The Economic Development Corporation of Utah (EDCUtah) and the Governor’s Office of Economic Opportunity (GOEO) today announced the signing of a new memorandum of understanding to enhance and clarify their collaboration on economic development throughout the state.

“This new agreement plays well to the strengths of both organizations, and to feedback we’ve received from industry leaders and communities,” said Ryan Starks, EDCUtah executive director. “By leaning into those strengths and unifying our efforts, we’re opening a new, more efficient and effective chapter of economic development in Utah.”

This collaboration represents a proactive shift that enhances teamwork, specifies how the two organizations will collaborate, and reduces redundant effort. By pooling resources and expertise, EDCUtah and GOEO are better equipped to offer exceptional support to communities and growing businesses throughout Utah.

"This new agreement represents a forward-facing evolution for Utah and our aim to help people choose to stay, build, and grow here,” said Jefferson Moss, executive director of GOEO. “Our aim is to work together to provide a seamless, welcoming experience for any business looking to call Utah home, while also providing the best possible support to our local communities."

The new agreement outlines shared responsibilities between the two organizations, including:

• Showcasing Utah Communities: The organizations will co-host engagements, including familiarization tours, allowing site selection consultants to experience Utah's unique people and environments firsthand. These collaborations will highlight opportunities across the state’s diverse economic sectors and include joint work to engage site selection organizations and professionals.

• Streamlined Information Sharing: To facilitate access to essential information, GOEO and EDCUtah are launching a shared statewide online opportunity portal for public sector partners. This new request-for-information (RFI) system will enable both organizations to respond to business inquiries quickly and consistently. EDCUtah’s private sector partners will continue to receive RFIs by email.

• Empowering Local Cities and Towns: GOEO and EDCUtah will continue to provide hands-on support to help local communities prepare for new growth. Together, they will ensure that cities and towns receive coordinated, reliable assistance.

• Proactive Global Outreach: GOEO and EDCUtah will collaborate on national and international outreach trips to actively invite domestic and strategic foreign investment to the state. GOEO will lead strategy and positioning, and EDCUtah will offer vital logistical support to ensure the success of these engagements.

With the agreement signed, EDCUtah and GOEO will now work to operationalize their efforts with the ultimate goal of creating a stronger, more connected economic landscape for Utah to bring more economic development opportunities to Utah’s communities.