Governor Jan Brewer: Arizona a Top 10 State for Business

PHOENIX, AZ (May 2, 2012) — Governor Jan Brewer today announced that Arizona ranks 10th-best in the nation in terms of its business climate, according to the 2012 report from Chief Executive Magazine. This ranking represents a three-spot climb from Arizona’s ranking at this time last year. You may view the report here: http://chiefexecutive.net/best-worst-states-for-business-2012.

“This report from Chief Executive Magazine validates what those of us who live here already know: Arizona is a premier location to grow or relocate a business,” said Governor Brewer. “We are once again a national leader in job growth. I pledge to continue fighting for the lean regulations, competitive tax rates and ready workforce that helped get us here.”

For its report, Chief Executive Magazine surveyed 650 business leaders nationwide, and asked them grade states among a variety of areas – including tax and regulation, quality of workforce and living environment. Arizona received four out of five stars in each of these categories, and was positively-regarded for its surging entrepreneurial activity over the past year.

“Arizona offers the best climate for business, and this ranking by Chief Executive shows how the new policies put in place and the structure of our economic development model are helping the state climb to the top of national rankings,” said Don Cardon, president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority. “I’m particularly impressed that the report recognizes Arizona’s increased entrepreneurial activity – this state has the brightest and best thinkers and it is being noticed around the world.”

Texas ranked #1 in this year’s report; California, for the eighth consecutive year, ranked last.

Media Contact

Nicole McTheny, Arizona Commerce Authority, (602) 845-1231, [email protected]

About the Arizona Commerce Authority

The Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) is the state’s leading economic development organization with a streamlined mission to grow and strengthen Arizona’s economy. The ACA uses a three-pronged approach to advance the overall economy: attract, expand, create – attract out-of-state companies to establish operations in Arizona; work with existing companies to expand their business in Arizona and beyond; and help entrepreneurs create new Arizona businesses in targeted industries. For more information, please visit azcommerce.com and follow the ACA on Twitter at @azcommerce.