Last week, Derek B. Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber and Downtown Alliance, joined Congressman John Curtis to highlight the success of small businesses in Utah at the U.S. House Small Business Committee’s “Communities That Think Small and Win Big” hearing. The purpose of the hearing was to share best practices of communities that have developed thriving business ecosystems.
In his testimony, Mr. Miller highlighted four areas fundamental to Utah’s economic success: strong and educated workforce, low taxes and reasonable regulation, small business incentives, and international trade. Mr. Miller shared examples of how small businesses across the state are contributing to Utah’s economy.
“I think the most important element of Utah’s economic success is our people. Utah’s small business owners whether in urban Salt Lake City or rural Scipio, epitomize the state’s motto of ‘Industry.’ They are good, hard working people with a strong entrepreneurial spirit. Utah’s pioneering heritage is alive and well across the state,” said Derek B. Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber. “Our state and local governments are partnering with the business community to support small business owners who work every day to keep the American Dream alive for themselves, their families and their employees.”
Local officials had the opportunity to analyze key elements of a business-friendly environment and review socioeconomic returns on small business investment within their communities and surrounding regions.
“Under the leadership of the Salt Lake Chamber, Utah has been consistently ranked among the best in the nation for innovative start-ups and small business growth. So, it came as no surprise that the U.S. House Small Business Committee invited Derek Miller to testify about Utah’s economic success and the ways the Chamber helps small business thrive,” said Congressman John Curtis. “We are very fortunate to have the Chamber’s critical dedication to business development in urban and rural Utah.”
Witnesses of the hearing included: Derek B. Miller, president and CEO of the Salt Lake Chamber; Greg Prestemon, president and CEO of the EDC Business & Community Partners; Vanessa Wagner, small business and entrepreneurship manager of the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development; and Gregg Bishop, commissioner of the NYC Department of Small Business Services.
To view or learn more about the hearing: click here.
