As international businesses increasingly look to establish or expand their presence in the United States, choosing the right location has become more crucial. The American business landscape 2025 presents diverse opportunities across different regions, each offering unique advantages for international employers. This comprehensive analysis examines the most strategic locations for international businesses, considering evolving workforce trends, established business ecosystems, and state-specific support for international companies.

The traditional coastal business centers no longer monopolize talent and opportunity. Innovation hubs have emerged nationwide, offering compelling combinations of cost efficiency, skilled workforce availability, and business-friendly environments. This guide provides international business leaders with actionable insights into the most promising locations for hiring and establishing operations in the United States based on current data and forward-looking trends for 2025.

Regional Overview and Trends

The Mountain Region

The Mountain states have emerged as a powerhouse for international employment, demonstrating the strongest regional growth in high-skilled positions during 2024-2025 at 34.2%. This region, encompassing Utah, Colorado, Idaho, and Montana, offers a unique combination of advantageous tax structures and high quality of life, resulting in a 42% increase in international company registrations during 2024. The average cost of operations runs 45% lower than coastal hubs while maintaining high productivity rates – Mountain region employees show the highest satisfaction scores nationally at 4.2/5.

Key regional advantages for international employers (2025):

• Average corporate tax rate of 5.2% (lowest in the nation)
• Regional talent retention rate of 88% (highest nationwide)
• 8% digital connectivity rate
• Median age of 32.4 years (youngest workforce demographic)
• 41% of the workforce holds a bachelor’s degree or higher

The Southeast Corridor

The Southeast has become a major destination for international businesses, particularly in financial services and technology. The region saw a 28.5% increase in international company establishments in 2024, driven by favorable business regulations and lower operational costs. States like Georgia, Florida, and North Carolina have developed sophisticated infrastructure for international business support, including dedicated offices for foreign company establishment and talent acquisition.

Regional metrics important for international employers (2025):

• Operating costs are 32% below the national average.
• 165,000+ new STEM graduates annually across major institutions
• 31% lower real estate costs compared to the Northeast
• International business registration processing is 40% faster than the national average.
• Regional investment in digital infrastructure exceeded $12B in 2024
• 72% of the workforce certified in digital skills (up from 54% in 2023)

The Midwest Innovation Belt

The Midwest has successfully leveraged its manufacturing heritage to create innovation hubs in Industry 4.0, mobility technology, and sustainable manufacturing. International investment in the region grew by 25.8% in 2024, with particular interest from European and Asian manufacturing companies. States like Michigan, Ohio, Illinois and Indiana offer unique advantages in specialized talent pools and established international business communities.

Regional characteristics beneficial for international employers (2025):

• Manufacturing technology talent pool of 380,000+ specialists
• 45% lower operational costs compared to coastal tech hubs
• Strong existing international business communities (mainly German, Japanese, and Korean)
• 92% of major universities offer industry-specific training programs
• Regional economic development agencies provided $850M in international business incentives in 2024

The Pacific Northwest Ecosystem

The Pacific Northwest continues to evolve beyond its traditional tech focus, developing specialized clusters in sustainable technology, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing. In 2024, international investment in the region grew by 23.4%, particularly in the clean technology and digital infrastructure sectors. States like Washington, Oregon and Idaho offer unique advantages in environmental innovation and specialized technical talent.

Regional advantages for international employers (2025):

• Renewable energy costs 22% below national average
• 128,000+ specialists in sustainable technology
• Direct international flight connections increased by 35% in 2024
• 94% of the workforce with advanced digital literacy
• Regional investment in AI infrastructure reached $5.8B in 2024
• Strong intellectual property protection frameworks

Detailed State Analysis

Mountain Region States

Utah: The Mountain Region’s International Business Gateway

Utah’s Silicon Slopes has emerged as one of America’s fastest-growing technology hubs, offering international companies an ideal combination of business-friendly policies and established global connections. The region has seen a 42% increase in international business registrations during 2024, with notable success stories including Adobe’s Digital Experience division (2,500+ employees), Siemens’ Digital Twin Development Center (800+ positions), and Australian tech giant Atlassian’s second-largest global office (1,200+ employees). The state’s strategic location, combined with its young, highly educated workforce (median age 31.2 years) and cost of living 32% below coastal tech hubs, creates an attractive environment for international companies establishing their US presence.

