Doing business in Idaho offers entrepreneurs, start-ups and established business enterprises a wealth of readily available resources to maximize a return on investment. We have a highly-qualified and educated workforce, and are particularly strong in the technology, research, healthcare, and agriculture sectors. Our business leaders are eager to partner in innovative research and development endeavors and always looking for new opportunities. In addition, our communities are able to attract and retain the people that add substance to the rankings our state and cities are awarded. See for yourself how others have defined us:
Inventive. Entrepreneurship is alive and well in Idaho! In July 2006 Meridian/Boise Metro area was ranked the 8th Most Inventive City by research commissioned by the Wall Street Journal. As a leader in new technologies and applications for energy enhancements and innovations in emerging agricultural and bioscience industries, Idaho boasts the nation’s highest number of patents issued per capita.
Return on Investment. There is no substitute to being part of a vibrant commerce-driven business community. Idaho ranked #7 overall and #5 for Economic Climate in Forbes 2008 The Best States for Business. Meridian was ranked #27 out of 200 Best Performing Cities in the Milken Institute Best Performing Cities Report 2008
Unlimited opportunities. Idaho companies are connected worldwide through broadband and an efficient transportation system. Goods and services were sold to more than 140 countries in 2007 via convenient access to rail and the Interstate, not to mention one of the best airports on the globe. (J.D. Power & Associates 2004 Global Airport Satisfaction Index Study.)
No obstacles. Idaho is financially sound and fiscally responsible which equates to long-term financial stability without excessive tax burdens on stakeholders and citizens. Direct access to government and decision makers in Idaho allows 3 for collaborative problem-solving that facilitates business solutions instead of a business being just another number. This accessibility contributes to rankings in the top 10 (#5 and #8) as a top state for the low cost of doing business. (Milken Institute, September 2007 and Moody’s North American Business Cost Review 2008.)
Attractive to a skilled workforce. Idaho consistently ranks among the best places to live. Not only do we have a skilled and educated workforce, but we continue to attract the best and the brightest who want to take advantage of residing in one of the best places to live in the United States. (Ranked number 2 in the Best of the Best Places, MSNBS Top 10 Best Places to Live in the U.S., June 2008.)
Affordable. The median price of a home is $196,400, compared with the national median at $202,300. In addition, the cost of living in Meridian is 6 percent below the national average.
Safe. Sperlings, August 2008 named Meridian #2 on the Most Secure U.S. Place list.
Predictable climate conditions. The same climate conditions that provide ideal growing conditions for over 70 crops also mean low property insurance rates.
Focus on future generations. Meridian recognizes the importance of providing a quality environment for our young people. Named by America’s Promise as one of the Top 100 Best Places for Young People in 2006, 2007 and 2010 and Meridian was highlighted for this honor by Money Magazine in 2007 and 2010.
Educational opportunities. Quality education opportunities from kindergarten to post graduate are affordable and widely available, and Joint School District No. 2 has a high school graduation rate, nearly 20% above the national average. With 20 places of higher education within a 4 stones throw of Meridian, our public and private colleges and universities, community colleges, and professional and technical institutions are preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s challenges.