Image

February Founder Feature Spotlights

February 20, 2025

Utah has become a growing hotspot for entrepreneurship thanks to its thriving business environment, supportive policies, and culture of innovation. Here are some Utah companies that showcase the state’s dynamic entrepreneurial community.

Medicaidsoft 

With decades of Medicaid expertise, Medicaidsoft’s team banded together to create a software solution to streamline the rigorous application process.

It seems strong leadership was always in the company’s future. CEO Spencer Taylor jokes, “I’ve wanted to run a business since I was very young, ever since my mom told me she named me to sound like a CEO.” In a more practical take for other entrepreneurs, he says, “Be impetuous. It beats being perfect.”

In addition to investments from the founding team and an early angel investor, Medicaidsoft has gained support from local organizations, including its most recent success in winning the top cash prize at Utah Tech Week’s pitch competition.

Reflecting on the state’s impact, Taylor says, “Utah’s ecosystem is different. Entrepreneurs here have drive and exuberance that power good ideas and business models. It’s all wrapped in a great ecosystem that’s focused on growth. Utah’s startup scene is maturing, and I’m bullish about it.”

Go Pave Utah 

Go Pave Utah is a family-owned company offering asphalt patching, paving, and concrete work. It serves a diverse clientele, from commercial property managers to big-box retailers and municipalities.

Founder Barney Boynton always wanted to start a business and was bolstered by mentors and friends along the way, particularly a best friend and his entrepreneur father.

While the company is self-funded, The Mill Entrepreneurship Center and Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses helped with knowledge and business growth. According to Boynton, “Utah has an absolute abundance of opportunity.”

When it comes to advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, he says, “Start. Go. Never quit.”

Fudge Co. 

Fudge Co. specializes in handmade fudge and confections from high-quality ingredients. The company’s origin is a family fudge recipe passed down four generations.

Founder Patience Wayman always wanted to start a business, especially after receiving a remarkable positive response to first selling her candy. As her entrepreneurial journey grew, her husband and family were an overwhelming source of support.

In addition to bootstrapped funding, Utah’s Small Business Development Center and The Mill Entrepreneurship Center helped her build a business plan and gain knowledge.

Wayman, a born and bred Utahn, enjoys giving back to the state that shaped her. She says, “Utah has been my home my entire life. I love this state, and I love the opportunity to have a positive impact in my community.”

Thank you to these companies for being a part of Utah’s startup community.  Share your story with us for the chance for your company to be featured. 


The information in this article is current as of the publishing date and is intended for informational purposes only. This article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax, or business advice. Any resources and organizations mentioned, unless an entity of or a partner of the state of Utah, are not formally endorsed by the Startup State Initiative or state of Utah.