Google honored Tulsa on Monday, naming it Oklahoma’s eCity of the year.
The award is given to one city in each state, with Edmond receiving the award last year.
The Internet search giant gave the award to Tulsa for having a strong online business community.
According to a press release, a research firm looked at thousands of businesses and their websites across Oklahoma to see which city generated the most online traffic and business.
U.S. Rep. Markwayne Mullin called Google a strong partner in northeast Oklahoma, referencing Google’s Data Center in Pryor.
Mullin said his business, Mullin Plumbing, benefits from Google’s technology, enabling his company and others in the area to operate more efficiently.
“We track our trucks every single day by using Google Maps,” Mullin said. “We’re able to more efficiently track those trucks by the service that Google provides.”
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Mullin said the ability to merge technology and business helps attract young business owners to Tulsa.
“When they get here, Google gives them the opportunity to advertise and represent their company,” Mullin said.
Mike Neal, CEO of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, said Pryor’s data center represents an investment in Oklahoma of more than $700 million.
“We could not be more grateful for that,” Neal said. “Google has been a great partner.”
Oklahoma Finance Secretary Preston Doerflinger said businesses across the state should be looking to Tulsa on how to incorporate technology.
“Tulsa is my hometown, and I’m proud that we’re setting such an example” Doerflinger said. “This is just another reason why Tulsa is a great place to live, visit and certainly to do business.”
