Find the Best MBA Programs by State
For prospective B-Students, you will find information on MBA program rankings, graduate salaries, tuition costs, GMAT requirements, and career outlooks. Whether you’re interested in a program in California, New York, online, or anywhere in between, these in-depth state ranking reports will help you choose the right MBA program for you.
Alabama MBA Programs
Businesses in Alabama have a lot to benefit from due to the state’s low cost environment, skilled workforce, and favorable regulations. As a powerhouse of industry, Alabama continues to attract new commerce, while also offering incentives and resources to help existing businesses succeed. Companies who do business in Alabama are supported by a wealth and variety of natural resources, providing social, economic, and environmental benefits and opportunities. Property taxes are a combination of the state and local tax rate, as well as the value of the property. Thus, businesses in Alabama are provided with an ideal environment for success.
Alaska MBA Programs
The business environment in Alaska is incredibly beneficial to many industries. Oil production has been the primary source of economic growth in the state and has funded up to 90 percent of unrestricted General Fund revenues in most years. Additionally, basic sectors and industries bring money into the economy by primarily selling goods and services to markets outside of Alaska. These industries have helped to provide up to 85 percent of the state budget. The geography of Alaska also provides many opportunities for businesses by providing a longer growing season and warmer temperatures, which can lead to more frost-free days. This can benefit certain crops and create new opportunities. Furthermore, the large areas of undisturbed habitats provide opportunities for both highly valued cultural and conservation activities. These benefits have also helped to enhance the conservation ethic in the tourism industry, leading to increased growth and quality of ecofriendly tourism both in Alaska and worldwide.
Arizona MBA Programs
Arizona is a great place to do business, thanks to its pro-business mindset, competitive tax structure, affordable operating costs, and lean regulatory environment. Businesses can take advantage of incentives like aggressive tax credits, low-interest business financing from the Pinal County Industrial Development Authority (IDA), and other resources in areas such as transportation, waste, water, building and land use, parks, air quality, and food systems. Additionally, Arizona invests more per capita on public school students than most other states, with smaller class sizes and better resources, creating a high-skilled talent pipeline for businesses. The state also has a lower cost of living compared to other regions, making it an attractive option for businesses. With its many pro-business policies, Arizona is an excellent place to establish a business.
Arkansas MBA Programs
The economy of Arkansas is based on service industries, aircraft, poultry, steel, and tourism, along with important commodity crops of cotton, soybeans and rice. Arkansas has also become the base of the Walmart corporation, the world’s largest company by revenue, headquartered in Bentonville. The state has seen prosperity since World War II in the 1940s. The strengths of the business environment in Arkansas include access to low-cost land and labor, available workforce training and education programs, a low cost of living and excellent quality of life, and a strong transportation infrastructure. Additionally, the state is home to many international businesses, including technology and industrial companies.
California MBA Programs
California is one of the world’s top economies, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that is poised to overtake Germany and become the fourth largest in the world. Thanks to its strong job creation, resilient economy and thriving industries, the Golden State continues to outperform the US and other countries in GDP growth, renewable energy, market value and more. California’s values and entrepreneurial spirit have helped fuel this success, and Governor Newsom has implemented financial assistance packages to help Californians with rising inflation and costs. In addition, the state has doubled down on clean energy and zero-emission vehicles, making it one of the top exporters of ZEVs. California is a prime example of what can be achieved when excellent leadership, innovation and resilience come together.
Colorado MBA Programs
The economy of Colorado is 16th largest in the United States with a gross state product of $421 billion and a per capita personal income of $61,157. Its major industries are agriculture, energy, aerospace and defense, technology, tourism, and finance. Colorado is a significant producer of wheat, corn, sorghum, hay, beef, and marijuana. Denver is the economic center of the state and is home to large corporations in the central United States. Additionally, many federal agencies have offices in the Denver area and many companies are based on federal defense and space projects. The business environment in Colorado is bolstered by its geographic position and its mineral-rich and fossil fuel-rich area.
