Gov. Nixon today announced that Area Development magazine has named Missouri as one of only four states to receive a Golden Shovel award, recognizing the Show-Me State as a top state to attract high-value investment projects. Additionally, Cerner Corporation’s multi-billion dollar expansion in Kansas City is recognized as Area Development magazine’s Economic Development Project of the Year.
“From my very first day in office, I’ve focused on creating good jobs and growing our economy, so it is great to see the Show-Me State’s success continue to earn national recognition,” said Gov. Nixon. “This award is proof positive that with a highly-skilled workforce and favorable tax climate, Missouri has become a national leader in attracting the high-growth high-tech industries of the future.”
Last year, more than 125 companies announced expansions in Missouri and the state added nearly 44,000 jobs, resulting in a higher rate of employment growth than all of its surrounding states. Area Development cited Missouri’s favorable tax structure as a top reason for its growing jobs numbers. The magazine also noted Missouri’s strengths across diverse industry sectors including automotive, bioscience, information technology, energy, advanced manufacturing, life science, and transportation logistics.