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Starting Up: 5 Best States for Starting a Business

SmartMoney.com

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December 30, 2008
By Diana Ransom
(Page 2 of 6)

1) Massachusetts



If access to a knowledgeable work force is a proxy for entrepreneurial success then look no further than the Bay State. Playing host to such top-notch colleges and universities as Harvard and MIT, Massachusetts boasts the most highly-educated work force in the country. “Massachusetts is head and shoulders above every other state in the Index,” says Atkinson – and it has been each time the New Economy index has been compiled – that is, four times in the past nine years. The state also has the most scientists and engineers per capita, making it an especially fertile ground for software, hardware and biotech firms — and the venture capitalists that fund such outfits. Massachusetts' venture capital system, says Atkinson, is second only to California's.


Harvard University's Dunster House.


Next State: Washington >>>

Last 5 Comments
Al Posted: 2:41 PM On June 20, 2009
I've been in the tax business over 20 years now, and recently one of my client's got nailed for $2 million in what amounts to extortion by NJ, I guess in keeping with it's mafia roots. The company had no physical presence there, but nevertheless, the state bullied them into a 'take it or leave it' proposition or face costly litigation. Great state to start a business, yeah right.
Chris Posted: 8:57 PM On December 30, 2008
Are you sure this list isn't inverted? The only state that makes sense is Washington. There is a great piece in the WSJ today pleading with Obama to look at New Jersey, and do exactly the opposite!
P.S. Virginia is far more business friendly and 'techie' than Maryland.
smmm Posted: 6:05 PM On December 30, 2008
I cannot believe there was any research for this article or any logical thought put into it. Why not talk about things that actually matter for start-ups such as low costs, low taxes, business-friendly environment, etc. I am a small business owner and while my home state of PA isn't particularly good, it is a better situation than any of the 'leaders'.
Cali Posted: 3:40 PM On December 30, 2008
Thanks for letting me know what states I should stay away from – did the dems put you up to this?
FairnessMan Posted: 3:05 PM On December 30, 2008
New Jersey? What the hell is this clown smoking. Highest property taxes, highest auto insurance, high income tax, 7% sales and the list goes on and on and on with no end in site. Ultra left wing, anti business governor, senators, most house members Also possibly the most Commie state with outrageous compensation for cops, teachers and other public parasites. Better to start a business in China.
what a laugh...you wish it were true Posted: 2:34 PM On December 30, 2008
not sure what it cost NJ or Maryland to get mentioned....great laugh for closing out the year....if one wants lots of government rules, hi taxes, and overall bureaucratic gridlock...I am sure these two can challenge California and NewYork for places to stay away from......wonder what the inbound busiess migration has been?....Must be all those folks moving up from sunbelt huh?
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