The Denton Economic Development Partnership Board recently convened to address significant challenges and opportunities in attracting new businesses to the area. A key focus of the meeting was the city's ability to meet the demands of prospective companies, particularly in terms of utility infrastructure and environmental considerations.

During the discussion, it was revealed that two potential projects—Volt Burst, a battery manufacturer, and Saturn Rings, a semiconductor company—were unable to proceed due to Denton's insufficient wastewater capacity and power supply. Volt Burst required excessive wastewater capacity, while Saturn Rings needed 10 megawatts of power within three years, which the city could not provide without constructing a new substation. As a result, both companies opted to establish their operations in other cities.

In 2025, Denton received 80 Requests for Information (RFIs) from businesses, matching the total submitted for the previous year. The average investment associated with these RFIs exceeded $480 million, indicating a strong interest in the area. However, the city only converted six RFIs into actual projects, a number that, while modest, is still considered a success compared to other municipalities.

The board discussed several barriers to attracting new businesses, including limited heavy industrial zoned property and inadequate utility infrastructure. The city currently lacks the capacity to support larger companies requiring significant power and water resources. Additionally, environmental concerns regarding high-pollution industries and low-paying jobs were highlighted as factors influencing the city's response to RFIs.

Board members emphasized the need for a strategic approach to prioritize industries that align with Denton's community values and economic goals. They acknowledged the importance of understanding modern manufacturing processes, particularly in industries like battery production, which may have evolved significantly from past perceptions.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus on the necessity of enhancing the city’s infrastructure and developing a comprehensive database to streamline responses to future RFIs. This proactive approach aims to better position Denton as a competitive location for new businesses, ultimately benefiting the local economy and job market. The board plans to continue refining its strategies to ensure that Denton can effectively attract and support industries that contribute positively to the community.