Seguin Economic Development Corporation Celebrates 30th Anniversary and 12th Annual Business Appreciation luncheon

SEGUIN, TX – The Seguin Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) proudly hosted its 12th Annual Business Appreciation Luncheon and 30^th Anniversary celebration on Thursday, October 3, 2024, to extend its gratitude to the local business community and honor outstanding achievements in driving economic growth and fostering community partnerships.

The SEDC remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing Seguin’s economic climate. Recognizing the pivotal role local businesses play in the city's progress, the SEDC values its partnerships with these enterprises as essential to achieving collective goals. “A key element in the success of economic development is a culture that creates opportunities for new businesses and nurtures sustained business excellence for existing ones. SEDC is proud to honor a few of those businesses each year that are a “REAL” part of that culture by recognizing their outstanding achievements," said Carlos Moreno, President of the SEDC Board.

The 12th Annual Business Appreciation Luncheon, held at the Seguin Coliseum, was a resounding success. The event featured various highlights, including the Small Business Pop Up Shop Segment, which showcased the vibrancy and diversity of local entrepreneurs. The luncheon also featured the esteemed keynote speaker, Texas State Technical College, Senior Vice Chancellor and Chief Marketing Officer, Michael Bettersworth, who inspired attendees with his insights into the state of the workforce in Texas with announcements of new campus openings across Texas. 

Catering by Burnt Bean Co., provided a delightful culinary experience for all attendees, complementing the event’s networking opportunities and fostering new connections within the local business community.

The luncheon culminated with the prestigious awards ceremony, celebrating the achievements and contributions of exemplary local businesses and individuals. This year’s award recipients included:

• Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club, Workforce Champion Award: Founded in 2023, the Seguin Construction Trades Booster Club supports the construction trades program at Seguin High School, where 71% of students are economically disadvantaged. This initiative, led by local professionals in collaboration with instructor Jason Rice, focuses on enhancing educational opportunities by providing both technical skills training and encouraging civic engagement to students enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Program.  
• Maruichi Stainless Tub Texas Corporation, Economic Impact Award: Maruichi broke ground on a 153,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located on 8th Street in the Rio Nogales Industrial Park. Construction was completed in the spring of 2024, and the company has since begun ramping up operations. This project represents a $75 million capital investment and will create at least 106 high-wage jobs over the next few years. 
• Chris Larson, Community Impact Award: Through his work at Blue Horizon Media, Chris Larson has created a platform that fosters community connection and positivity. His company highlights the best of Seguin, while his personal commitment to supporting his neighbors demonstrates a deep desire to see others succeed.

"We are grateful for the invaluable contributions our local businesses make to the City of Seguin. The annual Business Appreciation Luncheon hosted by the SEDC is not just a mere event; it symbolizes our profound gratitude to the entire local business community,” said Josh Schneuker, Executive Director of the SEDC. “We're thrilled to celebrate and recognize the incredible achievements and dedication of these three awesome individuals and businesses. They've made such a positive impact on Seguin over the past year, and we couldn't be more proud to have them as part of our community.”

The Seguin Economic Development Corporation acknowledges the vital role local businesses play in the community’s progress—whether by providing quality jobs, fostering a diversified tax base, or contributing to outstanding community service. The SEDC congratulates all the award recipients and looks forward to many more years of fruitful partnerships. For more information about the Seguin Economic Development Corporation and its initiatives, please visit www.seguinedc.com

About Seguin Economic Development Corporation (SEDC)

 The Seguin Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) was created in 1994 as a type “4A” Corporation to market Seguin as a premier location for new business investments and job creation. The SEDC drives economic growth by attracting new businesses, supporting existing ones, and fostering a thriving business environment in Seguin, Texas. 

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