Texas has been courting businesses for some time now, attracting job creators and corporations to the state in droves.
State and city officials have lured corporations in with sales tax incentives. That's prompted accusations of corporate welfare and ill-gotten subsidies, but the state’s dance card is full when it comes to reeling in businesses. In fact, the state’s attracted more businesses than most.
In a recent survey of 2011 data, Texas was given an “A+” for efforts to attract and expand business ventures in the state. The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, conducted the survey and found that Texas’ tax codes, licensing practices and environmental regulations conveyed an “overall friendliness” towards businesses.
The study called the state an “oasis” for businesses, and placed San Antonio, Dallas/Ft. Worth, and Austin in the top 5 friendliest cities for businesses. Austin finished fourth behind Oklahoma City, Dallas/Ft. Worth, and San Antonio.
