By Secretary of State Phil McGrane
Highlights from the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office
June 5, 2026
558,000 Reasons Idaho is on the Right Track
One of the responsibilities of the Idaho Secretary of State’s Office is maintaining the state’s business registry. While many people know our office for elections, we also serve more than 558,000 business entities registered across Idaho.
That puts us in a unique position to see the health of Idaho’s economy up close. And right now, the view looks strong. We set a record for business filings in 2025, had more than 26,000 new businesses registered in just the last six months, and we’re seeing no signs of slowing down.
It makes sense. Idaho has earned a reputation as one of the best states in the country to do business. Here we have a strong work ethic and a spirit of ingenuity that runs from our chip manufacturers to our farms to the solo freelancer working out of a spare bedroom. As one of the least-regulated states in the nation, we have created an environment where these businesses can thrive.
But behind the numbers are people. Your neighbors, friends, and fellow Idahoans who run shops, create jobs, sponsor Little League teams, and show up for their communities every day.
So next time you have a choice, buy local. Idaho business is strong. Let’s keep it that way.
Phil McGrane
About Phil McGrane
Phil McGrane was elected Idaho’s twenty-eighth Secretary of State and took office on January 2, 2023. McGrane served as elected Clerk of Ada County from 2019-2022. McGrane holds a bachelor's degree in philosophy, a juris doctorate, and a Master of Public Administration. As a fourth-generation Idahoan, Phil has dedicated his career to making elections in the state of Idaho accessible, secure and transparent.
