Digital Infrastructure Boosts 280,000 Jobs Nationwide: Key Insights from GoDaddy and UCLA Anderson

Since the pandemic began, investment in digital infrastructure has led to a significant surge in job creation. Recent data from GoDaddy and the UCLA Anderson Forecast highlights that over 280,000 jobs have been created nationwide due to improvements in digital infrastructure between April 2020 and March 2024. This surge, equivalent to the population of Reno, underscores the pivotal role of digital advancements in driving economic growth.

1. Job Creation Overview
   • National Impact: Over 280,000 jobs created due to digital infrastructure investments, reflecting a substantial economic boost.
   • Data Source: Insights from GoDaddy’s Venture Forward research initiative and the UCLA Anderson Forecast.
2. Regional Growth
   • South and Southeast: These regions have seen unparalleled growth in microbusiness activity and job creation due to digital infrastructure improvements.
   • Top States: Specific states with the highest growth in the infrastructure index over the past four years are highlighted.
3. Microbusiness Activity Index (MAI)
   • Components: The MAI report includes three subindices:
     • Digital Infrastructure: Measures access to internet, computers, and local human capital.
     • Participation: Evaluates the number of microbusiness entrepreneurs and ventures.
     • Engagement: Assesses the activity level of business websites.
   • Job Correlation: A one-point increase in the infrastructure index corresponds to an increase of 89 jobs in a county.
4. Expert Insights
   • Alexandra Rosen: Emphasizes that reliable broadband connectivity is crucial for economic opportunity and prosperity, particularly when combined with business skills.
   • William Yu: Highlights the correlation between improved digital infrastructure and increased microbusiness activity, stressing the importance of broadband investment for economic growth.

The recent data reveals that investments in digital infrastructure are creating significant job opportunities and boosting microbusiness activity, particularly in the South and Southeast regions. This trend demonstrates the vital role of digital connectivity in driving economic prosperity and entrepreneurial success across the nation.