News Summary
Georgia has been recognized as the No. 1 state for business for the twelfth consecutive year by Area Development magazine. The ranking reflects input from site consultants and emphasizes Georgia’s strong commitment to economic development and investment opportunities. The state’s initiatives, including the Rural Site Development Initiative, aim to prepare local communities for industrial growth. In the past year, Georgia created over 23,000 private-sector jobs, attracting record investments and showcasing its commitment to a skilled workforce to meet future demands.
Atlanta, Georgia – Governor Brian Kemp announced that Georgia has been recognized as the No. 1 state for business by Area Development magazine for the twelfth consecutive year. This ranking highlights Georgia’s ongoing success in economic development and solidifies its reputation as a favorable location for business investment.
The annual poll conducted by Area Development is based on scores across 15 categories, reflecting input from around 50 leading site consultants nationwide. These site selectors have deemed Georgia the best state for business, indicating that companies continue to see Georgia as an optimal choice for investment.
Governor Kemp highlighted that this achievement is a testament to the state’s consistent commitment and collaborative effort among various stakeholders, including government officials, legislators, and local leaders. The hard work and dedication from these groups have played a critical role in propelling Georgia to the top of the rankings.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of partnerships among stakeholders that have contributed to this success. Speaker of the House Jon Burns credited decades of strong leadership and strategic investments made by the state as key factors underscoring Georgia’s achievement.
Notable Rankings and Initiatives
In the recent Top States for Doing Business Survey, Georgia not only maintained its overall No. 1 ranking but also was recognized in the top five for 10 categories. The state continues its focus on future opportunities through measures such as the Rural Site Development Initiative, aimed at preparing local communities with development-ready industrial sites.
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Commissioner noted that achieving success in economic development is not a coincidence; it requires years of planning, investment, and robust partnerships. This comprehensive approach is reflected in the substantial job growth and investment figures reported by the state.
Job Growth and Economic Investment
In the last year, Georgia has seen a total of 23,300 new private-sector jobs created, with a record-breaking $26.3 billion in new investments for the fiscal year ending June 30. Notably, 77% of this growth occurred outside of the metro Atlanta area, showcasing the expanding business opportunities throughout the state.
Additionally, over $18 million has been allocated to rural communities to assist in developing new industrial sites through various state initiatives. Significant international investments have also played a crucial role in this growth, with the creation of over 6,500 jobs attributed to expansions or new locations from companies located in countries such as the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Canada.
The Importance of Workforce Development
As the state continues to attract new investments and jobs, ongoing investment in workforce programs is essential. This focus aims to prepare Georgians with the necessary skills to meet the requirements of future job opportunities. By fostering a qualified workforce, Georgia positions itself favorably to sustain its growth and adapt to evolving market demands.
Conclusion
Georgia’s recognition as the No. 1 state for business is a significant milestone, reinforcing its leadership in economic development. Through collaboration, strong leadership, and continuous investment strategies, the state is equipped to handle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the competitive business landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The Georgia Virtue
- 11Alive
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- Wikipedia: Georgia (U.S. state)
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Georgia
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
