Daikin Comfort Technologies North America is making history in Houston—not just on the field, but across the region. As the new namesake of the Astros’ ballpark, Daikin’s investment in the Houston region has been a game-changer for the regional economy and community.  Daikin’s journey in the Houston region has been one of steady growth and impact, and it all began over a decade ago. In 2012, the Japanese company acquired Goodman, a leading U.S. manufacturer of residential air conditioners. The acquisition strengthened Daikin’s foothold in the U.S. market and expanded its product offerings.  In 2017, the company opened the Daikin Texas Technology Park in Waller – just outside Houston – after consolidating Goodman’s four U.S. factories, headquarters, and distribution bases. The 4.2 million square-foot facility also serves its North American headquarters.  Since then, Daikin has invested more than $1 billion in the region, including over $500 million in the technology park alone. In 2023, the company announced the launch of a new product line focused on digital HVAC technology.   “Since establishing their campus in the region, Daikin has continued to grow, invest, and create jobs,” Steve Kean said. “Their expansion has brought new opportunities, strengthened our economy, and reinforced Houston’s role as a hub for global manufacturing and advanced technology.  Their knowledge and technology will also be valuable to our community as we maintain and grow our position as the world’s energy capital.”   As the Astros take the field at the newly renamed Daikin Park, the partnership marks more than a new name on the stadium — Daikin’s commitment to Houston goes far beyond the stadium. Through community programs focused on education and sustainability, the company is helping strengthen the region while reinforcing its commitment to innovation, economic growth, and global recognition for the region.  In partnership with the Astros, Daikin is launching two major programs. The Most Valuable STEAM Scholarship will provide Houston-area students with resources to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Daikin’s community cooling program will bring energy-efficient HVAC systems to underserved households, helping families stay comfortable while lowering energy costs.  Complementing these developments, the City of Houston has undertaken infrastructure improvements around Daikin Park. Texas Avenue, between Crawford and Hamilton Streets, was repaved — with crews removing 10 inches of pavement and replacing it with concrete and asphalt. Work began March 8 and continued around the clock to ensure the street reopened ahead of Opening Day, showing the city's commitment to creating a seamless experience for fans.  Daikin’s long-standing commitment to Houston shows that when global companies invest in our region, everyone benefits. From job creation and workforce development to education and sustainability, Daikin’s work in Houston is a strong example of what can happen when business, government and community come together.  Click to expand Daikin’s naming rights deal for the stadium runs through the 2039 season.  Learn more about what makes Houston the ideal place to live, work and build a business.

In this special live recording of Rise to the Top, we celebrate International Women's Day with Anita Sehgal, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Communications for the Houston Astros. With over 30 years of experience in strategic marketing, Anita has shaped major brands like Academy Sports and Outdoors and Best Buy before joining the Astros in 2013. Host and Partnership Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Katie Pryor talks with Anita about her journey from retail to sports, the impact of mentorship and the Astros' incredible turnaround, offering valuable insights on leadership and the power of staying curious. Launched in 2021, the Greater Houston Partnership's Rise to the Top podcast aims to amplify the insight of accomplished female leaders in the Houston region. Learn more about the Partnership's female-focused business resource groups Executive Women's Partnership and Women on the Rise.