Workforce - 241 out of 400  points

The primary factor in scoring for this category was the education level of each state’s workforce. Minnesota’s workers are among the most educated in the nation, with over 92 percent having a high school diploma – ranking fourth in the U.S. – and over 33 percent having a bachelor’s degree – ranking 11th in the U.S

Infrastructure & Transportation -  221 out of 350 points

We know that we are only as strong as our ability to transport goods to market, and with one of the largest and busiest airports in the country – the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport – we are well positioned to export around the world.

Cost of Doing Business -  152 out of 350  points

According to CNBC, “A solid economy is good for business.” Minnesota is experiencing substantial economic growth, adding nearly 200,000 jobs in the past four years and boasting one of the lowest unemployment rates in the country at 3.8 percent.

Economy -  241 out of 340 points

As one of the most improved categories for the state, Minnesota jumped from 38th place in 2014 to 35th place in 2015. Since 2011, the private sector business survival rate grew from 44 percent to 55 percent – placing Minnesota in 5th place nationally.  We are also home to 17 Fortune 500 companies, ranking second in the national per capita. 

Quality of Life -  268 out of 325 points

Quality of life is an important factor in a solid economic development strategy, which bodes well for Minnesota: a state that offers culture, the arts, natural beauty and bustling metropolitans.  With low rates of poverty, a healthy citizen population, and competitive cost of living, Minnesota offers a place where people can prosper.

Technology and Innovation -  179 out of 250 points

Minnesota’s industry diversity helped us weather the recession better than most other states, but we also offer expertise in global solutions. With expert proficiency in health care, food and water solutions, the world is turning to Minnesota companies to solve issues threating populations around the globe.

Education -  150 out of 200 points

An educated workforce is key to a thriving business community. With over 200 public and private higher education institutions in Minnesota, the availability of educated workers is abundant. Additionally, Minnesota also has some of the best access to training and re-retraining opportunities for workers looking for careers that are in-demand. 

Business Friendliness -  75 out of 160 points

This scoring category measures states’ regulatory framework, as well as perceived friendliness. While modest compared to other states, Minnesota offers financial support to businesses looking to expand or grow within its borders. 

Cost of Living -  29 out of 75 points

A competitive cost of living allows for workers to find viable housing, food and energy, and enables wages to go further. Minnesota placed 16th in 2014 with per capital personal income at $48,711 annually.

Access to Capital -  28 out of 50 points

The CNBC study looked at venture capital investments by state, as well as small-business lending on a relative basis. Just this past legislative session, leaders made it easier for start-up companies to raise capital in Minnesota through equity crowdfunding.