When international companies invest in America, they cast a vote of confidence in our workforce and economy. Foreign direct investment (FDI) strengthens the U.S. economy and makes it more resilient by fueling innovation, bolstering America’s manufacturing sector, exporting American-made goods and creating millions of high-quality, good-paying jobs. To learn more about how international companies are contributing to the U.S. economy and the communities in which they operate, visit GlobalBusiness.org/In-Your-State.
Across America, international companies are a cornerstone for strengthening local communities and revitalizing the U.S. economy. International companies provide 7.9 million high-quality jobs, increasing employment rates and average wages across the country. In fact, from 2016 to 2021, America’s FDI employment rose 11 percent, while the country’s overall private-sector employment rose only 1.8%. Five states, in particular, have excelled in attracting international investment for new jobs here in America. The top five states with the fastest FDI job growth from 2016 to 2021 are:
#1. Vermont
Vermont comes in first with a 35.2 percent, FDI employment growth rate. Job growth in Vermont is more than triple the national rate.
#2. Idaho
Ranking second is Idaho with its FDI employment rate increased by 34.9 percent. Companies like Shell Oil are investing in the state, with the British company building a new renewable natural gas (RNG) facility in Wendell, Idaho.
#3. Utah
Utah ranks third for the country’s fastest-growing FDI employment rate in the country with a 33.6 percent increase in this five-year span.
#4. North Dakota
North Dakota comes in fourth place with a 31.2 percent FDI employment growth rate.
#5. Montana
Montana ranks fifth, with a 30.7 percent growth rate in FDI employment.