
Rio South Texas Region: A Strategic Platform in the New Geography of Competitiveness
January 12, 2026
Manufacturing or Assembling in Rio South Texas Region is a Strategic Advantage
January 19, 2026The Global Business Hub in Pharr continues to strengthen its role as a strategic platform for innovation within the Rio South Texas Region with the launch of the STX Data & AI Network, a new regional initiative focused on technology, data, and artificial intelligence.
The network held its first official in-person meeting at the Global Business Hub, bringing together a diverse group of professionals committed to building long-term value for the Rio Grande Valley through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and applied innovation.
A Regional Convening Point for Emerging Technologies
By hosting the inaugural session of the STX Data & AI Network, the Global Business Hub reaffirmed its mission as a convening space where emerging technology communities can connect and collaborate.
With the support of the Pharr Economic Development Corporation and the City of Pharr, the meeting convened talent across software engineering, robotics, manufacturing, data science, analytics, education, design, and finance—disciplines that collectively shape the future of advanced industries in South Texas.
From Community to Structure
Discussions focused on establishing the network’s internal structure, defining communication channels, and outlining initial project ideas. Participants also explored how data and AI can be leveraged to support economic development, workforce growth, and innovation strategies aligned with regional priorities.
This marks an important transition from isolated efforts to a coordinated, cross-sector approach designed to generate practical outcomes for the region.
Building a Shared Resource for the Rio Grande Valley
The STX Data & AI Network is designed to evolve into a shared regional resource, one that enables collaboration across industries while ensuring that innovation remains grounded in local needs and opportunities.
Pharr’s leadership in hosting and supporting this initiative reflects a broader economic development strategy centered on aligning technology, talent, and long-term regional competitiveness.
Momentum for a Forward-Looking Ecosystem
The strong participation and engagement at the launch event signal growing momentum for a cohesive data and AI ecosystem in South Texas. With additional meetings planned, the network is expected to expand its reach and impact across the region.
Through initiatives like the STX Data & AI Network, Pharr continues to position the Global Business Hub as a platform where collaboration turns into capability, and where innovation becomes a driver of sustainable growth for the Rio South Texas Region.
If your company is evaluating expansion, nearshoring, or a strategic entry into the U.S. market, Rio South Texas Region offers more than location: it offers execution certainty.
Through Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP), investors gain a trusted regional partner that aligns site selection, workforce, infrastructure, incentives, and binational coordination into a single, clear pathway to operation.
From first analysis to long-term growth, COSTEP works alongside companies to reduce risk, accelerate timelines, and ensure a successful landing and expansion in one of North America’s most resilient industrial corridors.
Learn more at https://riosouthtexasregion.com/
Rio South Texas Region: One Region. Two Countries. One Future.




