All of the data in the categories — developed with the assistance of groups including the National Association of Manufacturers and the Council on Competitiveness — are publicly available.

We like to think America’s Top States for Business is the most thorough study of state competitiveness out there, and it always generates lots of conversation, in the top states, the bottom states and everywhere in between. And this year we want to give you more opportunities than ever to talk about your state.

Let us hear from you, onFacebook, Google+ and on Twitter using the hashtag #TopStates. We’ve also invited all 50 governors to chime in and make the case for why their state should be on top.

Tell us what you think, watch this space, and watch CNBC throughout the day, as we reveal America’s Top States for Business 2012.

Which state has what it takes to be No. 1? Watch Scott Cohn on CNBC today as he reveals the top five of America’s Top States for Business 2012.

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