Texas Governor Greg Abbott has selected Arun Agarwal, a Dallas-based Indian-American entrepreneur, to lead the Texas Economic Development Corporation (TEDC) as its chairman. This organization, a vital collaboration between the public and private sectors, works closely with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism to promote Texas as the premier destination for business within the United States and internationally. The Governor’s office emphasized that Agarwal’s appointment reflects Texas’s dedication to embracing diversity and acknowledges the rising influence of Indian American leaders in significant economic positions.
Agarwal’s vast experience in business, philanthropy, and global relations is expected to further bolster Texas’s reputation as a leading economic force. As CEO of Nextt, he manages a diverse range of ventures, including textiles, real estate, cotton trading, and sports management. Additionally, Agarwal holds the position of chairman for the National Cricket League (NCL) in the USA, a rapidly emerging initiative. His leadership extends to several other roles, such as co-chair of the Indian American CEO Council, President of the Dallas Parks and Recreation Board, and board memberships with esteemed organizations like the US India Friendship Council, the University of Texas executive board, Texas Tech Innovation HUB, and the MD Anderson Board of Visitors.
Agarwal’s academic background is equally impressive, with an MBA from IMT Ghaziabad, a Master’s in computer information systems from Southern New Hampshire University, and an advanced certificate in International Business from Harvard University.
Upon his appointment as Chairman of the TEDC Board of Directors, Agarwal expressed his gratitude and enthusiasm, stating, “I am honored to take on this role and drive forward Texas’s ambitious economic goals. I look forward to leveraging our state’s diverse talent and global connections to drive economic growth and enhance Texas’s prominence on the world stage.” Recently, Agarwal successfully led a delegation to India alongside Governor Abbott, strengthening economic ties between Texas and India. In his new position, Agarwal will be instrumental in advancing Governor Abbott’s vision of establishing Texas as a global economic powerhouse.
