The Los Angeles Business Journal named Santa Clarita " the best city for industrial development," citing the city's business friendly practices, long-term planning and successes in supporting targeted business sectors as reasons for selecting Santa Clarita for the award.

"What is good for business is good for Santa Clarita and we continue to do everything we can as a municipal government to help businesses thrive," said Ken Pulskamp, Santa Clarita City Manager.

In 2007, Santa Clarita was named one of Los Angeles County's most business-friendly cities by the Los Angeles Economic Development Corp. for the second year in a row.

Additionally, the city of Santa Clarita's film program, which is a part of the city's economic development division, was named the "best economic development program" in the state by the California Association for Local Economic Development.

Fiscal Year 2006-2007 proved to be one of the best to date for the film program, processing more than 300 film permits representing 850 days of filming and $21 million in economic impact to Santa Clarita and its businesses.

In 2007, the city launched its new City/Sheriff Business Alliance program, providing City-based businesses with a designated Sheriff Sergeant to work with businesses on crime and prevention issues.

Custom presentations for businesses dealing with identity theft, check cashing and bank robbery have been provided as part of a free "lunch and learn" program.

Th city's Enterprise Zone is a new designation providing businesses with employee, equipment, and sales and use tax credits from the State. For most businesses, the Enterprise Zone could help save tens of thousands of dollars annually, providing Santa Clarita with a strong competitive advantage over other Southern California cities.

Most importantly, Santa Clarita is a growing community offering ample business opportunities. Examples of successful industrial and commercial development areas include the Valencia Industrial Center, the Rye Canyon Business Park, Old Town Newhall and Centre Point Business Park.

For more information on opening a business in the City of Santa Clarita, contact the city's Economic Development Division at 661-255-4369 or visit http://www.WorkSantaClarita.com.