Top 5 Reasons to Start a Business in Oklahoma

When it comes to starting a business, there are many factors to consider, including location, cost of living, workforce availability, and industry trends.  

“For entrepreneurs looking for a place that offers a favorable business climate and a variety of successful industries, Oklahoma is worth considering,” said Peter Kelly, small business coordinator for Central Tech.  

With a low cost of living, business-friendly policies, and a skilled workforce, Oklahoma is an ideal place to start a business. Additionally, the state has several industries that have historically been successful, including energy and natural resources, aerospace and defense, agriculture and food processing, manufacturing, and technology and innovation. 

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and are thinking of starting a business, here are the top five reasons why you should consider starting a business in Oklahoma. 

One of the biggest advantages of starting a business in Oklahoma is the low cost of living. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Oklahoma is one of the most affordable states to live in, with a cost of living that is 10% lower than the national average. This means that you can stretch your dollars further and enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. 

Oklahoma is known for being a business-friendly state. The state government offers tax incentives and business-friendly policies that make it easier for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.  

“For example, Central Tech’s small business program provides free business consulting services to help entrepreneurs with everything from developing a business plan to securing funding,” said Kelly. “In addition, we host several small business workshops throughout the year and have incubator space available.”  

Among the benefits of utilizing a business incubator is the graduated rental rates for office and light manufacturing space. The lower initial cost of occupancy gradually increases as your business matures and grows. 

Oklahoma has a highly skilled and educated workforce, thanks to its excellent technical schools through Oklahoma CareeTech. Central Tech produces top-notch graduates who are ready to work in a wide range of industries. With a 94% placement, you can find talented employees to help you build and grow your business. 

Oklahoma is in the heart of the United States and Central Tech is between Oklahoma City and Tulsa. It’s an ideal location for businesses that need to ship products to customers across the country. The state is home to two major interstates (I-35 and I-44) and has easy access to other major highways, railroads, and airports. This makes it easy to transport goods and materials and to travel to other parts of the country for business meetings and networking events. 

Finally, Oklahoma offers a high quality of life for entrepreneurs and their families. The cost of living is low, the people are friendly, and there are plenty of cultural and recreational activities to enjoy. Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, shopping, or attending a live concert, there is something for everyone in Oklahoma. 

“With a low cost of living, business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, strategic location, and high quality of life, it’s easy to see why Oklahoma is becoming an increasingly popular destination for entrepreneurs,” said Kelly.  

Whether you are just starting out or looking to expand your existing business, Oklahoma may be the perfect place and Central Tech can help you get started. If you are ready to talk solutions, contact peter.kelly@centraltech.edu or 918.224.0235.