When someone mentions the “eyes of Texas,” it’s a melodic reference to a certain alma mater.

Although the inspiration of the writing of the song is disputed, no one disputes the emotional impact the tune has on many Texans.

But if the tune you’re singing is about economic development, certain “I’s” of Texas are fast becoming the state’s trademarks: imagination, innovation, and investment.

Actions of the 81st Legislature definitely confirmed these concepts with funding to continue three crucial programs.

* The Texas Enterprise Fund was provided an additional $20 million, pushing its total to $200 million.

* The Emerging Technology Fund gained $94 million to reach almost $204 million when unexpended monies are considered.

* An initiative to encourage feature film and television production in the state tripled — from $20 million to $60 million.

The Texas Enterprise Fund was created in 2003 to provide financial resources to help strengthen the state’s economy.

Renewed by the next two legislatures, it made approximately $250 million available during the 2008-2009 biennium to help attract businesses and expand employment opportunities.

As a result, some 54,000 new jobs have been created and more than $14 billion generated in capital investments.

The Emerging Technology Fund (ETF), launched in 2005 with an allocation of approximately $275 million, has enabled the state to achieve nonpareil success in advancing the development and commercialization of many of the most innovative technologies to enter the scene.

By helping spur the creation of several technology companies, the ETF has expanded Texas’ global competitiveness, particularly in providing opportunities for medical and scientific breakthroughs.

Because of the ETF, much highly sought-after research talent has made Texas home.

As to the fund to incentivize the making of movies in Texas, one cannot overstate its worth.

Over the past decade, the movie industry has provided more than $1.2 billion to the state. That said, it could still be doing better, however. Texas has lost film and video production spending, as well as about 25 percent of its film professionals, to neighboring states.

Consider: Movies about Texas are being produced in those neighboring states. This is not business to be squandered.

These three funds have helped Texas keep its place as a perennial leader among the states in job creation, exports, and Fortune 500 companies.

Moreover, in the past several years, the Lone Star State has often been the top destination for the relocation of people and industries.

Many factors have contributed to this unique distinction including the state’s central geographical location; relatively low taxation and friendly business atmosphere; quality of higher education and availability of skilled labor; favorable regulatory environment, climate, and infrastructure; and plentiful supplies of energy.

But don’t discount the “I’s” of Texas.

Economist Ray Perryman is CEO of the Perryman Group. He also serves as distinguished professor of economic theory and method at the International Institute for Advanced Studies.