Key Takeaways
- Why Buda has evolved from a “last resort” suburb into a community of choice
- The role local entrepreneurs play in Buda’s economic strategy
- How economic development incentives actually work
- Why Buda is attracting aerospace, defense, and advanced manufacturing companies
- The challenge of balancing growth while preserving small-town character
- Jennifer Storm’s vision for helping future generations live and work in Buda
Meet the Guest – Jennifer L. Storm
Jennifer L. Storm is the Chief Executive Officer of the Buda Economic Development Corporation (Buda EDC), where she leads the team’s efforts to attract new businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and guide sustainable growth in one of Texas’s fastest-growing communities.
A longtime Buda resident, Storm rose through the ranks with deep community roots. She previously served as Chair of the Buda EDC Board of Directors before stepping into the full-time CEO role in 2022. Her journey from volunteer to top executive reflects a genuine passion for the city she calls home.
Under her leadership, Buda has strengthened its founder ecosystem, expanded business attraction initiatives, and earned national recognition. In 2026, Storm was honored as Economic Developer of the Year by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
In addition to her role at the Buda EDC, she serves on the boards of the Guadalupe Blanco River Authority, the Hays Caldwell Economic Development Partnership, and the Greater Buda Chamber of Commerce.
Connect with Jennifer and the Buda EDC
Show Notes
For years, Buda was viewed as a place people moved when Austin became too expensive. Today, that story is changing.
In this episode of Austin Eras, Adam sits down with Jennifer Storm, CEO of the Buda Economic Development Corporation and the first Texan ever named Economic Developer of the Year by the International Economic Development Council. Together, they explore how one of Central Texas’ fastest-growing communities is evolving from a bedroom suburb into a destination for business, culture, and opportunity.
Jennifer shares why Buda is becoming a community of choice, how historic Main Street is being revitalized, and why preserving local character matters as growth accelerates. She discusses the return of Buda’s 1884 train depot, the city’s thriving live music scene, the famous Wiener Dog Races, and the community traditions that give Buda its unique identity.
The conversation also dives deep into economic development: what it actually means, how incentive deals work, why Buda prioritizes local entrepreneurs alongside major employers, and how companies like Perseus and Terra Firma are helping reshape the region’s economic future. Jennifer explains her vision of creating high-paying jobs that allow residents to live and work in the same community while preserving the small-town character that residents love.
Along the way, she reflects on lessons learned growing up on a South Texas Christmas tree farm, the importance of community involvement, and why some of the most exciting stories in Central Texas may no longer be happening exclusively inside Austin’s city limits.
Whether you’re interested in city-building, economic development, entrepreneurship, Texas growth, or simply discovering one of the region’s hidden gems, this episode offers a fascinating look at what happens when a community grows with intention.