There’s more good news for Troy, and in turn, the state of Alabama.

A recent national survey ranked Alabama the second most business-friendly state in the country. The survey, conducted by an oinline service that connects customers to small businesses and a foundation that supports entrepreneurship through grants, ranked states according to 11 aspects of business friendliness, from licensing code to environmental regulations.

Not surprisingly, we fared well – extremely well.

And, earlier this month, the Alabama Policy Institute’s annual ranking of the top 50 business friendly cities in the state gave Troy high marks – ranking us 20th overall and citing several strong factors that appeal to potential businesses and industries.

While both surveys and rankings are simply measurements of statistics and compilations of subjective information, they do serve to highlight the importance creating a culture that fosters, nurtures and enhances business growth and development. Diversifying an economy – from small businesses to cutting-edge industries – lies at the heart of a community, and in turn, a state’s future success. Economic success creates jobs and tax revenues, which fund schools; government services; and quality of life activities. It’s a circle in which success feeds success, a growth nurtures more growth.

So it’s good to hear, once again, that Alabama understands that message and is continuing to foster small businesses.