Strategic partnership aims to support Korean businesses and boost regional economic growth
Texasn K-Business, Texasn K-town News, Texasn 텍사스 경제
안미향 기자 amiangs0210@gmail.com
AUSTIN, Texas — The Williamson County Economic Development Department and the Korean American Chamber of Commerce of Austin (KACCA) have formed a strategic partnership to strengthen economic ties and attract Korean businesses to Central Texas.
The two organizations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 25 at the Williamson County Administration Building, formalizing their collaboration to support Korean enterprises and stimulate regional economic growth.
The agreement focuses on two key priorities: expanding networks and attracting businesses. Under the partnership, Williamson County will leverage KACCA as a gateway for Korean companies entering the region, while KACCA will work to strengthen connections between Korean businesses and the local economic ecosystem.
Dave Porter, Director of Williamson County Economic Development, emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating, “Supporting the growth of KACCA and helping more Korean companies expand into Central Texas are key objectives for us. Increased business investment will have a positive ripple effect across the entire regional economy.”
KACCA also underscored its commitment to moving beyond the broader Asian chamber framework and establishing itself as a dedicated hub and entry point for Korean businesses.
The MOU outlines four main areas of cooperation: economic development, access to resources, trade and investment expansion, and cultural and community engagement. A key focus will be building an information-sharing system to help Korean businesses more easily access county procurement programs and support policies.
To ensure practical implementation, both parties will designate dedicated points of contact and hold at least two regular meetings annually. They also agreed to pursue concrete joint initiatives, including hosting a large-scale year-end gala event that will bring together Korean companies, local suppliers, policymakers, and economic development stakeholders.
Additional collaborative efforts include sponsorship and support for KACCA-led events during South by Southwest (SXSW), as well as the establishment of regular luncheon meetings involving regional leaders and public sector representatives.
Expanding global networks is another major priority. The two organizations are considering forming a joint delegation to attend the World Korean Business Convention, scheduled to take place in Incheon, South Korea, from September 28 to 30. The goal is to facilitate direct investment discussions and broaden business opportunities with Korean companies.
They are also exploring quarterly joint meetings between the Williamson County Economic Development Board and the KACCA Board, potentially rotating across major cities in the county, including Pflugerville.
Porter noted, “The county has already invested significant resources into strengthening economic ties with Korea. Through this partnership with KACCA, we can build a more structured and sustainable collaboration.”
KACCA representatives added, “This agreement marks an important step toward positioning Korean businesses as a key pillar of the regional economy. We will focus on delivering tangible results that our members can truly benefit from.”
The MOU will remain in effect for three years and may be extended upon mutual agreement. Both sides plan to further develop detailed implementation strategies through follow-up discussions.
