Utah’s resilient economy continues to outperform the nation. Record-low unemployment, top-ranked labor force participation, and competitive living costs mark our elite standing among states. This success took intention and understanding from policymakers and business leaders alike. As we look to the future, decision-makers are asking the necessary questions to help maintain life quality in our state: How do we support, enhance, and expand the distinctive features Utahns value? How can we retain our elite economy with rising costs? What features define the “New Utah,” and how can decision-makers best understand them?

For our April 2024 Newsmaker Breakfast, the Gardner Institute was joined by business and community leaders to discuss current efforts to create a strategy for sustained prosperity in Utah. The event was co-sponsored by the Salt Lake Chamber. 

Gardner Institute Director Natalie Gochnour moderated the discussion. 

Panelists

Derek Miller, President & CEO, Salt Lake Chamber

Rep. Carl R. Albrecht, Utah House of Representatives 

Phil Dean, Chief Economist, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute