Georgia has been named the top state for business by Area Development magazine for the twelfth consecutive year, according to an announcement made by Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD). The ranking is based on input from about 50 leading site consultants nationwide, who evaluated states across 15 categories.
“For 12 straight years, site selectors who decide where companies invest have voted Georgia as the ‘Top State for Business’ in this annual poll from the leading publication for these decisionmakers,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “While we’ve earned this ranking for over a decade, it’s by no means guaranteed. It is a reflection of the sustained commitment we have to excellence and a team approach to economic development. I want to thank and congratulate the incredible GDEcD team, our partners in the legislature, and the local leaders and economic developers all over the state who have yet again made this achievement possible on behalf of hardworking Georgians!”
Lieutenant Governor Burt Jones credited cooperation among state agencies and local leaders: “This announcement is a reflection of the partnership between Governor Kemp’s Office, the legislature, state agencies, and the local leaders and economic developers across our great state whose efforts and initiatives made this achievement possible,” he said. “Along with the work and commitment of these partners, I am grateful for all of the hardworking Georgians who continue to show up every day and invest in their future and the betterment of all Georgians. Our workforce continues to excel and serve as an example of why Georgia is the best state to live, work, and raise a family.”
Speaker of the House Jon Burns highlighted long-term planning: “Georgia’s designation as the No. 1 state for business for 12 consecutive years is the direct result of decades of strong leadership, forward-thinking policies, and strategic investments,” he said. “This accomplishment represents not only historic job creation and economic growth in every corner of our state, but also the opportunity for every Georgian to pursue a brighter future for themselves and their families. The House remains committed to building on this record of success and ensuring that Georgia’s economy and communities continue to thrive for generations to come.”
Georgia placed in the top five in ten categories within Area Development’s rankings while securing first place overall. The survey has been conducted annually for sixteen years.
The state continues its focus on future growth through programs like its Rural Site Development Initiative, which aims to help communities prepare industrial sites ready for development.
“Success in economic development is intentional. It takes years of planning, investment, and strong partnerships to achieve and sustain this level of success,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Through the support of the Georgia General Assembly, local leadership, and our collaborations with sister state agencies, Georgia has been able to strengthen communities and prepare sites for future growth. By combining these efforts with world-class workforce programs and unmatched global connectivity, Georgia is ensuring that companies have what they need to thrive. We appreciate the leadership from Governor and First Lady Kemp and thank Area Development for this recognition.”
Area Development magazine specializes in corporate site selection news since its founding in 1965. Its print edition reaches more than 41,000 senior executives at major U.S. corporations each quarter; its website attracts over 175,000 unique users per quarter.
The GDEcD serves as Georgia’s main agency responsible for attracting new business investment as well as supporting existing industries. The department also promotes tourism along with film and digital entertainment projects throughout Georgia.
