Georgia has reported a record year for economic development, with new investments and job creation surpassing previous figures. Governor Brian P. Kemp announced that between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025, the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s (GDEcD) Global Commerce team supported 423 facility expansions and new locations. These projects represent more than $26.3 billion in investment and are expected to generate approximately 23,200 new private-sector jobs in 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.”
According to state officials, expansions at existing companies accounted for nearly three-quarters of all projects this fiscal year. These efforts build on an estimated base of about 50,000 jobs already held by Georgians.
“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.”
The majority—77%—of expansions or new facilities occurred outside Metro Atlanta’s ten-county region during Fiscal Year 2025; however, Metro Atlanta continues as one of the Southeast’s main business centers. Companies such as TriNet, A.I.G., CRH, Duracell, and Mercedes-Benz either established or expanded operations within this area.
“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 investment also played a significant role this year: more than 6,500 new jobs came from foreign-owned firms establishing or expanding U.S.-based operations within Georgia. The Republic of Korea (South Korea), Japan, and Canada were among leading sources of international capital commitments totaling over $3 billion—with most funds directed toward expansion rather than entirely new facilities.
Notable examples include Irving Tissue’s expansion project in Macon; GreenBox Systems opening a location in Butts County; KISS USA expanding its presence 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.”
For more than ten years running,Area Development magazine has named Georgia as America’s top state for doing business.
Looking ahead at continued growth prospects across rural areas specifically,the state plans over $18 million worth of grants through its Rural Site Development Initiative aimed at preparing industrial sites outside urban centers by supporting improvements under programs like “Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development” (GRAD), which now lists more than seventy certified sites ready for corporate use.
“By investing in site development today we’re preparing Georgia for opportunities of tomorrow,” said Deputy Commissioner Misti Martin. “Programs like Rural Site Development Initiative—and site-readiness certification—help communities attract new jobs/investment by offering speed-to-market solutions meeting needs faced by growing companies… This work keeps Georgia competitive forward-looking ready what next.”
Further details on these projects can be found on georgia.org/newsroom.
