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Student-led initiative aims to inform local leaders and improve citywide policies.
(SAN ANTONIO -- June 23, 2025) — The Better Futures Institute (BFI), a civic tech nonprofit committed to building a more resilient and equitable San Antonio, is calling on residents to help shape the future of their neighborhoods by participating in its Economic and Urban Development Survey, now available online.
The survey is open now through early August and takes just a few minutes to complete. To participate, please visit bfinstitute.org/survey.
This survey is designed and led by BFI’s Civic Tech Scholars—12 undergraduate and graduate students from local colleges participating in a hands-on summer internship program. The students are gathering insights from the community to develop a policy brief that will be shared with local public officials and business leaders later this summer.
“This survey is a meaningful way for San Antonians to shape the future of their communities,” said Alberto Gomez, President & CEO of the Better Futures Institute. “Our Civic Tech Scholars are leading the way—doing the research, engaging with residents, and using technology and policy tools to ensure that every voice matters in the decision-making process.”
The survey asks residents to weigh in on priorities related to economic growth and urban development, including infrastructure, local investment, community services, and neighborhood identity. Responses will help guide future programs, investments, and policies that directly affect the quality of life in San Antonio communities.
“For me, this is about listening to the people who live here every day,” said Eliana Arriaga, a Civic Tech Scholar and double major in Plan II and Government at UT Austin. “We want to make sure our research reflects what San Antonians really want to see improved in their neighborhoods.”
“This is your chance to share with other community stakeholders and city leaders what matters most to you—and know that your voice is part of a larger effort to create a better future for all of San Antonio,” said Gomez.
Survey results and the students’ final policy briefs will be published online later this summer.
For more information, visit www.bfinstitute.org or email info@bfinstitute.com.
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About Better Futures Institute
Better Futures Institute (BFI) is a San Antonio-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing a culture of innovation, civic engagement, and social impact. Through paid internships and fellowships, BFI empowers emerging leaders in STEAM—Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—to build the resilient and inclusive cities of the future.
BFI’s flagship Civic Tech Scholars Program, launched in 2024, gives college students hands-on experience in policy research, community engagement, and technology-driven problem solving. By connecting these bright, civic-minded scholars with real-world opportunities in San Antonio, BFI is not only shaping tomorrow’s leaders—it’s also helping retain local talent and build a stronger, more sustainable future for the city.
To learn more, visit www.bfinstitute.org or explore the Civic Tech Scholars Program at this link.
Dr. Alberto Gomez is a San Antonio-based entrepreneur. He is the Co-founder, President, and CEO of Better Futures Institute, and co-founder of Irys Technologies, a data analytics and cybersecurity firm. He holds a Ph.D. in Communication and Creative Industries.
