South Texas Strong:
The Lone Star Cyber Forge will leverage the inherent strengths of the South Texas Region to position this area as the world leader in cybersecurity and secure manufacturing. The Cyber Forge is building the coalition across the San Antonio – New Braunfels Metropolitan Statistical Area as well as neighboring communities of Fredericksburg, Kerrville, Pearsall, and Uvalde.
A Culture of National Defense and Security
South Texas stands at the forefront of national security, boasting a robust military presence, cutting-edge cybersecurity leadership, and a deeply integrated defense industry ecosystem.
Strong Military Presence
- Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) – one of the largest military installations in the U.S.
- 16th Air Force (Air Forces Cyber) headquarters
- NSA Texas – cryptologic center
Cybersecurity leadership
- San Antonio dubbed “Cyber City USA”
- Home to numerous cybersecurity companies and startups
- National Security Collaboration Center (NSCC) at UTSA
Defense industry integration
- Large concentration of defense contractors and suppliers
- Robust ecosystem supporting military innovation and technology development
Diverse and Skilled Workforce
Our region’s unique blend of Hispanic heritage, veteran expertise, and world-class educational institutions creates a diverse, skilled workforce primed for innovation in cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing.
Growing Hispanic population
- Large pool of bilingual talent
- Cultural diversity enhancing innovation and global perspective
Strong veteran community
- Skilled workforce transitioning from military to civilian careers
- Expertise in cybersecurity, logistics, and advanced technologies
Educational institutions supporting workforce development
- University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) – nationally recognized cybersecurity program
- Alamo Colleges District – specialized training programs
- Public-private partnerships for continuous skill development
Thriving Manufacturing and Business Climate
South Texas offers a dynamic business environment where advanced manufacturing thrives, supported by a business-friendly climate, innovative research hubs, and a pervasive culture of cybersecurity readiness across all sectors.
Robust manufacturing ecosystem
- Diverse industries including aerospace, automotive, and biotechnology
- Advanced manufacturing initiatives and smart factory implementations
Business-friendly environment
- Low cost of living and doing business
- No state income tax
- Supportive local and state government policies
Innovation and research hubs
- Southwest Research Institute (SwRI)
- Texas Research & Technology Foundation (TRTF)
- Port San Antonio – technology and innovation campus
Cybersecurity readiness across sectors
- Integration of cybersecurity practices in manufacturing processes
- Collaboration between academia, industry, and government in cybersecurity research and application
- Growing number of cybersecurity startups and established firms
