Governor Brian P. Kemp and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) have reported a record year for business recruitment and expansion in Fiscal Year 2025. According to the announcement, from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, GDEcD’s Global Commerce team supported 423 facility expansions and new locations across the state. These projects are expected to bring more than $26.3 billion in investment and create approximately 23,200 new private-sector jobs over the coming years.
“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,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Today’s numbers are just the latest confirmation that our partnership approach and the hard work of our incredible economic development team are delivering results for Georgians that will pay off for generations. I also want to thank our partners in the legislature, whose support makes it easy to promote Georgia to both current and prospective employers.”
Expansions at existing companies made up about 74% of these projects, continuing growth among businesses already established in Georgia.
“Today’s record breaking announcement would not be possible without support from this Administration, legislature, and businesses investing in Georgia’s workforce and future,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “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.”
Most expansions—77%—and new locations occurred outside Metro Atlanta’s core counties, reflecting statewide economic activity beyond urban centers. Still, Metro Atlanta continues as a major hub where firms such as TriNet, A.I.G., CRH, Duracell, and Mercedes-Benz expanded or established corporate operations.
“Here in Georgia, our leaders have consistently prioritized fostering collaborative partnerships and making strategic investments that strengthen our opportunities for growth in every corner of the state,” said Speaker Jon Burns. “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.”
International companies contributed significantly by creating more than 6,500 new jobs as they expanded or relocated within Georgia. The leading sources of foreign investment were South Korea (Republic of Korea), Japan, and Canada.
Foreign investors committed over $3 billion during FY25; most—64%—was allocated toward expanding their current operations within Georgia rather than establishing entirely new sites. Notable international projects included Irving Tissue’s expansion in Macon; GreenBox Systems’ opening in Butts County; and KISS USA’s expansion in Bryan County.
“Over the last decade, Georgia has achieved sustained, steady growth in job creation,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Our stable, reliable business climate gives companies the confidence to plan for the long term. Whether a company is new to Georgia or already here, domestic or international, the question is no longer if they’ll expand in Georgia – but when.”
Georgia has maintained its ranking as America’s top state for business by Area Development magazine for more than ten years.
To support continued growth outside major metropolitan areas, over $18 million is being invested through initiatives like the Rural Site Development Initiative. This program helps rural communities improve industrial sites eligible for inclusion under “Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development” (GRAD), which now certifies more than 70 sites statewide.
“By investing in site development today, we’re preparing Georgia for the opportunities of tomorrow,” said Deputy Commissioner of Global Commerce Misti Martin. “Programs like the Rural Site Development Initiative and our site-readiness certification help communities attract new jobs and investment by offering speed-to-market solutions that meet the needs of growing companies. This work keeps Georgia competitive, forward-looking, and ready for what’s next.”
Further details on state-announced economic development projects can be found at https://www.georgia.org/newsroom.
