The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) released its 2025 U.S. Innovation Scorecard, evaluating all 50 states across 11 public policy categories. Four new categories—Blockchain, Data Privacy, Grid Preparedness, and Manufacturing—were introduced to reflect the evolving foundations of technological innovation.
Twelve states earned the top designation of Innovation Champions: Georgia, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, South Dakota, Texas, Tennessee, Utah, and Washington. These states demonstrated consistent growth in commerce, supply chain efficiency, and cross-state medical care through innovative technologies.
The categories assess state policies on blockchain, data privacy protections, energy supply-demand balance, and manufacturing strength, complementing the seven categories from the 2023 Scorecard. Honored states prioritize tech infrastructure and solutions in robotics, AI, and smart homes, enhancing millions of lives.
Notably, six states—Kansas, Nevada, North Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Washington—retained their “Innovation Champion” status from the 2023 Scorecard.
Utah’s status as a technologically innovative state stems from a combination of factors that create a fertile environment for tech development, entrepreneurship, and research including:
• Innovation Ecosystems: Utah cultivates interconnected “innovation ecosystems” driven by higher education, a skilled workforce, and a collaborative culture.
• The “Silicon Slopes” region is a burgeoning tech hub hosting giants like Adobe, Oracle, and Dell EMC, alongside homegrown successes like Qualtrics, Pluralsight, Vivint, and other standouts.
• University-Driven Innovation: The University of Utah is a powerhouse, launching over 330 startups and licensing 23 technologies in FY2024 alone. Its Technology Licensing Office ranks the university among the top 100 globally for U.S. utility patents.
• Business-Friendly Environment: Utah consistently ranks high for business, with Forbes naming it the best state for business multiple times due to low taxes, and flexible regulations.
• Skilled Workforce and Education: Utah’s STEM education investments, like the 2001 Engineering and Computer Technology Initiative, have made it first in STEM degree growth since 2016.
Utah’s blend of academic research, a vibrant tech scene, supportive policies, and a pro-business climate positions it as a top innovator.
You can explore the full report and read state-by-state profiles here.