/ 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

Find Events
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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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    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
    Academy Award–winning actor, filmmaker, and producer Kevin Costner will take the main stage with Utah First Lady Abby Cox at the 2025 One Utah Summit, on Oct. 6-8. Together, they’ll explore storytelling, legacy, and the spirit of the American West. https://lnkd.in/gEnyjUha
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Grand Trunk, a Utah-based outdoor gear company, doubled its workforce and is expanding with support from the Utah Small Business Credit Initiative \(USBCI\). Backed by the U.S. Treasury and administered by the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, USBCI is helping homegrown companies like Grand Trunk scale from startup success to long-term growth. See how USBCI can help your business thrive. https://lnkd.in/gusQjHqV
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Connect with other businesses in the government contracting space at the Oct. 16 APEX Symposium. Whether you want to grow partnerships or showcase your strengths, this event is your chance to make valuable connections and take your procurement journey to the next level. https://lnkd.in/gYuFp4KG
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Congratulations to September’s Get Started: Tournament of Champions winners. These six founders secured further funding for their business ideas. Sarah Rinderknecht \| A La Card Stephen Olson \| Benchmark Body Metrics Amber Toler \| Dyno Outfitters Ryan Henry \| Hive Dynamics Logan Queen \| Queen SNOWWORKS Ben Miller \| RACKD Systems https://lnkd.in/gpYN7H5i
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Hit the road and explore Utah. GOEO Executive Director Jefferson Moss shares his favorite local spots for food, fun, and adventure across the state.
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Congratulations to the awardees who will be recognized by Gov. Spencer Cox at the One Utah Summit, on Oct. 6-8. Businessperson of the Year — Korey Wright, Owner, Bar W Beef Business of the Year — The Creamery These individuals and companies have significantly contributed to economic development, local communities, and industry in Utah and beyond. https://lnkd.in/gEnyjUha
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Brian Miller, founder and CEO of the financial operating system MoneyRight, joined the latest episode of the "Business Elevated" podcast. The software teaches key financial concepts, like debt repayment strategies, and the importance of investing, while emphasizing a compassionate, non-judgmental approach.
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    "Valar Atomics is proud to partner with Gov. Cox and the state of Utah on America’s nuclear comeback. After evaluating 22 states for our initial site, we found Utah to be a sophisticated, efficient, and responsive partner; Utah’s pace of execution and competence are vital for the success of our endeavor. President Trump set an ambitious goal to bring advanced reactors to criticality by July 4, 2026, and Utah and Valar are answering that call. With our recent groundbreaking, we’re moving from plans to construction to deliver dependable, affordable power for AI, advanced manufacturing, and American industry. It’s a decisive step toward the energy abundance Gov. Cox envisions — and toward making Utah a leader in nuclear." Isaiah Taylor: Founder, Valar Atomics
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    This year’s APEX Symposium, on Oct. 16, is packed with insights and strategies to give you the tools to win in the government marketplace. Whether new to government contracting or looking to grow, these breakout sessions will sharpen your skills, connect you with industry professionals, and unlock new opportunities. https://lnkd.in/gYuFp4KG
    Utah Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity
    Today, GOEO's Executive Director, Jefferson Moss, presented at Utah Energy Week. He spoke about the office's role with Utah's energy landscape, including critical minerals and Operation Gigawatt. He also highlighted economic development in the state and discussed why Utah is a great place to do business.

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    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.