Austin, November 26, 2025
Texas Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Eric Andresen and Crystal Long to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board. Their appointments aim to enhance the state’s efforts to attract and retain businesses, supporting the ongoing economic growth and innovation in Texas. With diverse backgrounds in sales and financial services, both appointees are expected to contribute significantly to fostering a business-friendly environment, which is crucial as Texas continues to embrace entrepreneurship and investment.
Austin, Texas – Texas Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Eric Andresen and Crystal Long to the Texas Economic Development Corporation (EDC) Board of Directors. Their appointments are designed to enhance Texas’s comprehensive efforts to attract and retain businesses, an initiative that reflects the state’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and innovation.
With Texas experiencing robust economic expansion, the addition of Andresen and Long to the EDC signifies a strategic move to bolster the state’s appeal as a prime hub for entrepreneurship and investment. Both appointees bring diverse experiences and a strong commitment to community and economic development. These advancements are crucial as Texas continues to embrace a business-friendly climate, fostering resilience among local enterprises and encouraging innovative practices.
Meet the New Appointees
Eric Andresen, based in Austin, currently serves as the Sales Development Manager at Loop Payments, Inc. With previous experience as the Sales Manager at AeroFarms, he holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy and History from Duke University. His expertise in sales and management positions him well to contribute significantly to the EDC’s mission of promoting Texas as a business-friendly state.
Crystal Long hails from El Paso and currently serves as the President and CEO of GECU. She has an extensive background in financial services and community involvement, notably through her work with the Governmental Affairs Committee for the Cornerstone League and her role on the Board of Trustees for the TruStage Retirement Plan. Long earned an Executive Master of Business Administration from The University of Texas at El Paso, enhancing her leadership capabilities within the organization.
Responsibilities of the Texas EDC
The Texas Economic Development Corporation is a private entity that collaborates with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism. Its primary responsibility is to promote Texas as an attractive destination for businesses. This is achieved through strategic partnerships and initiatives aimed at improving the state’s economic landscape and supporting the growth of small businesses and startups.
Leadership Within the Texas EDC Board
The EDC Board of Directors is comprised of leaders from various sectors, including Adrian Cannady, who serves as Chair and is the President of the Temple Economic Development Corporation, and Misty Mayo, the Incoming Board Chair and CEO of the Development Corporation of Abilene. Their diverse backgrounds and experiences will guide the EDC in implementing its strategies effectively.
Role of the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC)
The Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC) operates under the governance of a 30-member board and an 8-member Executive Committee. As the largest state economic development association in the nation, TEDC offers information, education, and legislative support to its over 1,000 members. Their primary objective is to facilitate the growth of existing businesses, attract new firms, and develop strategies that cultivate a positive business environment in Texas.
Implications for Economic Development in Texas
The strategic appointments of Andresen and Long bring fresh perspectives to the EDC Board, reflecting a proactive approach to addressing the competing demands of economic growth. Their contributions will likely influence initiatives geared towards enhancing Texas’s attractiveness for new businesses and supporting initiatives that reduce regulatory burdens on entrepreneurs. In a state known for its entrepreneurial spirit, the EDC’s focus on limited regulation and private investment is pivotal for sustainable economic growth.
In conclusion, the appointments of Eric Andresen and Crystal Long to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors mark an important step in advancing Texas’s economic initiatives. With a continued focus on fostering innovation, supporting local businesses, and promoting collaboration, Texas is poised to enhance its standing as a leading destination for entrepreneurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the new appointees to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors?
Governor Greg Abbott appointed Eric Andresen and Crystal Long to the Texas Economic Development Corporation Board of Directors. Their terms are set to expire at the pleasure of the Governor.
What is the role of the Texas Economic Development Corporation?
The Texas Economic Development Corporation is a private entity collaborating with the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and Tourism to promote Texas as a prime destination for business.
Who are some other members of the Texas EDC Board of Directors?
Other members include Adrian Cannady, President of the Temple Economic Development Corporation, serving as Chair, and Misty Mayo, CEO of the Development Corporation of Abilene, serving as the Incoming Board Chair.
What is the Texas Economic Development Council (TEDC)?
The Texas Economic Development Council is governed by a 30-member board and an 8-member Executive Committee. The TEDC provides information, education, and legislative services to its members to foster the expansion of existing businesses, the location of new firms, and the development of strategies that promote a positive business climate in Texas. With more than 1,000 members, the TEDC is the largest state economic development association in the nation.
| Appointee | Position | Affiliation | Term Expiration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eric Andresen | Sales Development Manager | Loop Payments, Inc. | At the pleasure of the Governor |
| Crystal Long | President and CEO | GECU | At the pleasure of the Governor |
| Adrian Cannady | President | Temple Economic Development Corporation | October 2027 |
| Misty Mayo | CEO | Development Corporation of Abilene | October 2028 |
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