Connecticut MBA Programs
The economy of Connecticut is strong and diverse, with finance and insurance, manufacturing, and real estate being the top three industries. Major financial industry employers include The Hartford, Travelers, Cigna, Aetna, and Mass Mutual, while manufacturing is dominated by Hartford-based United Technologies Corporation (UTC). The state also has a strong agricultural sector, with more than 12,000 people employed in the industry.
Delaware MBA Programs
The economy of Delaware is affluent, with average sale prices for new and existing homes reaching up to $323,000 in Sussex County. Delaware has the ninth-largest number of millionaires per capita in the United States. Agriculture is one of the main industries in the state, with poultry, nursery stock, soybeans, dairy products, and corn being the major outputs. The state’s largest employers are government, education, banking, chemical, pharmaceutical and technology companies, healthcare providers, farming (chicken farming in Sussex County), and retail stores. Dover Air Force Base is one of the largest employers in Delaware. Despite some industrial decline like the automotive manufacturing industry and steel industry leaving the state in the mid-2000s, Delaware remains attractive for businesses due to its business-friendly incorporation laws. Over 50% of all US publicly-traded companies and 63% of the Fortune 500 are incorporated in Delaware. Delaware MBA Programs.
Florida MBA Programs
Florida’s economy is one of the largest in the world, with a gross state product of $1.2 trillion in 2021. Its five largest sectors of employment are trade, transportation and utilities; government; professional and business services; education and health services; and leisure and hospitality. It is the eighth largest exporter of trade goods in the US, with its top countries for export being Brazil, Canada, Mexico, Germany, and Colombia. The economy is driven almost entirely by its nineteen metropolitan areas, and per capita GDP in 2017 was $39,842. Florida does not impose a personal income tax and had over 427,000 millionaires in 2018. In 2022, its unemployment rate hit a historic low of 2.7%. The strengths of the business environment are its absence of personal income tax, high number of millionaires, and low unemployment rate. Additionally, agriculture is a major industry, with the state being a major producer of bell peppers, tomatoes, grapefruit, oranges, sugarcane, and watermelons.
Georgia MBA Programs
The economy of Georgia is driven by both its country and U.S. state. The economy of the country is largely powered by the service sector, which accounts for 58.7% of its GDP and employs 64.7% of the population. The industrial sector makes up 26.1% of the GDP and employs 20.6%. Agriculture contributes the remaining 15.2% to the GDP and employs 14.7% of the population. The strengths of the business environment in Georgia include an educated and relatively low-cost workforce, a well-developed infrastructure, and a business-friendly legal environment. Additionally, Georgia offers numerous incentives to attract foreign investment, including tax exemptions, free trade zones, and access to European markets.
Hawaii MBA Programs
The economy of Hawaii is heavily reliant on tourism, with visitors providing a major source of income. Hawaii also has several hundred companies engaged in diversified manufacturing, with heavy-manufacturing plants producing oil, petroleum products, chemical compounds, and aluminum. Agriculture is an important component of the local economy, with ranches and commercial fishing providing additional sources of income. Hawaii also has some hydroelectric power and geothermal energy production, and is looking to increase its use of renewable energy sources. The state taxes are collected through a centralized tax system, and the state’s revenue comes from a general excise tax, individual income taxes, and federal grants-in-aid. The business environment in Hawaii is strengthened by its labor force, which is among the most unionized in the country, and its wide range of recreational and cultural facilities for tourists.
Idaho MBA Programs
The economy of Idaho is largely based on agriculture, forestry, and mining, with the production of potatoes, wheat, lentils, barley, oats, sugar beets, peas, beans, and alfalfa seed. Mining produces molybdenum, silver, and lead. Energy is produced primarily through hydroelectric power stations on the Snake River. Manufacturing is related to the processing of foods and forest and mining products, as well as electronics and industrial machinery, food processing, and printing and publishing. Tourism has become increasingly important, with Sun Valley being a major destination. The state’s major sources of income are personal and corporate income taxes and a sales tax. Businesses benefit from a service-oriented regulatory environment.
