While considering states that promote business hubs within American borders, your mind likely wouldn’t immediately be drawn to the “Natural State” of Arkansas. However, those in the know understand that Arkansas is actually a hidden gem both for entrepreneurs and corporations alike for a variety of reasons. With a strong business climate, low cost of living, and the abundance of natural resources that the state boasts, this is a prime location for business growth and innovation.
The following are the many factors that come together to make the state an ideal location for a variety of businesses. Read on to learn more about this vibrant North American business hub:
Favorable Tax Climate
One of the advantageous aspects the state of Arkansas offers business owners is a favorable tax climate. As we all know, there is nothing certain except death and taxes, and while death remains unavoidable, taxes are at least tempered within Arkansas making it an attractive location for businesses to put down roots. This is especially true if said business is looking for ways to save money. In fact, Arkansas has one of the lowest tax burdens in the entire nation, which makes it worth considering at the very least as a home base for a profitable business.
Location, Location, Location
Location isn’t just important in terms of real estate overall but is also immensely important for business success. Arkansas has some advantages when it comes to the state’s geographical location. Arkansas is centrally located within the United States. It also is within a day’s drive of many major U.S. cities like Memphis, Dallas, and St. Louis. This means an Arkansas business can be easily accessed by customers and enjoys easy access to suppliers throughout the region. This can reduce shipping costs and in turn, reduce overhead costs for many businesses.
Educational Options
Yet another benefit of Arkansas when it comes to business advantages is the educational institutions in-state. Arkansas is home to a number of prestigious universities, including Arkansas State University and the University of Arkansas. These universities provide a steady stream of skilled graduates, which make great employees for a growing business.
There are also collaborative and research opportunities available for local Arkansas businesses thanks to the presence of the many educational institutions. The presence of these two universities along with other educational facilities that call the state home make the state an ideal location to start a business, especially one that embraces new tech and that is interested in a newly trained workforce, who are equipped with knowledge of the latest advancements in various industries.
Embraces Technology
The state of Arkansas has enjoyed significant growth in technology. It is home to a number of successful technology startups, including established tech companies such as J.B. Hunt and Acxiom. J.B. Hunt has made changes within the carrier, shipping, and driving industries that have automated many processes to maximum efficiency. Acxiom is a data-based marketing company that is based in Arkansas. This company reaches out globally to offer customer intelligence and innovative analytics that is highly valued both locally and around the world.
The presence and success of these technology-based businesses show a commitment within the state to embrace ever-increasing tech within the state. These two businesses outlined are just two of the many tech-based or technology-first companies that are thriving within the state. The state has become home to many businesses that embrace technology and innovation, which makes it a good place overall to start a business, no matter the field.
Promotes Manufacturing
The state’s central location along with its low cost of living makes it an attractive location for manufacturing companies. This along with the state’s naturally abundant resources like minerals and timber provides a steady stream of raw materials which further promotes the furtherance of manufacturing businesses. The overall success of manufacturing within a state is tightly tied to its economic success. There is a strong and direct link between a prosperous economy and the manufacturing industry. Therefore, since manufacturing is promoted and encouraged within Arkansas, other businesses can also benefit from the economic improvement that impacts job creation as well as community growth.
Arkansas: North America’s Hidden Business Hub
From technology startups to manufacturing companies, businesses of all types and sizes are finding success within the Natural State. If you are looking to start or grow a business, don’t overlook Arkansas as a prime location for success. It might be a bit unknown as such, but it has quickly become one of the most ideal locations to start a successful business within North America, making it a valuable hidden business hub. 
