Manufacturing is thriving in Houston. From energy-related manufacturing to small-scale production and making, Houston’s manufacturers are harnessing the city’s innovation, technology, and educational resources to develop new products and businesses.

Manufacturing also creates critical opportunities for inclusive economic growth. Houston’s manufacturing sector provides accessible career pathways for job seekers and entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. Further, small, urban manufacturers (SUMs) can bring much-needed economic activity and jobs to communities. However, SUMs face unique growth challenges, including lack of affordable production space, business development incentives, and workforce development support. These issues will require creative, multi stakeholder solutions.

In 2018, TXRX Labs and other local organizations convened the Equitable Innovation Conference to discuss potential solutions, and this white paper is a result of those discussions. It provides insight into local challenges and opportunities for SUMs, and offers potential strategies – illustrated through local assets to build upon and national best practices to learn from – to grow Houston’s urban manufacturing sector.