Idaho Named Top State For Small Business
Idaho made the top of a list of the best states for small businesses to set up shop.
?I think that’s number one. It always comes down to the people that you have. How good of employees are they?? Idaho Department of Labor Regional Economist Dan Cravens said.
Having a strong workforce, doesn’t necessarily mean loads of welding certificates or college degrees.
Cravens said it often comes down to so-called soft skills.
“Their diligence, their work ethic, their desire to stay with the same company. We always come out very well, if not on top,? Cravens said.
The Kaufman Foundation and Thumbtack.com surveyed thousands of small business owners across the nation and graded each state on things like state support, how easy it is to start up and if there is a friendly tax code.
Idaho got an A+ in just about every category.
Recovered Energy is a business in Pocatello that makes oil-water separators for ocean-going ships.
It does business all over world, from Saudi Arabia to South America. The business could be based just about anywhere, but the owners chose to stay in Idaho.
“I’d say anybody who was looking to do business in Idaho ought to look at it. It’s great,? Recovered Energy Vice-President Gary Chandler said.
Cravens said getting this recognition should help put Idaho on the radar of more businesses looking for a place to start up.
“It doesn’t surprise me. It’s always pleasant to get that recognition, and I’m sure that will only enhance Idaho’s efforts to attract new small businesses, and particularly high-tech small businesses, to our state,? Cravens said.
Idaho did get one poor grade ? a D for new employee hiring costs.
According to the Kaufman Foundation, the least friendly state for small business is Rhode Island.
