Georgia has been recognized as the top state in the nation for business success, Republican Gov. Brian Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) announced Wednesday.
Georgia has earned the title of ‘Top State for Business” for 12 consecutive years in an annual survey conducted by Area Development magazine, a leading industry publication.
“While we’ve earned this ranking for over a decade, it’s by no means guaranteed,” Kemp said in a press release. “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!”
Area Development determines top states based on metrics in 15 categories, and input from about 50 leading site consultants who decide where companies invest around the nation.
Founded in 1965, the quarterly magazine is considered a leader in covering corporate site selection and relocation and has a subscriber base of 41,000 senior executives among U.S. corporations.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones said the announcement reflects the partnership between Kemp’s office, the Legislature, state agencies, and local leaders and developers across the state who spearheaded various initiatives to advance the Peach State economically.
“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,” Jones said. “Our workforce continues to excel and serve as an example of why Georgia is the best state to live, work, and raise a family.”
Georgia ranked in the top five in 10 categories, claiming the overall top spot at number one, partly due to the state’s Rural Site Development Initiative that helps local communities invest in development-ready industrial sites.
Speaker of the House Jon Burns noted that Georgia’s place for 12 consecutive years is the direct result of forward-thinking policies and strategic investments.
“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,” Burns said. 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.”
