ROBLRNDgj4UbqZs8Sn0wqpvY/viewform?ts=69d3bd51&edit_requested=true&fbclid=IwY2xjawRV1_5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETExazhibUJUdTRlV2lKWm9Yc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHpKK94BHtLFcCO00Df8LDy8NED3EPx16XVFZ1SfDxU0RTKiMoX8-Nj8Ky9WU_aem_X3i7OZQrkdj6N_zOe7OJfg