Illinois MBA Programs
The economy of Illinois is one of the most diversified and largest in the United States, with a GDP of $857 billion. It is home to many of the largest US companies, including Abbott Laboratories, AbbVie Inc., Allstate, Baxter International, Boeing, Conagra, Crate and Barrel, Kraft Heinz, McDonald’s, CNH Industrial, GE Healthcare, Aon PLC, Willis Towers Watson, Mondelez International, Motorola, United Airlines, US Foods, Walgreens and more. The state is home to many Fortune 500 companies and is a global financial center with multiple financial institutions. Agriculture is a major part of the Illinois economy with corn, soybeans and other large-field crops being produced extensively. Manufacturing is another major contributor to the state’s economic output with chemical products, publishing, fabricated metal products and transportation equipment being some of the most important sectors. The service industry is also strong in Illinois with financial trading, higher education, logistics and medicine being some of the key industries. Tourism has also been a key driver of economic growth with visitors spending nearly $42 billion a year.
Indiana MBA Programs
The economy of Indiana is based on strong sectors such as manufacturing, agriculture and services. Manufacturing is the largest sector, accounting for 27% of U.S. steel production and the 2nd largest auto manufacturing state. Agriculture and service sector have also been important contributors to the state’s economy. In addition, the energy sector has seen rapid growth in recent years, with wind energy the fastest growing form of energy in the state. This diversified economic environment provides a strong foundation for businesses to grow and succeed in Indiana. The state also offers competitive tax rates, a skilled workforce, and access to major transportation networks, making it a desirable environment for businesses.
Iowa MBA Programs
Iowa has a diverse economy that is based on advanced manufacturing, processing, financial services, information technology, biotechnology, and green energy production. The state is one of the safest to live in the United States and is home to many world-class businesses. Iowa’s business environment has several strengths, including a low cost of living, a well-educated population, access to capital and a strong infrastructure network. Additionally, the state is home to an expanding array of industries from agribusiness to biotechnology, and has a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship.
Kansas MBA Programs
Kansas has a strong and diverse economy, driven mainly by its agricultural sector. The state is the largest producer of wheat in the US, as well as significant amounts of corn, sorghum and soybeans. Kansas also has strong manufacturing and energy sectors, and is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies. The business environment in Kansas is attractive to companies due to its low taxes, affordable wages and cost of living, and its well-developed transportation infrastructure. The state also offers a variety of incentives to businesses, such as tax credits, grants and loan programs. Additionally, Kansas has a highly educated workforce and a strong research and development sector.
Kentucky MBA Programs
Kentucky has a diversified economy with strengths in agriculture, manufacturing, energy, medical facilities and auto manufacturing. The state’s agricultural sector is fifth in goat farming, eighth in beef cattle production and 14th in corn production. Kentucky’s manufacturing sector is home to numerous automobile and truck assembly plants. The state also has a robust energy sector with fuel production and coal mining. Additionally, Kentucky has a thriving medical facility sector. The state’s business environment is further enhanced by the combination of a pro-business government, low taxes and an educated workforce.
Louisiana MBA Programs
The economy of Louisiana is diverse and thriving. The state is a major exporter of agricultural products, including seafood, cotton, and soybeans. Louisiana is also home to thriving industries in the petrochemical and manufacturing sectors. Furthermore, the state boasts a strong tourism industry and is a hub for the shipping and transportation of goods. Louisiana also offers a business-friendly environment with low taxes, incentives for businesses, and access to capital. The state’s infrastructure is well-developed, offering reliable roads, ports, and airports. As such, the business environment in Louisiana is strong and offers numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs and businesses alike.
Maine MBA Programs
Maine has traditionally been known for its fishing and farming industries, but in recent years, the state has become an important center for the creative economy, especially in the vicinity of Portland. The city has become a hub for the tech, finance, and manufacturing industries, and is home to a thriving start-up scene. The business environment in Maine is bolstered by its access to a skilled workforce, low taxes, and business-friendly regulations. The state is also known for its entrepreneurship and innovation, with many startups and small businesses receiving funding from venture capital firms. Additionally, Maine has a number of incentives and programs designed to help businesses grow and succeed, such as the Maine Small Business Loan Program, tax credits, and business development grants.
