Texas is positioned to become a global leader in dementia prevention and research, pending voter approval this November.
During the state legislative session, lawmakers established the Dementia Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (DPRIT), a $3 billion initiative that aims to accelerate groundbreaking research into dementia and related brain disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s, fuel medical innovation, and improve health outcomes for Texas residents.
However, the release of DPRIT funding depends on whether voters approve Proposition 14 on the November 4 ballot. If passed, the proposition would dedicate $3 billion over the next decade—up to $300 million each year in competitive grants—making it the largest state-funded research program in the nation.
Economic Opportunity for Texas and Houston
According to a McKinsey Health Institute analysis, strategic investment in brain health initiatives could generate up to $260 billion in local GDP impact.
Modeled after the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), which transformed the state into a hub for cancer research, DPRIT holds the same potential to elevate Texas—particularly Houston—as a hub for brain health research.
“Houston is truly the epicenter in terms of cancer research. CPRIT has awarded $4 billion in funding and $2 billion of that is in Houston,” CPRIT CEO Kristen Doyle said during a recent Partnership event. In 2024, Houston institutions received more than $157 million in CRPIT funding.
DPRIT funding could accelerate that momentum, attracting top researchers, startups and companies to the region, while fueling job growth, strengthening local businesses and driving innovation across the state.
Health and Economic Impact
This investment comes at a critical time as Texas faces the growing health impact of brain disorders. According to the Texas Dementia Initiative, more than 400,000 Texans currently suffer from Alzheimer’s disease, and that number is projected to exceed 500,000 by 2030 as the state’s population continues to age. The state also ranks second nationally in Alzheimer’s deaths.
Dementia also places a significant financial burden on families and the state’s economy. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s cost Texas families $20.6 billion annually. In 2023 alone, nearly one million caregivers provided care to Texans with Alzheimer’s, contributing an estimated 1.5 billion hours of unpaid care—valued at nearly $24 billion annually.
Looking Ahead
The passage of Proposition 14 is critical to improving health outcomes for Texans and fueling long-term economic growth across the state. Early voting runs from Oct. 20 through Oct. 31, with Election Day on Nov. 4.
Learn more about DPRIT and Proposition 14.