#United States #Washington, D.C. #Industrial Growth #Gulf South #Energy Producers

Gulf South Business Roundtable: A New Era for Industrial Growth

In a significant development for the industrial and energy sectors, leading executives have united to establish the Gulf South Business Roundtable (GSBR). Launched on September 10, 2025, this coalition is dedicated to driving economic competitiveness and infrastructural development across the Gulf South, especially in the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. This nonprofit organization is uniquely positioned as a unified voice, representing energy producers, large industrial energy consumers, and community stakeholders.

Purpose and Vision

The primary aim of the GSBR is to enhance the Gulf South's role in national policymaking and to advocate for policies that propel growth for the region's energy producers and consumers. By bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, the organization seeks to bolster economic opportunities through improved grid reliability and infrastructure investments. John Hudson, the Chief External Affairs Officer at Entergy Corporation, emphasized the economic power of the Gulf South, stating that these five states contributed over $2.7 trillion to the U.S. GDP in 2023 alone.

Key Players and Leadership

The founding members include prominent companies such as Entergy Corporation and Alabama Power Company, along with key contributors like Kinder Morgan and Mitsubishi Power Americas. The coalition is co-chaired by Hudson and Jeff Peoples, the Chairman, President, and CEO of Alabama Power Company. Ben Portis has taken on the role of Executive Director, overseeing the strategic vision and day-to-day operations of the GSBR.

Hudson remarked, "The Gulf South deserves global recognition for its economic contributions and potential for future growth. Together we can advocate effectively for the policies that impact our communities and industries."

Focus Areas and Initiatives

The GSBR is committed to defining a clear narrative about the opportunities within the Gulf South. The focus will be on aligning public officials and businesses across various sectors, including advanced manufacturing, logistics, and alternative energy. The objective is to create a cohesive platform for advocacy that will drive investment, innovation, and job creation within the region.

Portis elaborated on the group's goals, stating, "With the formation of the GSBR, we have a robust mechanism for proposing projects and policies that bring substantial investments and foster regional growth. Our members represent a diverse alliance aimed at shaping the future of an economic corridor that is vital for the country."

Upcoming Events and Engagements

In its early stages, the GSBR plans to engage with federal and regional policymakers, aiming to strengthen ties with senior congressional leadership from the Gulf South. An annual policy conference is scheduled for October in Washington, D.C., which will provide a platform for discussions on aligning local and national interests.

Membership and Future Opportunities

The Gulf South Business Roundtable is actively inviting new members who share a commitment to enhancing regional economic vitality. Organizations focusing on policy alignment and sustainable growth are encouraged to join. Those interested can find more details and membership options on the official website www.gulfsouthbusiness.org.

The GSBR exemplifies a proactive approach to regional growth, aiming to unify voices and resources to advance the industrial landscape of the Gulf South, which holds critical importance for the national economy.