Maryland MBA Programs
Maryland’s economy is based on a diverse range of industries and is backed by a strong business environment. The state’s largest private employer is the Johns Hopkins University and its largest source of income is generated by its services sector. Maryland has a strong presence in the technology and life sciences industries, which contribute significantly to the state’s economic growth. Additionally, Maryland has a thriving agricultural sector, with the state’s main crops being corn, soybeans, and wheat. Maryland also has a strong manufacturing industry that produces many goods, such as chemicals, food products, and textiles. The state also has a strong transportation infrastructure, which allows for quick delivery of goods across the country. Overall, Maryland is an attractive place for businesses due to its highly educated workforce, low taxes, and innovative spirit.
Massachusetts MBA Programs
The economy of Massachusetts is largely based on technological research and development, as well as the service sector, including tourism. This marks a major shift from the state’s preindustrial agricultural basis and maritime trade of the 17th and 18th centuries, as well as the heavy manufacturing of the 19th century and first half of the 20th. Major strengths of the business environment in Massachusetts are its success in exports of high-technology equipment, minicomputers, and semiconductors; ongoing investments by venture capitalists; and the availability of a highly educated workforce. The growth of other services like finance, law, education, insurance, and health care has contributed to the state’s financial prosperity.
Michigan MBA Programs
Michigan is a strong and growing economy. It has a large and diversified industrial base, including automotive, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, and agriculture. The automotive industry is Michigan’s largest sector and accounts for a large portion of the state’s jobs and economic output. The state also has a large and diverse service sector, including finance, retail, and education. Michigan has a business-friendly environment, with lower taxes and cost of living than most other states, making it attractive for businesses looking to expand or relocate. Additionally, the state offers strong incentives for businesses to invest in research and development, such as tax credits and grants. Michigan is also home to some of the top universities in the country, providing a well-educated talent pool for businesses.
Minnesota MBA Programs
The economy of Minnesota is largely driven by the exploitation of its natural resources, such as soils, iron ore, and timber. Agriculture remains an important industry, with corn, soybeans, wheat, hay, sugar beets, and barley being major crops. Forestry has also been revitalized with the growth of the wood pulp and waferboard industries. Iron ore accounts for the majority of the state’s mineral production. Manufacturing includes food-service companies such as General Mills, Inc., along with chemicals, medical electronic devices, computer software, and recreational equipment. Minnesota also has oil refineries for imported crude oil as well as natural gas pipelines from Canada and other parts of the Midwest. The state is a national leader in ethanol production and has been mandated to use gasoline blended with ethanol. The strengths of Minnesota’s business environment include its abundant natural resources and its diverse manufacturing base.
Mississippi MBA Programs
The economy of Mississippi is largely based on manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and agriculture. Mississippi is home to many industries such as automotive, aerospace, chemicals, lumber, construction materials, and food processing. Manufacturing is the largest sector of the state’s economy, with strong contributions from the automotive and aerospace industries. Transportation is also a major sector, with over 1,000 miles of rivers and waterways. Healthcare is the second largest employer in Mississippi, providing jobs to more than one-third of all workers in the state. Agriculture is a key part of the state’s economy and Mississippi produces a wide variety of crops, from cotton to soybeans. The business environment in Mississippi is strong and offers a number of advantages to businesses, including a low cost of living, low taxes, and access to a skilled workforce. The state also offers incentives like tax credits and grants to help businesses succeed.
Missouri MBA Programs
Missouri is a state that offers a diverse economy and a business-friendly environment. The state’s economy is driven by a number of industries, including financial services, transportation, and manufacturing. Missouri also benefits from its location in the Midwest, as its proximity to major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City give businesses access to a large population and a wide variety of resources. Additionally, the state offers a competitive tax system that encourages businesses to invest in the local economy. As a result, Missouri has seen strong economic growth in recent years and is an appealing destination for businesses looking to expand and succeed.
Montana MBA Programs
Montana is known for its strong economy and business environment. The state has a diverse range of industries, including agriculture, energy, tourism, and manufacturing. Its business climate has been ranked among the best in the U.S., with low taxes, low costs of living and doing business, and access to a skilled labor force. Montana has a strong entrepreneurial spirit and encouraging tax climate, with incentives for businesses investing in research, development, and job training. The state also has an abundance of natural resources, including minerals, timber, and coal, which contribute to its economic strength. Additionally, Montana is home to a number of major research universities and has a history of technological innovation.
