Women powering economic development in South Texas, northern Mexico meet in McAllen to chart regional growth

Women from across South Texas and northern Mexico gathered in McAllen for a summit focused on advancing cross-border economic development and strengthening regional collaboration.

The annual Mujeres Líderes Binacionales – Leads North America Summit brought together business executives, public officials, site-selection specialists, and foreign-trade leaders whose work shapes investment, manufacturing, and supply-chain decisions across the U.S.-Mexico border. 

Now in its fourth year, the binational initiative has become a platform for elevating women leading key sectors tied to the region’s economic growth.

Texas and women’s leadership

Dr. Valerie Segovia, vice president of investor relations at the Texas Economic Development Corporation, opened the summit’s perspective on statewide competitiveness and the growing influence of women in high-impact sectors including real estate, site selection, education, accounting, and economic development.

“In most populations, women represent more than 50% of the community. Why wouldn’t they lead? When women don’t participate, we all lose,” she said.

Segovia pointed to the state’s sustained momentum in emerging industries and global recruitment. 

“Texas sells itself,” she said, citing economic strength, human talent, and ongoing statewide efforts to attract new investment in high-tech and artificial intelligence.

She emphasized that collaboration is essential for long-term competitiveness. 

“Sustaining and growing the economy requires everyone’s work. The women gathered here bring essential expertise in each of their fields.” 

Segovia also noted the value of precision and detail in negotiations and investment proposals—qualities she said she frequently observes among professional women.

A regional view from McAllen

McAllen Mayor Javier Villalobos welcomed attendees and connected the summit to the Valley’s role in binational commerce. He told the audience that the city’s growth — and the region’s — depends on collaborative economic strategies spanning both sides of the Rio Grande.

“McAllen has always been a place for business, but today we think beyond the city; we think about the entire Rio Grande Valley and Mexico, because that is where the opportunities are,” he said.

Villalobos told attendees business is for the bold. 

“It’s for everyone who wants to invest and take intelligent risks,” he said. “Business is not reserved for men. Ladies, damas, welcome to America.”

Binational perspectives on industry shifts

Speakers throughout the day represented energy, advanced manufacturing, site selection, municipal economic development, and international business. 

Discussions centered on nearshoring, supply-chain realignment, and the rising demand for coordinated regional strategies as both South Texas and northern Mexico compete for new industry and expanded investment.

Panelists highlighted the expanding number of women leading negotiations, managing complex industrial projects, and shaping long-term planning across the region. 

Their work, they said, is directly influencing how Texas and northern Mexico prepare for the next phase of economic growth.