Andy Burnham and Bev Craig sign agreement with Austin Texas

Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham and Cllr Bev Craig, the leader of Manchester City Council have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Austin Mayor Kirk Watson.

The “Friendship Cities Agreement” marks the first partnership between a UK city-region and Texas since the UK Government signed their landmark Statement of Mutual Cooperation on economic development and trade in March 2024.

The casually dressed Burnham, who was in the city for the music and tech event South by South West, has made no secret of his ambition for Manchester to host an event of similar scale.

Under the agreement, the places will collaborate in key areas including economic development, innovation, science and technology, education, tourism, arts and music, and urban development.

The partnership aims to encourage knowledge sharing, business connections, and cultural exchanges that benefit residents and businesses in both cities.

Austin is the capital city of the state of Texas and, like Manchester, is the fastest growing city in the US. It is known as “The Live Music Capital of the World” due to its rich film, media and music history and venues.

Burnham said: “Austin and Manchester have so much in common. We are the fastest-growing cities in the UK and US but we’re also places with a real focus on people, music, culture and everything that makes life great. We don’t just adapt to change – we lead it.

“The Friendship Cities Agreement is the beginning of something really exciting. Whether in tech, music, or business, we are ready to exchange ideas, build partnerships, and create opportunities that will benefit businesses and residents on both sides of the Atlantic.”

Bev Craig said: “now is the right time to formalise our collaboration – accelerating already impressive business and cultural exchange, and nurturing the valued civic connection between Austin and Greater Manchester.”

Mayor of Austin Kirk Watson said: “This Friendship Cities Agreement with Greater Manchester is more than just a document—it’s a bridge between two innovation-driven, culture-rich cities.

“Austin thrives on creativity, entrepreneurship, and connection, and Greater Manchester mirrors that energy. By joining forces, we are setting the stage for incredible collaborations that will inspire growth and opportunity in both cities.”