Educational Powerhouses:

• University of Utah’s semiconductor partnership with TSMC produces 400 industry-ready graduates annually, with guaranteed internship placements for international partner companies
• Weber State University’s International Business Program maintains a 92% job placement rate through direct partnerships with global enterprises and customized training programs
• Utah Valley University’s Global Training Center offers rapid technical certification programs in emerging technologies, with specialized tracks for international employee transfers

International Business Advantages:

• World’s fastest business registration process for international companies (average 12 days) through Utah’s Global Fast-Track Program, with dedicated multilingual support in 8 languages
• One-stop International Business Resource Center providing comprehensive setup support, including visa processing assistance and regulatory compliance guidance
• Direct connections to the Silicon Slopes tech community, including mentorship programs and strategic partnerships with established international companies

Financial Incentives:

• International Business Development Fund offering up to $2M in tax credits for companies creating high-paying jobs, with additional incentives for technology sector positions
• Research and development grants matching up to 30% of investment for international companies establishing innovation centers
• Employee training reimbursement program covering up to 50% of costs for technical skills development, with additional support for international talent recruitment

Colorado: The Innovation Corridor’s Global Hub

Colorado’s Denver-Boulder corridor has established itself as an aerospace, cybersecurity, and clean technology powerhouse. The region attracted over $3.8B in international investment during 2024, with major expansions from Lockheed Martin’s Space Systems (3,000+ employees), German automotive consortium’s autonomous vehicle center (1,200+ positions), and Japanese tech giant Rakuten’s 5G innovation lab (600+ engineers). The state’s commitment to innovation, backed by one of the nation’s highest concentrations of advanced degree holders (44.4% of the workforce) and a thriving outdoor lifestyle, has created an exceptional environment for international technology companies.

Educational Powerhouses:

• Colorado School of Mines’ partnership with European manufacturers offers specialized programs in autonomous systems and advanced materials, producing 350 industry-ready graduates annually
• University of Colorado Boulder’s Quantum Technology Center, partnered with IBM, provides direct access to cutting-edge research and talent in quantum computing and AI
• Denver International Business Institute facilitates the seamless integration of international employees through specialized technical and cultural training programs

International Business Advantages (2025):

• $50M International Business Attraction Fund providing expedited setup support and infrastructure development for foreign companies
• Advanced visa processing system with dedicated support for technical talents, offering 40% faster processing times than the national average
• Comprehensive intellectual property protection framework with specialized support for international technology companies

Financial Incentives:

• Advanced Industries Acceleration Fund offering matching grants up to $5M for international companies in key technology sectors
• Research and development tax credits covering up to 25% of qualifying expenses for innovation activities
• Job growth incentive tax credit providing up to 50% of FICA taxes for new high-paying jobs.

Southeast Corridor States

Georgia: The Southeast’s Technology and Financial Gateway

In 2024, Georgia experienced a notable increase in FDI, with a 10.3% rise in the second quarter, totaling $574.3 million compared to the same period in 2023. This growth was primarily driven by equity investments and reinvestments. The United Kingdom led as the largest investor, contributing $266.7 million (46.4% of total FDI), followed by Japan with $59.2 million (10.3%), and Malta with $37.9 million (6.6%). The financial and insurance sectors attracted the most investment, receiving $300.1 million (52.3%), followed by trade at $79.2 million (13.8%), and manufacturing at $55.5 million (9.7%). Georgia’s strategic location, with the world’s busiest airport and the cost of living 42% below major tech hubs, provides international companies with an ideal entry point into the US market.

Educational Powerhouses:

• Georgia Tech produces 12,000 technology graduates annually, with specialized programs developed in partnership with international technology companies
• Emory University’s International Business School, ranked #3 globally for fintech, offers direct industry placement programs with 89% success rate
• Georgia State University’s International Student Success Program provides comprehensive talent pipeline development for global companies

International Business Advantages (2025):

• Atlanta International Business Center provides end-to-end support for foreign companies, including regulatory compliance and market entry strategies
• Dedicated liaison officers for major trading partner countries, offering personalized support throughout the business establishment process
• Fast-track permitting system reducing setup time by 60% compared to other major US cities.