Nebraska MBA Programs
Nebraska’s economy is largely driven by its agricultural sector, which accounts for around one-fifth of the state’s total output. The state also has a strong manufacturing sector, with industries such as food processing, machine tools, chemicals, and metal products all providing a significant contribution. The service sector is also an important contributor to the economy, with sectors such as healthcare, finance, transportation, and tourism all playing a role. In recent years, the state has seen an increase in technology-based businesses, particularly in the Omaha area. The strengths of the business environment in Nebraska include its low business taxes, low cost of living, and highly skilled labor force. There is also an abundance of natural resources such as water, timber, and minerals, which can be used to attract new business opportunities. Finally, the state has an excellent transportation network that connects it to major markets in the US and Canada.
Nevada MBA Programs
The economy of Nevada is driven by its thriving tourism sector, with Las Vegas being the international epicenter of entertainment and gambling. The state is also known for its burgeoning technology sector, particularly in the areas of software, data services, and computer systems design. Additionally, Nevada has become a hub for renewable energy, with an abundance of solar and geothermal energy sources. The state’s business environment is characterized by low taxes, a favorable regulatory environment, and a diverse and growing population. Nevada also offers a range of incentives to businesses looking to set up operations, such as financial assistance and tax credits. In addition, the state’s unemployment rate remains low, making it an attractive destination for businesses. All of these factors make Nevada an ideal location for businesses to locate and grow.
New Hampshire MBA Programs
New Hampshire is a small but vibrant state with a strong, diversified economy. The state has a business-friendly environment, low taxes, and a highly educated and skilled labor force. The state’s main economic drivers are tourism, manufacturing, health care, and technology. Tourism is a major industry in New Hampshire, with the White Mountains, Lakes Region and Seacoast drawing in visitors from all over the world. The manufacturing sector is a major contributor to the state’s economy, and includes electronics, precision instruments, and apparel production. Health care is also an important sector, with hospitals, medical laboratories, and research facilities located throughout the state. Technology companies are beginning to locate in the state as well, with many software and IT companies choosing New Hampshire as their base of operations. Overall, New Hampshire’s business environment is strong, with low taxes and a highly educated workforce providing a solid foundation for businesses to grow and succeed.
New Jersey MBA Programs
The economy of New Jersey has been largely driven by its strong manufacturing and technology industries. New Jersey’s location in the heart of the Northeast Corridor provides access to a large and well-educated labor force, making it an attractive place for businesses to invest. Additionally, the state’s tax incentives, favorable business climate, and transportation infrastructure have helped to make it a hub for both large and small businesses. The state also offers many incentives to attract new businesses, including workforce training programs and loan guarantees. New Jersey’s strengths as a business environment include its strong infrastructure, access to a highly educated workforce, pro-business policies, and an abundance of technological resources. These factors have allowed the state to remain an attractive destination for businesses looking to grow.
New Mexico MBA Programs
The economy of New Mexico is largely based on the service sector and extractive industries (mining and oil production), with government spending accounting for nearly a quarter of the state’s economic activity. Agriculture is limited due to scarce water, with farming techniques remaining largely unchanged since the time of the Spanish explorers. Manufacturing has increased and diversified since World War II, with food processing, petroleum refining, smelting, and the production of electronic components, communications equipment, furniture, and construction materials being the leading industries. New Mexico is also a leader in high-technology industries, such as nuclear weapons and energy research at the Los Alamos National Laboratory and the Sandia National Laboratories. The business environment in New Mexico is strong in areas such as technology, manufacturing, and extractive industries.
New York MBA Programs
New York’s economy is one of the largest and most diverse in the US. It is a major driver of the American economy and home to some of the world’s most influential industries. The state is a major hub for finance and banking, retail, transportation and logistics, and higher education. It also has vibrant technology and life sciences sectors, as well as a thriving tourism industry. The business environment in New York is competitive and innovative, with access to an educated and highly talented workforce. The state has an attractive tax system that encourages businesses to invest, as well as an array of incentives to spur job growth. New York also benefits from its proximity to major East Coast markets and a strong international presence.
