Provo's Economic Milestones and Future Outlook

I recently asked Provo’s Economic Director, Keith Morey, to share what exciting things are happening on our city’s economic and commercial front. He quickly responded, “What direction would you like me to discuss? North, south, east, or west—everywhere you turn, something remarkable is happening in Provo!” One of Provo’s Four Pillars, Economically Vibrant, is a vision that impacts every Provo resident. We are investing in business retention, attraction, location, and development here in our community. 

Provo has grown and changed much over the last few decades. While it’s sometimes hard to see the city that we love advance and develop, Provo’s economic growth has a significant effect on the quality of life for our residents: less travel for work, employment opportunities that appeal to rising generations, and increased earning potential. These measures are also hallmarks of a healthy economy. In fact, when Provo was chosen by the Milken Institute as the top-performing city in the nation (three years in a row!), these and other economic measures played a significant role in securing that award. 

We ranked FIRST in five-year growth for jobs and FIRST for five-year growth for wages. While those markers contributed to a #1 spot for Best Performing City, there are other top spots where Provo is continuing to show up. We recently ranked as the top city for most satisfied workers, the top city for the job market, and as something that speaks so much to who we are, Provo just ranked as the #1 most charitable city.

I have the regular opportunity to meet with leaders and executives at Provo’s beautiful City Hall. The view from our offices allows me to guide their sights across the city as we take in Provo’s tapestry. What makes Provo appealing to businesses is the same thing that makes it appealing to residents: thriving businesses, world-class educational opportunities, an incredible hospital that offers high-quality care, leisure and recreational opportunities in abundance, and those beloved neighborhoods that still maintain that raise-your-family-here essence.

Provo Advantage Wishes You A Happy Holidays

As we come to the close of 2023 and the second year of the Provo Advantage, we are so thankful for your support and suggestions and your ongoing belief that Provo truly is an incredible place to live and do business.

We wish you Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year! We will see you next year for more incredible Provo Advantage content!

We couldn’t think of a better way to conclude our 2023 By the Numbers series than with a little holiday cheer! Ho Ho Ho.

2023 was a year of impressive economic momentum for Provo City. The Provo Advantage is meant to highlight those successes right to your inbox. So while we may be wrapping up for 2023, The Provo Advantage will continue in 2024.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

And for exit music, here is selection of holiday music from Provo’s amazing music scene! ENJOY!

Leading the Charge in Digital Inclusion for the Fourth Year Running!

I'm thrilled to share some fantastic news with you all. For the fourth year running, Provo City has been named a 'Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer,' a title that fills me with immense pride.

Our city's dedication to digital inclusion is unwavering, as evident by the recent graduation of 46 adults from our ten-week computer class, a part of the 20-year-strong Digital Inclusion Program. This program, a collaborative effort supported by United Way of Utah County, Provo City, Google Fiber, Comcast, Provo School District, Head Start, Intuitive IT and community volunteers, is making a real difference in the lives of our residents.

The National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) has recognized our efforts alongside a record number of trailblazers, acknowledging the essential role of local governments in fostering digitally inclusive communities.

In Provo, we don't just dream of a connected community; we build it. Our vision of a digitally equitable city is about providing each resident the means to access and utilize technology in ways that best serve their individual needs. It's how we strengthen the fabric of our community.

The 'Digital Divide' has long been a barrier, but our Digital Inclusion program is bridging this gap. Even beyond the pandemic, we have not slowed down our efforts; our 20-year commitment has only grown stronger, continuing to reach out to those in need.

From competitive internet service offerings and free Wi-Fi spots to no-cost digital literacy classes and a variety of educational opportunities, we are dedicated to ensuring everyone has the tools they need to succeed. The success stories are countless, with thousands benefiting from our services, inclusive of all ages, backgrounds, and residences in and around Provo.

The journey doesn't end with access. It's about using these tools to unlock opportunities and potential, to bolster self-reliance, and to enhance the economic vibrancy of Provo. Our high level of internet connectivity isn't just a statistic; it's a gateway to a brighter future for every citizen.

I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been a part of this journey. Let's continue to make strides in technology skills and use them to empower our families and strengthen our economy. Together, we are not just participants but leaders in the digital age.

Thank you for your support and belief in Provo's potential.