The Downtown District's Economic Development Program works to continue revitalization in Downtown Houston through its emphasis on all real estate markets: office, retail, hospitality, residential, entertainment/tourism and new development. The Economic Development Program is a joint effort between the Downtown District and Central Houston, Inc., with the Downtown District providing a portion of the program's funding, research, published data and marketing materials.
The Economic Development Program focuses on the retention and recruitment of office tenants by working in collaboration with brokers, developers, and investors to influence key decision-makers and works closely with other District and Central Houston programs, especially transportation.
SERVE existing businesses
Create the most competitive economic base by proactively engaging existing businesses.
ATTRACT new businesses
Diversify Downtown’s employment and tax base by conveying the advantages of one the country’s most dynamic and diverse mixed-use urban centers.
FACILITATE the creation of a technology and innovation corridor in the Central City
Developed the 17,000 square foot Downtown Launchpad, anchored by nationally recognized startup accelerators MassChallenge, gener8tor, and globally recognized incubator Impact Hub which will enable startups and entrepreneurs to move seamlessly through the stages of startup production, all in one space.
PREPARE Downtown for the future
Become prepared for new growth and investment.
INCREASE investment
Partner with stakeholders to help influence investment and growth.
MARKET + PROMOTE Downtown globally
Become known as the most prestigious business address in Texas.
While highly publicized redevelopment initiatives are aimed at adding new uses and activities to Downtown, the office market remains the economic engine of Downtown. The program responsibilities include various other economic development initiatives such as:
Detailed services of the program include meeting with existing Downtown employers; working with potential Downtown tenants; working with those who are considering investing or already have invested in Downtown; providing Downtown overviews to investors, brokers, tenants and others; conducting office, transportation and other studies; gathering information on Downtown parking, hotels, office space, etc.; and providing content to the Resources section of Downtown's information portal to make resources available to as many others as possible.