Beginning with support from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) through the Build Back Better Regional Challenge (BBBRC), The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and the City of El Paso (COEP) jointly serve as implementing partners for the West Texas Aerospace and Defense Manufacturing Coalition. The Coalition’s primary goal is to position West Texas as a leading hub for aerospace and defense manufacturing by supporting the entry of new and competitive firms into the defense industrial base by 2027.
To achieve this, the Innovation Network provides small and medium-sized manufacturers, as well as aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing startups, with the tools, infrastructure, and support needed to compete in these markets. This includes expanding access to applied research and development in aerospace, defense, and additive manufacturing, while also strengthening acceleration services and introducing new incubation opportunities.
Through customized programming and purpose-built facilities located within the Advanced Manufacturing District, the initiative reduces barriers to entry that are often costly and difficult to navigate. These efforts are designed to strengthen the regional manufacturing ecosystem, drive innovation, and ultimately support job creation and long-term industry growth in West Texas.
Located at the El Paso International Airport, the Advanced Manufacturing District connects manufacturers to global markets through air, rail, road, and port access. The district supports aerospace and defense companies with affordable, modern infrastructure designed for growth and innovation. It is now open for leasing and actively accepting tenant applications. Organizations are invited to review site details and apply to join this next-generation manufacturing hub.
Advanced Manufacturing District Application
Initially launched in 2023 as a 30,000-square-foot facility at the El Paso International Airport, Phase 1 provided qualified companies with access to space, targeted incentives, and business support through $3 million in federal grant funding. Building on its early success and increasing demand, the facility has since expanded to 50,000 square feet, enabling continued business growth and capacity for additional companies. As part of a broader regional economic strategy, the Innovation Factory complements the development of the 250-acre Advanced Manufacturing District, helping to drive innovation, attract high-quality jobs, and strengthen the region’s position within the manufacturing and defense industries.
Learn MoreThe City of El Paso is launching a new opportunity for manufacturers ready to grow into the federal defense market. This incentive program provides performance-based funding tied to key milestones like registrations, certifications, and contracting activity. Eligible companies are guided toward achieving Defense Readiness Level 6 to compete for U.S. Department of Defense contracts. Applications are now open for manufacturers based in El Paso looking to expand and diversify.
DIBBs ApplicationUTEP and COEP collaborated to create a list of the most pressing challenges facing the El Paso Region Advanced Manufacturing industry. The BBBRC grant programs and projects are designed to address these challenges:
5TH Largest Manufacturing Hub
373k+ Workforce
300+ Available Manufactures
Fort Bliss, with its extensive military presence, diverse workforce, and various military bases such as White Sands Missile Range and Holloman Air Force Base, help multiply economic growth in the region. These bases create employment opportunities and increase demand for goods and services, benefiting businesses across various sectors.
The W.M. Keck Center at the University of Texas at El Paso serves as a focal point for the advancement of cutting-edge manufacturing technologies. The Advanced Technology Center at El Paso Community College, alongside various other trade schools in the region, diligently equip students with the necessary skills to integrate into the expansive manufacturing workforce of over 373,000 individuals within the El Paso area.
In 2022, El Paso and UTEP led a coalition awarded $40 million to develop a regional advanced manufacturing cluster for aerospace and defense industries. This initiative leverages UTEP’s incubation programs, Fort Bliss, White Sands Missile Range, Holloman AFB, and El Paso's multi-modal port position, aiming to boost the region's advanced manufacturing capabilities.
458,792 – Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim
399,325 – Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
375,447 – San Diego-Carlsbad-Tijuana
333,583 – New York-Newark-Jersey City
319,628 – El Paso-Las Cruces-Juarez
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics;
Statistics Canada; INEGI Note: 2021 average
Doña Ana County in New Mexico enhances El Paso's economy with agriculture, aerospace, and research at New Mexico State University. The Borderplex Region, benefits from this strategic location and connectivity:
Our region offers investors access to a diverse economy, strategic location, and durable infrastructure.
Aerospace & Defense
Economic & International
