ChooseWashington.com : Vibrant Economy

Vibrant Economy

SOFTWARE
#1
In Software Publishing

INNOVATION
#2
Entrepreneurship & Knowledge

HIGH TECH
#3
In Tech-Sector Growth

Tourism
$15.7B
In Visitor Spending

Washington has a diverse economy that positions us well for ongoing economic growth. Our industries range from clean technology, global health, tourism and aerospace to technology, forestry, agriculture, and marine technology. Our established industry clusters, global trade network, skilled workforce, R&D investments, innovative start-ups and anchor companies create a climate for business success.

Quick Facts

Washington's economy is innovation-based, including our world-class research institutions and entrepreneurial spirit.

Some of the largest, most successful technology companies established R&D centers in Washington - including Intel, Hewlett Packard, Oracle, Adobe and Google.
Washington is home to cutting-edge research laboratories, such as the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and two world-class research universities, University of Washington and Washington State University.

Washington was named 2nd in the 2008 State New Economy Index by the Kauffman Foundation and Information Technology & Innovation Foundation - recognizing us for an entrepreneurial and knowledge and innovation-based New Economy.

Washington's high-tech industry added jobs for the fourth year in a row, according to the annual Cyberstates report by Tech America. The state's high-tech industry added 11,300 jobs for a total of 174,100 in 2007, ranking third nationally in tech-sector growth. Washington leads the country in software publisher employment.

Thousands of small businesses make up the Washington state tourism industry. In 2008, visitors spent a record $15.7 billion in the state, generating $1 billion in state and local taxes. Travel spending supported 149,000 jobs in Washington in 2008.

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