Just over a month after being named America’s Top State for Business by CNBC, Virginia has received another No. 1 ranking. The Commonwealth has been named the most pro-business state in the country by the 2011 Pollina Corporate Real Estate study: “Pollina Corporate Top 10 Pro-Business States for 2011: The Rise of the West.” Not only is it the third consecutive year that Virginia has taken home top honors, the Commonwealth won the 2011 top-ranking by the largest victory margin in the history of the study.

In its eighth year, the study is considered the “Gold Standard” in evaluating states by using a comprehensive ranking system based on factors ranging from taxes, right-to-work legislation, infrastructure spending and economic incentive programs. 

This year, Virginia lead over the number two spot by 44 points and was dubbed, “the brightest star on the American Flag,” in terms of its pro-business climate. But it’s not just our top spot status that garners such a prestigious title – the Commonwealth has held the top spot five times since the study began, with second place finishes in 2005 and 2006 and third place in 2008. Our consistent presence among the top pro-business states is proof that the Commonwealth has been and will continue to be open for business.

Virginia’s pro-business reputation was also reaffirmed this year by our second place finish in the Labor, Taxes and Other Factors category and our first place finish in the Incentives and Economic Development Agency Factors, which sites the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) as one of the “finest economic development organizations in the nation.” The Commonwealth also performed strongly in the Education and Infrastructure categories and continues to shine on its Report Card.

All of us at VEDP couldn’t be prouder to represent our state and are committed to keeping Virginia the best state for business.

Click here for more information on the rankings and to see the full report.