June Newsletter | Startup State Initiative

How Local Chambers Help Utah Businesses Thrive

Many of Utah’s small businesses are missing out on one of their strongest allies: local chambers of commerce.

Chambers play a vital role in strengthening local economies with untapped potential to support entrepreneurs in their journey. They provide a powerful support network, access to expert guidance, community connections, and promotional opportunities. With more than 60 chambers across the state, including those focused on rural areas and underrepresented groups such as women, veterans, and minority entrepreneurs, businesses can find a community that fits their unique needs.

Piano Place

Driven by her passion for music and teaching, Sarah Davies founded The Piano Place, a music studio that has grown from a home-based business to statewide success. Within months, the studio outgrew its first location, and it now has a team of over 100 specialized instructors in cities across Utah and Idaho. Her journey is a testament to how passion, grit, and a supportive environment can transform a dream into a flourishing enterprise.

Third Thursday @ Three

Recognized by Utah Business as a top networking opportunity, Third Thursday @ Three is a premier monthly event for Utah’s startup community to connect, pitch, and grow. Hosted in Lehi and powered by Kinect Capital, the event features startups delivering rapid-fire pitches to investors. Whether seeking funding, scouting startups, or exploring Utah’s startup scene, Third Thursday @ Three is a valuable gateway into entrepreneurship.

A Message From GOEO’s New Executive Director

Utah has a remarkable legacy of innovation, collaboration, and economic resilience. As the newly appointed executive director of the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity, I’m honored to build on that momentum.

Over the years, I’ve built successful companies and started and worked for several venture capital funds. I’ve had the privilege of serving in the Utah Legislature and working in higher education, with experience showing how aligning policy, education, and entrepreneurship creates meaningful change. I’ve gained an appreciation for the critical role of small businesses and am pleased to join the Startup State Initiative in fostering the next generation of leaders shaping Utah’s economy. It exemplifies Gov. Cox’s commitment to driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and long-term economic growth to advance opportunities for all Utahns.

I look forward to working with our outstanding team, public and private partners, and Utah’s communities to build on our state’s collaborative and industrious heritage. Together, we’ll continue to make Utah a well-recognized place where businesses thrive, ideas flourish, and every Utahn has the opportunity to prosper.

Jeff Moss
Executive Director, Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity

May Winners

Do you have a business idea? Utah’s Get Started Business Idea Challenge encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. The competition is open each month to Utah residents with any idea, awarding winners with $500 in non-equity funding.

Last month’s winners include:
Breath of Life, ParkPal, PrivacyHound, Rollin’ Harvest, Salt City Soapworks, and Yoked Staff.

Learn about each winner and how you can join Utah’s thriving startup community.

Thank you to SadieB and SandBar for being a part of Utah’s startup community. Share your story with us for the chance for your company to be featured.

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