Georgia has been named the top state for business by Area Development magazine for the 12th 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 scores in 15 categories, determined through input from around 50 leading site consultants nationwide.
“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 commented on the importance of collaboration across various sectors within Georgia. “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,” said Jones. “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 strategies that contributed to this recognition. “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,” said Burns. “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 ranked among the top five states in ten different categories while securing first place overall in Area Development’s survey series, which has now run annually for sixteen years. The state’s ongoing Rural Site Development Initiative supports local communities by preparing industrial sites ready for development.
GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson pointed out that continued success requires intentional effort over time: “Success in economic development is intentional. It takes years of planning, investment, and strong partnerships to achieve and sustain this level of success,” Wilson said. “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 was established in 1965 as a publication focused on corporate site selection decisions affecting major U.S. corporations.
The GDEcD serves as Georgia’s lead agency responsible for attracting new business investment into Georgia as well as promoting existing industries including film production.
