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Air Force’s second largest base by population and
geographical size.

In addition to making Utah a great place to live, the
state’s impressive natural landscapes attract and cul-
tivate the best in the outdoor industry. Known as the
place to be for outdoor products, over 200 leading
outdoor products companies reside here.

Finally, the most fundamental reason for Utah’s eco-
nomic success is the business-friendly climate encour-
aged by state and local government leaders. Utah has
among the lowest tax rates in the country and strives
to keep business regulations to a minimum. The low Message from
cost of doing business in Utah is another reason for
success. With an average rate of 9 cents per kilowatt Kristen Cox
hour, Utah’s dynamic energy economy boasts one
of the most affordable and attractive energy rates in Executive Director of the Utah
the country. Governor’s Office of Management and Budget
FDI Efforts

Utah is committed to economic development and Utah is a beautiful state with more than its fair share than 27 percent in four years These operational im-
has dedicated agencies in place to help fulfill this of resources. Business is booming thanks to a focus provements have saved taxpayers millions of dollars
mission. The Utah Governor’s Office of Economic on reasonable and predictable business regulations, and produced better outcomes for customers.
Development focuses their efforts on providing rich a qualified workforce, low and stable tax rates, a
business resources for the creation, growth and re- AAA bond rating from all three rating agencies and The focus on quality improvement in state govern-
cruitment of companies to Utah. Another resource premier market access. As our state continues to ment is a proactive move to help Utah meet the
dedicated to promoting economic prosperity is World grow, we are focused on forward-looking policies growing demand for services in a fiscally responsi-
Trade Center Utah who leads business delegations that will help us maintain our unparalleled quality of ble way. We take the same proactive approach to
abroad, hosts foreign dignitaries and works to estab- life for decades to come. policy in Utah. Instead of resting on our laurels, we
lish meaningful connections with potential customers are focused on continually improving infrastructure,
and partners. In 2018, “Rich States, Poor States” ranked Utah managing the states’ water supply, investing in ed-
number one in the U.S for its economic outlook. ucation to prepare the workforce of tomorrow and
Choose Utah Even with exciting rankings like these, we know the leveraging land use to provide more employment
work is never done. This is a motto we apply to Utah and recreation opportunities close to housing that
CEO Magazine recently named Utah’s workforce government. We are constantly looking for ways we is affordable. These are just a few of the items that
the best in America. Utah is the youngest state in the can be even better stewards of public funds. are part of Governor Herbert’s Life Elevated 2020
country with a median age of 30 years. In addition, Initiative, a collaborative, statewide growth strategy.
Utah is the most bilingual state in America. Its residents Utah government agencies are committed to pro-
speak more than 130 languages, and many are viding top-notch services while maximizing existing Both the private and public sector are involved in
culturally fluent, having lived in countries all across resources. One of the key purposes of my office, discussions about the state’s economy, because col-
the globe. The Utah Governor’s Office of Management and laboration is a key ingredient in the secret sauce of
Budget, is to work with state agencies to help them Utah’s success. Companies are the heart of Utah’s
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce, in its report on achieve operational excellence. In 2012 we created economic engine, and our goal is to help business-
enterprising states, mentioned that the spirit of col- and began implementing the SUCCESS Framework, es of all sizes be successful. If you are looking for a
laboration was found in greater abundance in Utah a management approach based on the Theory of place to locate your business, Utah is ready to wel-
than in any other state. We welcome the opportunity Constraints. The SUCCESS Framework helped Utah come you with open arms.
to strengthen our connections and invite you to see state government improve performance by more
all that Utah has to offer.

FDI ALLIANCE | SEPTEMBER ISSUE 2018 79