From the Director

Key Findings

• Emphasis on the TRI program's 10-year history and its role in driving investment, growth, and job creation
• Highlight of Micron Technology's $15 billion investment
• Focus on high-wage job creation and significant capital investments
• Mention of the program's post-performance nature and fiscal responsibility
• Emphasis on the rigorous vetting process for TRI applications

Analysis

Small Business Perspective

Director Tom Kealey's statement provides no mention of initiatives or achievements related to businesses under 20 employees. The emphasis on Micron's massive investment and other large-scale TRI projects underscores the department's focus on big business. The director's pride in creating jobs with wages above the statewide average suggests a preference for larger companies capable of offering such compensation. The rigorous vetting process described likely creates barriers for smaller businesses that may lack the resources to navigate complex application procedures.

Big Business Perspective

From a big business standpoint, the director's message is highly encouraging. The prominent mention of Micron's $15 billion investment sets the tone for the state's ability to attract and support large-scale corporate projects. The focus on high-wage job creation aligns well with the capabilities of larger companies. The post-performance nature of the incentive, while presented as fiscally responsible, is more feasible for large businesses with the financial resources to front significant investments.

The director's statement reveals a clear bias towards big business in Idaho's economic development strategy. As the head of the department, his priorities set the tone for the entire organization. Given the hierarchical nature of government agencies, it's reasonable to assume that this big business focus permeates all levels of the department's operations. While we shouldn't assume that staff have no autonomy, the clear direction from leadership, combined with the structured nature of the TRI program, leaves little room for initiatives focused on small businesses.