Financial Incentives:

• International Business Development Credits offering up to $3M in tax relief for companies creating high-wage technology jobs
• Innovation Fund matching up to 35% of capital investment for R&D facilities.
• Workforce development grants covering up to 45% of employee training costs

Florida: The Americas’ Financial Services Capital

Florida has cemented its position as a major financial services hub, particularly for companies targeting North and South American markets. The state attracted $12B in international financial sector investment during 2024, with significant expansions from Citadel (2,500+ employees), Santander’s Digital Banking Center (1,800+ positions), and numerous European fintech operations. Florida’s tax-friendly environment, strategic location, and multicultural workforce create an ideal environment for international financial and technology operations.

Educational Powerhouses:

• University of Miami’s International Finance Program offers specialized fintech training with direct industry placement programs
• Florida International University’s Global Business Hub produces 3,000 bilingual business graduates annually
• University of Florida’s AI & Financial Technology Center provides cutting-edge research and talent development in partnership with global financial institutions

International Business Advantages (2025):

• No state income tax for individuals and streamlined regulatory environment for international financial operations
• FinTech Fast Track program offering expedited licensing for international financial services companies
• Comprehensive support for cryptocurrency and blockchain operations with clear regulatory frameworks

Financial Incentives:

• Financial Services Technology Grant Program offering up to $4M for companies establishing innovative operations
• The International Banking Incentive Program provides tax benefits for global financial operations.
• Workforce development credits covering up to 40% of training costs for financial technology roles

Midwest Innovation Belt States

Michigan: Global Leader in Mobility Technology

Michigan has transformed its automotive heritage into a cutting-edge mobility technology ecosystem. The state attracted $8.2B in international investment during 2024, led by Toyota’s Autonomous Vehicle Center (1,500+ engineers), Bosch’s expanded R&D operations (2,200+ positions), and Korean battery manufacturer SK Innovation’s technical center (800+ engineers). Michigan’s unique combination of manufacturing expertise, research institutions, and established international business communities makes it an ideal location for mobility, robotics, and advanced manufacturing companies.

Educational Powerhouses:

• University of Michigan’s robotics program ranked #1 nationally, graduates 600+ specialists annually with direct industry placement programs for international partners
• Michigan State’s International Engineering Program offers specialized tracks in mobility technology and advanced manufacturing, with a 94% placement rate
• Wayne State’s Global Automotive Studies provides customized training programs for international manufacturers, with dedicated support for employee upskilling

International Business Advantages (2025):

• Automated Vehicle Innovation Center provides regulatory fast-track and testing facilities for international mobility companies.
• Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s dedicated international business division offers comprehensive setup and expansion support.
• Established international business corridors with strong German, Japanese, and Korean business communities

Financial Incentives:

• Critical Industry Program offering up to $5M in support for advanced mobility and manufacturing projects
• Battery and EV Manufacturing Credits provide substantial tax benefits for green technology investments.
• Strategic Fund grants matching up to 40% of workforce development costs for technical roles

Ohio: Advanced Manufacturing and Insurance Technology Hub

Ohio has emerged as a leader in innovative manufacturing and insurtech innovation, attracting significant international investment. The state secured $6.5B in foreign direct investment during 2024, with major projects from Swiss Re’s Innovation Center (1,200+ employees), Munich Re’s Digital Operations (900+ positions), and numerous European manufacturing technology companies. With its strong manufacturing base and growing technology sector, Ohio’s strategic location provides international companies with an ideal environment for advanced manufacturing and financial technology operations.

Educational Powerhouses:

• Ohio State’s Advanced Manufacturing Initiative partners with global manufacturers to produce 800+ specialized graduates annually
• Case Western’s International Technology Program leads in Industry 4.0 research and development, with direct industry collaboration
• University of Cincinnati’s Global Business Center specializes in insurance technology and digital transformation

International Business Advantages (2025):

• Manufacturing Extension Partnership provides comprehensive support for international manufacturers entering the US market.
• InsurTech Accelerator Program offers fast-track licensing and regulatory support for international insurance companies.
• JobsOhio’s International Division provides end-to-end support for foreign business establishments.

