Startup State Initiative launches to help small businesses in Utah

SALT LAKE CITY — Those looking to start a business in Utah can now utilize support from the state. The Startup State Initiative is a program to encourage and support more entrepreneurs to start the businesses they have been dreaming of, whether they live in rural Utah or the Wasatch Front.

“The nice thing is that if you’re in rural Utah or urban Utah, you can start a company,” said Ryan Stark, executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity.

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“So we just think that in order for Utah to continue to prosper, to continue to be a place where people love to work and live and play, that starting a business is the best path for them,” he added.

There are currently more than 300,000 small businesses in the Beehive State, employing about half of Utah’s workforce.

The GOEO said Utah has ranked as the best state in the nation to start a business. That’s due in part to low taxes, access to capital and a well-rounded business ecosystem.

The program offers help to conduct market research, create a business plan, or network with community partners, among other things. Those who want help from the state can visit the Startup State Initiative website.