THE STAR SHINES BRIGHT: Inside The Star District’s economic development strategy in Frisco

It’s a place for throwing a football around on a Saturday night, but it’s also the future site of the Academy of Country Music awards in May.

It’s where the Dallas Cowboys practice, but also where Frisco ISD hosts its student marching band showcase.

It’s attracted big-name brands like Comerica, McAfee and Fortune-100 organization TIAA, but it’s also where more local names like Mi Cocina and Monkee’s of Frisco have set up shop.

Since its inception in 2016, The Star District in Frisco has evolved right alongside the city of Frisco, shaping itself into a dining, office, retail and experience-focused force that caters to both a national and local consumer base.

The Star’s first tenant moved in a few years ago at a time when Frisco was evolving, too. As a result the strategy focused on watching that evolution and understanding what kinds of needs it would bring, said Amy Pratt, director of sales/real estate with the Dallas Cowboys.

Today, the district includes a mix of restaurant and retail businesses, as well as a combination of national and more local brands. Comerica is bringing a business and innovation hub to the district, and McAfee recently announced a regional headquarters expansion at The Star.