North Carolina MBA Programs
The economy of North Carolina is highly diversified and composed of several industries, such as agriculture, forestry, resources and power, and manufacturing. Agriculture remains an important part of the state’s economy, with North Carolina leading the nation in the production of sweet potatoes, dry beans, tobacco, pigs, broilers, and turkeys. There are also large reserves of non-metallic rocks and minerals, including phosphate rock, lithium minerals, feldspar, olivine, mica, and pyrophillite. The state produces most of its electric power from coal-fired thermal plants and nuclear stations. Manufacturing has been a major industry in North Carolina for nearly a century, with the state being a leader in the production of tobacco products, textiles, furniture, computers, electronic communications equipment, chemicals, and machinery. The business environment in North Carolina is strong due to its diversified industries, abundance of resources, and access to electric power.
North Dakota MBA Programs
North Dakota’s economy is largely based on agriculture and natural resource extraction. It is a major producer of wheat, barley, sunflowers, canola, sugar beets, and dry edible beans. The state also has a strong energy sector, as it is a major producer of oil, natural gas, and coal. Additionally, North Dakota is home to a number of industries such as manufacturing, finance, tourism, and technology. The business environment in the state is strong, with low taxes, a favorable regulatory climate, and access to capital. North Dakota has also been successful in diversifying its economy through investments in infrastructure and human capital. This has helped to create a more diverse job market and attract new businesses to the region.
Ohio MBA Programs
Ohio has a thriving economy, thanks to its ideal location, abundant natural resources, productive soils, and access to cheap energy and transportation. The state’s wealth of coal, oil, natural gas, clay, salt, limestone, sandstone, shales, and gypsum help to provide local industries with the raw materials needed for production. The state is also home to a large labor force, with many employed in manufacturing. Despite a decline in heavy industrial production since the 1970s, Ohio continues to be a great industrial state and an attractive place for businesses to operate.
Oklahoma MBA Programs
Oklahoma’s economy has traditionally been heavily reliant on agriculture and petroleum, but the state and local government have made efforts to diversify the economy through new forms of industry and tourism. Services are the biggest source of employment, followed by wholesale and retail trade, manufacturing, finance, insurance and real estate, transportation and public utilities, construction, and mining. Agriculture and forestry also play an important role in Oklahoma’s economy, with livestock, wheat, dairy products, cotton, and soybeans being among the state’s most commercially viable products. In terms of resources and power, Oklahoma ranks high for the value of mineral production, including petroleum, natural gas, natural gas liquids, coal, and stone. Manufacturing is a minor part of the economy, with electronics and communications equipment, industrial machinery, transportation equipment, pulp and paper production, and packaging facilities being some of the main industries. Finally, services are a major economic activity in Oklahoma, and government is the largest single employer. The state’s budget-balancing amendment helps to keep spending in check.
Oregon MBA Programs
Oregon is a diversified economy, with a strong focus on resource-based industries such as forestry, agriculture, and fishing. These traditional industries are complemented by newer ones such as biotechnology, plastics production, and software. Trade with Asian countries is a major source of export revenue for the state. Tourism, recreation, and service activities are also important sources of income. Oregon is well known for its natural beauty, providing ample opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, skiing, and windsurfing. The state has a vibrant business environment, with strong support from the government in terms of taxation and regulation, and a wide range of services available to businesses.
Pennsylvania MBA Programs
The economy of Pennsylvania is robust and diverse, with major industries including agriculture, manufacturing, biotechnology, finance and insurance, health care and medical services, and tourism. The state has a strong business environment, offering a variety of incentives and resources to boost business growth and development. Pennsylvania has a large and highly educated labor force, which is often attracted to the state by its low costs of living, excellent infrastructure, and attractive business climate. The state is a hub for many Fortune 500 companies, including Comcast, Kraft Heinz, and PPG Industries. Additionally, Pennsylvania is home to a number of innovative research institutions and world-class universities, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and businesses.
