Colorado has topped the Internet Association’s ranking of states where it is easiest to start and operate an online business, beating out Washington, Utah, Maryland, and Massachusetts to claim the top spot. The Ease of Doing Internet Business survey examined four major categories: internet business environment, internet accessibility, innovation financing, and general business governance along with 11 subtopics to rank each state.
Colorado’s top ranking came as a result of scoring in the top 10 of all states for eight of the subtopics and three of the four major categories. The study specifically cited the state’s, “excellent (friendly) business governance with low taxes (both generally and for internet firms specifically), a friendly regulatory environment, and an easy process for starting a business.” Each of the four states following Colorado were beaten due to a less regulatory environment or weaker internet business environment.
“Our goal isn’t to grade; it’s to educate—to work with policymakers to better understand how sectoral initiatives and economic development can grow the economy,” wrote Internet Association chief economist Christopher Hooton. “Fostering a strong internet business environment is an important step towards fostering a strong internet sector and building strong local economies.”