Financial Incentives:

• Advanced Manufacturing Credits offering up to $3M for technology-driven manufacturing operations
• The Insurance Technology Development Fund provides matching grants for innovation projects.
• Workforce Development Program covering up to 45% of specialized training costs

Pacific Northwest Ecosystem States

Washington: Innovation Leader in Cloud Computing and Sustainable Technology

Washington state has established itself as a global leader in cloud computing, sustainable technology, and aerospace innovation. The region attracted $9.8B in international investment during 2024, anchored by Microsoft’s expanded international engineering center (3,000+ positions), the Japanese clean energy consortium’s research facility (1,200+ engineers), and numerous European aerospace suppliers. The state’s commitment to sustainability, highly skilled workforce, and strong international trade connections create an optimal environment for technology-focused global companies.

Educational Powerhouses:

• University of Washington’s Global Innovation Exchange, partnered with international technology leaders, produces 1,500+ advanced technology graduates annually
• Washington State University’s International Business Program specializes in sustainable technology and clean energy innovation
• Seattle University’s Technology Management Center offers dedicated programs for international technical talent development

International Business Advantages (2025):

• Clean Technology Fast Track Program provides expedited permitting and regulatory support for sustainable technology companies
• Pacific Rim Trade Corridor offering strategic advantages for Asian and Pacific market access
• Comprehensive intellectual property protection framework with specialized support for international innovation

Financial Incentives:

• Green Technology Fund offering up to $4M in tax incentives for sustainable technology projects.
• International Innovation Grants matching up to 35% of R&D investments
• Technical Talent Development Program covering up to 50% of specialized training costs

Oregon: Leader in Semiconductor and Sustainable Manufacturing

Oregon is a crucial hub for semiconductor manufacturing and sustainable technology development. The state secured $5.4B in international investment during 2024, led by Intel’s expanded R&D operations (2,500+ engineers), European clean tech research centers (1,100+ positions), and Asian semiconductor equipment suppliers. Oregon’s strategic focus on high-tech manufacturing, commitment to sustainability, and lower operating costs provide international companies with unique advantages in the technology and manufacturing sectors.

Educational Powerhouses:

• Oregon State’s International Engineering Program specializes in semiconductor technology and sustainable manufacturing, producing 500+ industry-ready graduates annually
• Portland State’s Sustainable Technology Center leads in green technology innovation with direct industry partnerships
• Oregon Institute of Technology’s Semiconductor Training Program offers specialized certification for international workforce development

International Business Advantages (2025):

• Semiconductor Fast Track Initiative provides comprehensive support for chip manufacturing and design companies
• Sustainable Manufacturing Program offering regulatory and infrastructure support for green technology operations
• Strategic trade connections with Asian markets through Portland’s international port

Financial Incentives:

• Strategic Investment Program offering long-term tax benefits for large-scale manufacturing operations
• Green Manufacturing Credits provide substantial incentives for sustainable technology development
• Workforce Training Fund matching up to 40% of technical skill development costs

Future Growth and Market Predictions

Current market trends reveal significant shifts in the American business landscape through 2025. According to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, foreign direct investment in US operations grew by 23% in 2024, with particularly strong performance in the Mountain states (34.2%) and the Southeast corridor (31.5%). The Department of Commerce reports that mid-sized cities are gaining prominence, with areas like Salt Lake City, Atlanta, and Denver seeing international business registrations increase by 35% in the past year.

The same report indicates that by late 2025, approximately 42% of international companies entering the US will prioritize access to specialized talent pools over traditional business center locations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that states with comprehensive global business support infrastructure will capture 65% of new foreign direct investment in 2025. Additionally, Forbes reports that hybrid work models continue to influence location decisions, with 68% of international companies maintaining flexible arrangements.

Conclusion: Your Path to US Expansion

Navigating US expansion requires expert guidance and deep market understanding. As expansion experts, Foothold America has successfully guided numerous international businesses through their US journey, helping them select optimal locations and establish efficient operations across all regions discussed in this guide. Our team brings extensive experience in entity establishment, compliance management, and workforce development across all major US markets.

Contact Foothold America’s expansion experts to begin your journey into the US market with confidence, backed by professionals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing international businesses in 2025 and beyond.