The rankings are arranged based on feedback from a survey of national real estate executives, and a review of Indiana's economic development record.They’re also determined by performance of the state in Conway Data's New Plant Database, which tracks new and expanded business facility activity, and also by a survey of corporate site seekers across the country. The survey asked companies to identify the top 10 state business climates, taking into consideration such factors as lack of red tape, financial assistance and government officials' cooperation. Respondents were also asked to rank the factors most important to them when determining a location for a new facility.

The Site Selection ranking was released this week in the magazine's November issue. More than a month ago, Area Development magazine rated Indiana's business climate best in the Midwest and fifth overall in the nation, according to a survey of national site selection consultants. The state was also ranked as top in the nation for rail and highway accessibility and was among the consultants' second pick as a state leading in the economic recovery.

"Companies are finding Indiana at record pace this year as our state continues to be a standout choice for companies to locate and thrive," said Dan Hasler, Secretary of Commerce and CEO of the Indiana Economic Development Corp. "The Hoosier State earns its renowned reputation every day by offering a skilled workforce, tremendous transportation infrastructure and friendly space for entrepreneurs to make their visions a reality."  

Read the list for the top 25 best business climate states: http://www.siteselection.com/issues/2011/nov/cover.cfm