/ WELCOME TO THE STARTUP CAPITAL OF THE WORLD /

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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.

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UTAH's thriving ecosystem

Be a part of Utah’s thriving startup scene. Start, grow, and build your business in the Startup Capital of the World.

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Starting a Business

New Business Steps
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Grow Your Business

Explore Resources
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Build Connections

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Get Funding

Kickstart your business idea with the Get Started: Business Idea Challenge! Created by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) in partnership with the Lassonde Entrepreneur Institute at the University of Utah, this challenge empowers Utahns to validate their early-stage ideas in a supportive, collaborative environment. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your concept, this milestone grant program offers the perfect platform to share your vision with peers, entrepreneurs, and community members—without the stress of a traditional pitch competition.

Kickstart your business idea with the Get Started: Business Idea Challenge!

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Events

Stay connected with Utah's vibrant entrepreneurial community. Explore and attend upcoming Startup State events near you.
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Journey

Start your business journey here! Learn about tools, resources, and guides that help you succeed at every stage of your business.

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Resources

Utah supports entrepreneurs! Access a wide range of resources to build, grow, and scale your business.

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    Startup State logo white

    UTAH: THE STARTUP STATE

    The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity Startup State Initiative opens in a new tab celebrates, inspires, and empowers Utah entrepreneurs and those who support them. It consists of a statewide entrepreneurship brand and business resource portal being developed on this site. This collaborative initiative supports entrepreneurs throughout the lifecycle of their business and encourages them to start in Utah.
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    Utah’s Startup Community

    Utah provides fertile soil for modern innovators and entrepreneurs. As the country’s fastest-growing state, with a well-educated workforce and thriving economy, Utah’s mountains, valleys, deserts, and plateaus provide the perfect environment to nourish and champion the startup and entrepreneurial spirit.

    The state’s growth, unparalleled quality of life, government support for small businesses, and access to startup networks and capital attract doers and innovative thinkers to Utah’s communities.

    In January 2023, WalletHub named Utah the No. 1 best state to start a business. Utah is the startup state.

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    Utah’s Startup State Initiative Team

    In 2023, under the leadership of Gov. Spencer Cox, Utah was designated as the Startup Capital of the World—a place filled with opportunities of advancement for Utah entrepreneurs. The Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) leads the Startup State Initiative, supporting policies and programs that strengthen Utah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

    This website and its resources are part of GOEO’s ongoing efforts to promote and amplify Utah’s vibrant startup community and elevate statewide conversations, connections, and tools for success.

    Recent Podcast Episode

    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Looking to elevate your AI game? Explore what’s possible in Utah and see how the state is leading with a pro-human approach. https://lnkd.in/gt3yrqmS
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Behind Utah’s life sciences industry is a community of people who solve problems, share ideas, and move innovation forward. Their effort is why the industry is growing — and why Utah continues to lead. GOEO Executive Director Jeff Moss highlighted leadership at this week’s BioUtah Life Sciences Summit, underscoring how collaboration across sectors drives Utah’s progress.
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    ’Tis the season for giving 🎁. Utah was ranked the 2nd most charitable state in the U.S. by WalletHub — thanks to one of the highest volunteer rates and strong giving levels. Check out the full study: https://lnkd.in/eiDQtDEu
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    This week, GOEO joined with thought leaders and policymakers at 47G: Aerospace & Defense's Zero Gravity Summit to discuss technology, energy, and national security. Gov. Spencer Cox emphasized Utah's growing aerospace and defense ecosystem — vital to America's national security.
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Congratulations to GOEO’s own Paul Jolley, director of the Utah Small Business Credit Initiative \(USBCI\), for receiving an Award for Excellence from Gov. Spencer Cox. This recognition highlights his outstanding leadership and dedication to strengthening Utah’s small business community.
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    GOEO is excited to have Aaron on board as our new chief compliance officer. He’ll be leading the charge on fiscal integrity, operational efficiency, and strong governance — helping Utah drive growth and opportunity for communities and businesses across the state. https://lnkd.in/gJ6TmECG
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Budgets are tight for many Utah families, but even a small act of generosity can make a big impact. Join the Utah Week of Giving and donate today. Every dollar helps feed Utah families. Use the QR code to donate. {hashtag|\#|UtahWeekOfGiving}
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    GOEO’s Center for Rural Development partners with Utah’s rural counties, communities, and businesses to strengthen local economies. Our outreach managers live and work in rural communities across the state, helping local governments and business owners tap into Utah’s abundant economic opportunities. From navigating program and incentive applications to providing expert guidance on workforce, infrastructure, and business development, our team helps rural Utah thrive. https://lnkd.in/ehys2xY \(Pictured left to right: Lori Haslem, Sherry Stevens, Forest Turner, August Granath, Debra McKee, Colette Cox\)
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Congratulations to October’s Get Started: Tournament of Champions winners. These six founders secured funding for their business ideas. Murice Miller \| Aritoku by MoabMall Michelle Basaker \| Honey Bee Cookies Mary Saylor \| TenX Teaching James Giles \| True Origin Skincare Amanda Jenkins \| Vernal Vineyard Rio Dunton \| Wayward Shades https://lnkd.in/gvEYwNBx
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    The Utah Small Business Credit Initiative \(USBCI\) announces the upcoming launch of its Technical Assistance \(TA\) program in January 2026. This program will provide Utah small businesses with the expertise necessary to secure funding and achieve sustainable growth, including accounting, financial planning, and legal guidance. https://lnkd.in/g7cX65Kj

    Subscribe to Our Newsletter

    Need some money to get your idea off the ground? Looking for a collaborative community of like-minded entrepreneurs? Consider subscribing to the Startup State Initiative newsletter so you can receive monthly updates on resources, tips, events, and more.