Utah unveils a new Startup State Initiative
The program is focused on life sciences and health care innovation, aerospace and defense, advanced manufacturing, information technology and software development, and financial services.
The Utah Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) is launching entrepreneurial program known simply as the Startup State Initiative.
It is part of Governor Spencer Cox’s efforts to promote and amplify an already thriving entrepreneur community and elevate statewide conversations, networks, and resources. As part of the Startup State Initiative, GOEO has developed a statewide entrepreneurship brand and business resource portal at startup.utah.gov. The online resource will support start-ups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs throughout their business journey while inspiring them to start something new in Utah.
“The Startup State Initiative highlights what already exists in Utah and elevates it to new heights. It isn’t just about Utah, it’s about setting a new global standard for innovation and entrepreneurship,” the website for the new program says. It includes 19 steps to help entrepreneurs.
The program is specifically focused on five key economic sectors: life sciences and health care innovation, aerospace and defense, advanced manufacturing, information technology and software development, and financial services. These sectors provide high-paying jobs, have a higher-than-average number of employers compared to other states, and help support other segments of the economy, including retail and professional services.
In January 2023, the Governor even appointed the state’s first Entrepreneur-in-Residence to advise his administration on entrepreneurship education, culture, and resources. The Startup State Initiative is an outgrowth of that appointment.
