Border States Industries Expansion Demonstrates Local Investment’s Role in Job Creation and Business Growth in Odessa

In July 2023, Border States Industries received approximately $970,000 in incentives from the Odessa Development Corporation to support facility expansion and job creation. The project targeted 10 new jobs, a $500,000 increase in payroll, and a $12 million capital investment. Border States surpassed its job target, doubling employment growth in the first phase.
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“The funds from the Odessa Development Corporation were used to help pay for the construction of our new and larger facility,” said Sara Sanchez, Operations Manager at Border States. “We went from a 22,500 square foot building with a two-acre yard to a 35,000 square foot building with a 14-acre yard. So we are now able to house more products and ultimately become that one-stop-shop for our customers.” 

Facility Growth Drives Workforce Expansion

Before the expansion, the Odessa Border States operation employed just over 20 people. Following construction, the workforce grew to nearly 40 employees, a 50% increase.

“With the ODC grant, it allowed us to expand the facility, increasing our customer base, and being able to provide more products and generate more business in the future,” said Brianna Barriga, Inside Sales Representative at Border States. These roles support both local employment and long-term business stability.
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The expanded footprint also changed how the facility operates. Border States moved beyond a distribution-only model. With more space and staff, the Odessa location now supports automation services alongside core distribution work. This shift allowed the company to serve a broader range of customer needs while increasing employee productivity.
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The incentive funding played a direct role in this outcome. Construction support reduced upfront costs and improved project timing. That support allowed Border States to move forward with hiring earlier than planned.

A National Company with Local Impact

Border States Industries began in 1952 when two entrepreneurs launched a company to serve the electric utility industry. Over time, the company expanded into construction and industrial markets. Today, Border States supports more than 2,700 employee owners across the country. The Odessa Branch Support Center plays a key role in that national network.
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From Odessa, Border States supports strategic planning, operations, and growth for locations nationwide. The local expansion increased capacity at the Branch Support Center and reinforced Odessa’s role within the company’s long-term structure. The project also shows how local incentives can support both regional employment and national business operations.
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For the Odessa Development Corporation, the Border States expansion reflects a broader goal. Strategic incentives help local employers grow, add jobs, and reinvest in facilities. In this case, targeted support helped a long-standing company expand services, increase payroll, and deepen its presence in Odessa.

Learn More About Expansion Incentives

Businesses planning to expand or invest in Odessa are encouraged to contact the Odessa Development Corporation to learn more about available incentive programs and support tools for job creation and facility growth.