September, 2009:  CNBC recently announced America’s Top States for Business in 2009, ranking Missouri 4th in cost of business and 5th in cost of living. In addition, the state ranks 6th in transportation based on the value of goods shipped by air, land and water. Missouri’s overall ranking climbed from 24th in 2008 to 14th in 2009.  Another study recently released by Pollina Corporate Real Estate ranked Missouri 12th for its pro-business climate, up from 16th in 2008.
 
CNBC ranks states based on their standings in ten economic development categories, with the cost of doing business as the top selling point.  Pollina’s study evaluates states on 33 factors including taxes, human resources, energy costs, infrastructure spending, workers compensation laws, economic incentive programs and state economic development efforts. Pollina is a full service brokerage and consulting firm representing corporations on a national and international level.
 
“We are proud to not only be moving up in the business climate rankings, but to be doing so in this challenging economic environment,” said Governor Jay Nixon. “With our many business-friendly qualities and skilled workforce, Missouri offers the best location for companies from all over the world.”