State Business Leaders Re-investing in Oklahoma
OKLAHOMA CITY (May 9, 2025)– A large majority of Oklahoma business leaders believe that our state is “on the right track” and plan on investing more in their companies. However, they remain concerned about the availability of a skilled workforce. This data and more are the findings of the 2025 Oklahoma Business Leaders Poll. The study provides the latest and most comprehensive insight into the thoughts and opinions of the state’s business community.
The State Chamber, the Oklahoma Business Roundtable, and the State Chamber Research Foundation (SCRF) collaborate each year to produce the Business Leaders Poll (BLP). The annual survey asks business leaders throughout Oklahoma incisive questions about the state of business in Oklahoma. The poll’s purpose is to create a comprehensive overview of business leaders’ top concerns and provide a guide for growth to the legislators who shape the state’s economic and business development initiatives. BLP is the only scientific, statewide survey that annually measures business community perspectives. This year’s Business Leaders Poll surveyed over 300 business owners and executives across Oklahoma.
Key Insights from the 2025 BLP:
- 70% believe Oklahoma is on the right track—more optimistic than their view of the national economy.
- Workforce tops the list of concerns for Oklahoma Business for the 4th straight year.
- 88% plan to invest in Oklahoma; the top barrier is workforce availability.
- 84% say improving health outcomes would strengthen the workforce and reduce costs.
- 70% prioritize infrastructure investment over personal income tax cuts.
“The numbers show companies are bullish on the future of Oklahoma’s economy and are ready to put their money back into our state,” said Amanda Hall of the State Chamber Research Foundation. “They’re struggling to find the workers with the skills that they need for their business to grow. Workforce is still the top concern but it’s not as clear cut as in years past. The survey shows tax reform is important but not at the cost of key infrastructure and services.”
“Oklahoma business leaders remain optimistic about the state’s future. However, workforce challenges—particularly in recruiting and retention—remain significant obstacles to growth,” said Mark Funke, president and CEO of Oklahoma Business Roundtable. “The data shows business leaders believe that greater investment in marketing Oklahoma is essential to attract talent and promote the state’s products and economic opportunities.
Click here for the full 2025 Oklahoma Business Leaders Poll report.
Media Contact: Brent Skarky – 405-818-1939, brent@okstatechamber.com
