Colorado ranked No. 4 state for business by CNBC

• Last year, we were ranked eighth.

Details: The state received high marks based on the strength of its workforce — at the top of the heap nationwide — as well as its education system, technology and innovation.

• Yes, but: We were docked points for our high cost of living, access to capital and cost of doing business. In that last category, Colorado ranks 36th nationwide.

Of note: North Carolina snagged the No. 1 spot — the state's first time at the top.