Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp, alongside the Georgia Department of Economic Development, announced record investments in Fiscal Year 2025. According to a press release, the GDEcD’s Global Commerce team supported 423 facility expansions and new locations from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, representing a substantial $26.3 billion in investment and the generation of 23,200 new private-sector jobs over the upcoming years.
Under Kemp's leadership, Georgia has positioned itself as a premier destination for businesses, being named the No. 1 state for business for over a decade. "Georgia has been the No. 1 state for business for over a decade because of our unmatched ability to attract new companies and create an environment where existing employers can grow, and thrive," Kemp stated. The majority of these projects, amounting to 74%, were expansions at pre-existing Georgia companies, building on employment that is already in full swing, according to the same press release.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones highlighted the various workforce programs aimed at sustaining a robust talent pipeline, in collaboration with the University System of Georgia and other educational stakeholders. "We continue to invest in workforce programs to ensure a steady talent pipeline with our existing industry partners: the University System of Georgia, the Technical College System of Georgia, College Career Academies, and other stakeholders. These investments and initiatives will ensure we have a workforce that is growing and able to meet skillsets for jobs of today and tomorrow," Jones said. These programs are seen as a vital contribution to accommodating the current and further demands for skilled labor, as noted by the Governor's Office.
The economic growth is not just centered in Metro Atlanta; 77% of all expansions and new locations took place in communities beyond the 10-county Atlanta region in FY25. Yet, Atlanta still serves as a regional powerhouse, attracting major companies like TriNet and Mercedes-Benz who have either established or expanded their operations there. Speaker Jon Burns praised the collaborative efforts and strategic investments that elevate every corner of the state: "From our ports at Savannah and Brunswick, extensive rail network, and vast energy infrastructure to our world-class roads, bridges, and highways—doing business here in Georgia is easy, affordable, and accessible. The House looks forward to continuing to work alongside Governor Kemp and the Senate to keep Georgia the best place for business for generations to come," as obtained by the Governor's Office.
On an international scale, Georgia welcomed more than 6,500 jobs from global companies establishing or expanding their U.S. presence. Top investors hailed from the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Canada, with notable contributions including Irving Tissue’s expansion in Macon and KISS USA’s growth in Bryan County. GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson highlighted the state’s sustained growth, noting that its stable and reliable business climate provides companies with the confidence to plan for the long term.
Looking ahead, Georgia is channeling over $18 million into the Rural Site Development Initiative to prep new industrial sites, boosting the "Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development" (GRAD) Program, which now boasts more than 70 certified sites. These investments are a strategic move to set the stage for future opportunities. Deputy Commissioner of Global Commerce Misti Martin said the initiative reflects an investment in site development today to prepare Georgia for the opportunities of tomorrow.
