Fort Bend County takes pride in being recognized as the Most Diverse County in Texas and one of the most diverse in the entire United States. This distinction speaks volumes about the rich tapestry of cultures and perspectives that thrive within our community. Our diversity is not just a label; it's a driving force that propels the community forward, making Fort Bend stronger, more vibrant, and more inclusive.
The contributions of our foreign-born population are crucial to the economic growth and prosperity of Fort Bend County. Foreign-born residents have made a significant impact, contributing almost $11 billion to our county's $28 billion GDP. This equates to 38% of total business income, illustrating the immense influence individuals from diverse backgrounds have on our local economy. The community’s entrepreneurial spirit, innovative ideas, and hard work drive job creation, fuel entrepreneurship, and pave the way for economic success.
Our commitment to excellence in diversity is also evident in our education system. Fort Bend County is home to the highest-educated population in the Houston Metro area. Our largest school district is a shining example, with students speaking over 90 languages. This diverse environment fosters understanding, collaboration, and empathy, preparing our youth to become global citizens who can navigate an increasingly interconnected world.
We take immense pride in the success stories that unfold in Fort Bend County each day. Our community embraces individuals from all walks of life, providing opportunities for everyone to thrive. One such success story is Accredo Packaging, based in Sugar Land, Texas. Established in 2009 as the first LEED® Silver-certified manufacturing facility in the flexible packaging industry, Accredo has expanded multiple times since its inception, even opening a sister facility in Vietnam, further solidifying its position in the industry.
Rex Varn, Executive Vice President of Accredo Packaging, highlights the reasons behind their continued growth in Fort Bend County. "Fort Bend County continues to be a great place for us to grow because of the availability of talented and skilled labor, the favorable cost of living for our employee base, and the strategic geographic location that allows us to serve our customers efficiently and economically."