Rhode Island MBA Programs
Rhode Island has a thriving economy, with a strong business environment. The state is home to a variety of industries, ranging from traditional manufacturing to tourism, finance, and healthcare. Rhode Island’s economy is driven by its highly educated workforce, low taxes, and a strong focus on innovation. The state’s strategic location on the Eastern Seaboard also makes it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand into new markets. In terms of key strengths, Rhode Island has one of the highest levels of venture capital investment in the US, as well as a diverse economy with a mix of industries. The state also offers incentives for companies to relocate or expand their operations in Rhode Island, such as tax credits, access to skilled labor, and access to infrastructure. With its strong business environment and growing economy, Rhode Island is an attractive option for businesses looking to invest and grow.
South Carolina MBA Programs
South Carolina’s economy is characterized by a shift away from agriculture and towards manufacturing and services. The manufacturing sector, though it has declined in recent decades, still remains a major part of the economy and has been boosted by foreign investment. The state is known for its production of low-wage fabrics and other nondurable goods, as well as transportation equipment and other durable goods. The service sector is driven by tourism, while the agricultural sector is still important and produces crops such as cotton, soybeans, tobacco, peaches, and livestock. Forestry is a notable industry, with forests covering more than two-thirds of the state. South Carolina also has a significant mining industry, producing crushed stone, clay, sand, gravel, and gold. Finally, nuclear power is the main source of energy in South Carolina, followed by coal-fired plants, petroleum and natural gas, and hydroelectric and other renewable resources. The strengths of the business environment in South Carolina include its plentiful natural resources and strong manufacturing sector.
South Dakota MBA Programs
The economy of South Dakota is mainly based on agricultural production, such as corn, alfalfa, rye, flaxseed, wheat and soybeans. Livestock and animal feeds are also important sources of income, with South Dakotans among the leading cattle producers in the US. The state also benefits from forestry and mining, and tourist attractions such as Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Additionally, the hydroelectric power produced by the Missouri River dams is largely transmitted out of state. Manufacturing in South Dakota includes foodstuffs, wood products, light machinery, computers and electronics. The services sector, which includes tourism, is also a major contributor to the economy. The main sources of income for the state government are sales tax, revenue from licenses and profits from state-owned tourist facilities. There is no personal or corporate income tax in South Dakota. The strengths of South Dakota’s business environment include low unemployment rates, a variety of agricultural production, hydroelectric power production, manufacturing, services and government income sources.
Tennessee MBA Programs
Tennessee is a state with a strong and diverse business environment. It has a thriving economy, and the state is home to a range of industries such as manufacturing, finance, technology, and tourism. The state’s low cost of living and high quality of life make it an attractive place to live and work. Tennessee has excellent transportation links, both to other states and internationally. Additionally, the state’s favorable tax climate, access to capital, and workforce development initiatives make it an attractive place to open and grow businesses. Tennessee is also home to a number of major research universities that provide a valuable resource for entrepreneurs. Overall, Tennessee’s business environment is strong and provides many advantages for businesses looking to locate or expand in the region.
Texas MBA Programs
The economy of Texas is strong and diverse. It is the second-largest state economy in the United States and is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies as well as many small businesses. The state has a low tax burden and an abundance of natural resources, skilled labor, and an educated workforce. It is also home to many leading industries, including energy production, technology and health care. Furthermore, businesses benefit from the state’s pro-business environment, with laws designed to protect their interests and a commitment to economic development and job creation.
Utah MBA Programs
Utah is one of the most economically healthy states in the country, with strong job growth and a low unemployment rate. The state’s business environment is particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, with a well-educated and skilled workforce, a competitive tax structure, and abundant natural resources. The state has a diverse economic base, including energy, finance, tourism, technology, and manufacturing. Utah also boasts a strong infrastructure and transportation system, making it easy to move goods and services in and out of the state. Additionally, Utah has been recognized as a leader in innovation and entrepreneurship, making it an attractive place to do business. All in all, Utah offers a business-friendly environment that is conducive to success.
