Innovation Incubators: Survey of Entrepreneurs Reveals The Cities Most Supportive of Startups
Every year, more U.S. cities roll up their sleeves to back the dreamers and doers launching startups.
Our survey of the top 150 startup-friendly cities - based on local government support - shows just how widespread this trend has become.
From heavyweights like Dallas and New York City to smaller players like Bozeman and Provo, municipalities are pouring resources into fostering innovation.
We have analyzed this list and pulled out some fresh takes on what’s driving this shift, why it matters, and what it means for entrepreneurs with big ideas.
Here’s what stood out:
Key Findings:
Texas Takes the Lead, But It’s Not Just Big Names
Dallas, Austin, and Houston got the top three spots - Texas has long been a magnet for business with its no-income-tax vibe and pro-growth attitude.
What’s interesting, though, is how these cities aren’t resting on their laurels.
Dallas is leaning into its corporate connections, Austin’s building a tech playground, and Houston’s doubling down on niche industries like energy and aerospace.
Smaller Texas cities like Arlington (No. 64) are creeping up too, proving the Lone Star State’s startup love runs deep.
Florida’s Quiet Rise as a Startup Haven
Florida’s showing up strong with Orlando (No. 4), Tampa (No. 5), and Miami (No. 9) in the top 10.
It’s more than just sunshine and tax breaks drawing founders here.
Orlando’s tapping into university talent, Tampa’s building bridges between founders and industries like logistics, and Miami’s positioning itself as a global gateway with Latin American ties.
This trio’s success hints at a broader shift - Florida’s not just a retirement spot anymore; it’s a launchpad.
Underdog Cities Punch Above Their Weight
Look beyond the usual suspects, and you’ll find places like Buffalo (No. 10), Chattanooga (No. 25), and Boise (No. 97) making waves.
Buffalo’s throwing millions at startups through initiatives like 43North, while Chattanooga’s betting on its lightning-fast internet to lure techies.
Boise’s got that low-cost, high-quality-of-life combination working in its favor.
These smaller cities prove you don’t need a massive budget or a famous skyline - smart, targeted support can level the playing field.
College Towns Are Startup Goldmines
Cities like Ann Arbor (No. 27), Boulder (No. 36), and Athens (No. 40) highlight an emerging advantage: universities.
These spots churn out talent, ideas, and research that startups can tap into.
Ann Arbor’s got Michigan’s brain trust, Boulder’s riding Colorado’s innovation wave, and Athens is leveraging UGA’s energy.
It’s a reminder that proximity to a campus can be a game-changer for founders hunting for both workers and inspiration.
The West’s Wide-Open Opportunity
The western U.S. appears all over this list - Denver (No. 11), Salt Lake City (No. 28), Boise (No. 97), Bozeman (No. 130), and Provo (No. 150) tell the story.
These cities blend outdoor appeal with growing tech scenes, and local governments are jumping in with incentives and infrastructure.
Denver’s got altitude and ambition, while Provo’s riding Utah’s entrepreneurial spirit.
Rust Belt Reinvention
Pittsburgh (No. 26), Detroit (No. 44), and Cleveland (No. 119) signal a Rust Belt comeback.
These cities are shaking off old stereotypes by backing startups with grants, affordable space, and a gritty can-do attitude.
Pittsburgh’s tech pivot, Detroit’s scrappy resurgence, and Cleveland’s slow-but-steady climb show how industrial roots can sprout new growth.
It’s not flashy, but it’s working.
Small States, Big Ambitions
Vermont’s got three cities - Rutland (No. 107), Montpelier (No. 123), and Burlington (No. 128) - on the list, which is impressive for a state its size.
Delaware’s Wilmington (No. 57) and Newark (No. 112) are holding their own too.
These smaller states are proving that a tight-knit community and a little government muscle can go a long way. It’s less about scale and more about focus.
Final Thoughts
This list of 150 cities isn’t just a ranking - it’s a snapshot of how local governments are rewriting their playbooks to back the next big thing.
From Texas titans to Vermont villages, the message is clear: supporting startups isn’t a luxury, it’s a strategy.
Whether it’s tax breaks, mentorship, or just clearing through bureaucracy, these efforts are turning cities into springboards for entrepreneurs.
For anyone with a startup dream, the takeaway’s simple - pick a spot that’s got your back, and you’re already ahead of the game.
