Warren County ranked second only to Albany County in annual business formation growth, according to the Center for Economic Growth.
An analysis of U.S. Census Bureau data recently published by CEG shows that 13,743 businesses in the eight-county Capital Region filed for an Employer Identification Number with the International Revenue Service in 2021.
That is a 45% year-to-year increase.
EDC Warren County believes that the county’s growth can, partially, be attributed to the increased desire to maintain a healthy balance between work and personal life. This has been coveted since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
John Wheatley, vice president of EDC Warren County, said in a news release that the balance is not possible if businesses and the people who work for them don’t have broadband access.
“Broadband availability is a critical component of business formation growth in Warren County and the Adirondacks,” he said.
EDC Warren County continues to work to expand broadband throughout the county. This paves the way for sustainable business growth.
“Since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been close to 3,000 addresses connected to fiber-based service, particularly in the more rural areas of the county,” Wheatley said. “Having access to high-speed broadband enables many people to easily transition to remote work opportunities and we see that trend continuing in the post-pandemic era.”
Access to tourism destinations and recreational activities considered to be world-class increases the quality of professional and personal life for county residents, according to EDC Warren County.
Jim Siplon, president of EDC Warren County, said in a news release said the current economic development wave is unique because it isn’t people alone looking to move here.
Companies are coming too.
“Every day I meet new and potential professionals who are seeking affordable housing, access to major markets without having to live in them and the ability to live a unique and fulfilling lifestyle that includes access to nature and recreation. Warren County is all of that,” he said.