Vermont MBA Programs
The economy of Vermont is largely driven by the tourism and agriculture industries. The state is home to some of the nation’s most picturesque ski resorts, and its fields of rolling green hills provide a bounty of fresh produce. In addition, Vermont has a vibrant tech sector and many businesses in fields such as manufacturing, health care, and financial services. Vermont also offers a well-developed infrastructure, low taxes, and an educated workforce, making it an attractive destination for businesses of all sizes. These strengths of the business environment, combined with its natural beauty, have helped make Vermont one of the most desirable and successful states in the country.
Virginia MBA Programs
Virginia has a diverse, robust economy with a variety of strengths. The state’s GDP of $550.7 billion in 2019 ranked it 12th in the nation, and its unemployment rate of 3.3% was the lowest in the country. Virginia boasts a strong and growing workforce, with more than 4 million people employed in 2019. Major industries in the state include government, professional and business services, trade, transportation, and utilities. Virginia’s business environment is particularly attractive to companies looking to expand and locate in the state. In addition to its highly educated workforce and relatively low taxes, Virginia has numerous incentives and programs designed to support businesses, including the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the Virginia Film Office.
Washington MBA Programs
The economy of the State of Washington is characterized by its lack of a personal income tax, its sizeable concentration of STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) workers, and its large volume of seaborne foreign trade with Asia. Its leading economic sectors are government, real estate and rental leasing, and information, with manufacturing coming in fourth place. Major businesses based in the state include Boeing, Starbucks, Amazon, Costco, and Microsoft. Washington’s taxation structure includes the business and occupation tax (B & O), a gross receipts tax; state and local sales taxes; and property taxes. The per capita personal income in 2009 was $41,751, 12th in the nation. The state also has a strong agricultural sector, with a total value of crops in 2010 of $7.93 billion. These strengths make Washington an attractive option for businesses looking to establish or expand their operations.
West Virginia MBA Programs
The economy of West Virginia is the 62nd largest in the world and has a projected nominal GDP of $63.34 billion. Tourism is a major industry in the state, producing $13 million daily in economic impact. Morgantown was ranked by Forbes as the 10th best small city in the nation to conduct business in 2010. West Virginia’s unemployment rate was 4.6% in August 2019, one of the lowest in the country. The state GDP was $72.48 billion in 2021, an increase over $69.71 billion in 2021. The largest employers in West Virginia are WVU Medicine; Walmart; CAMC Health; Mountain Health Network; Kroger; Lowe’s; Contura Energy; Mon Health; American Consolidated Natural Resources and Mylan Pharmaceuticals. West Virginia receives annually around $261 million in federal Research and development (R&D) funds, ranking 34th in the nation. The strengths of the business environment in West Virginia include a net corporate income tax rate of 6.5%, business costs 13% below the national average, a large tourism industry, and an overall low unemployment rate.
Wisconsin MBA Programs
Wisconsin is a major economic power in the Midwest, boasting strong industries in manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. Its durable goods manufacturing is a major source of income and is balanced by the processing of agricultural and raw forest materials, which has remained steady. The state government has made efforts to encourage small and minority businesses, add value to raw materials before shipping out of state, and promote tourism and international trade and investment. The agricultural sector is mainly dairy farming, and timber production is largely for paper pulp. Commercial fishing has been restored in the Great Lakes, with greater importance placed on sport fishing. Wisconsin’s strengths lie in its diverse range of economic activities, its state government initiatives to promote business growth, and its natural resources.
Wyoming MBA Programs
Wyoming’s economy is largely based on tourism and the extraction of minerals such as coal, natural gas, oil, and trona. Agricultural commodities include barley, hay, livestock, sugar beets, wheat, and wool. Tourism is a major industry in Wyoming, with visitors drawn to the state’s iconic landscapes and outdoor activities. The state is home to two national parks (Grand Teton and Yellowstone), two national recreation areas, two national monuments, several national forests, historic sites, fish hatcheries, and wildlife refuges. The extraction of oil, natural gas, coal, and trona is also a major part of the economy. The presence of these resources has created a business-friendly environment with low taxes and regulations, making it an attractive destination for businesses and investors. In addition, Wyoming has a highly educated workforce due to its exceptional public education system. This has led to a vibrant tech industry in the state, with many tech startups setting up shop in the state’s major cities.