Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced the third round of grants from the Rural Site Development Initiative (RSDI) under the OneGeorgia Authority, with $4.3 million allocated in this round. This brings the total investment in rural site development projects since the program’s start in fiscal year 2025 to $21 million.
“In Georgia, we are committed to bringing good-paying jobs to every part of the state,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “The Rural Site Development Initiative is a great tool in helping us bring opportunity to every zip code, and I am grateful for the partnership of the General Assembly and the leadership of the state agencies involved, without whom this generational impact for rural communities would not be possible.”
The RSDI grants support either site improvement or costs related to seeking Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) certification on projects considered important for economic development in specific areas. State funding is matched by local communities at different levels based on program criteria.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones expressed appreciation for continued support: “I want to thank Governor Kemp and all the state agencies who have ensured that the Rural Site Development Initiative continues to grow and support our rural communities. Workforce development and economic growth are essential for all parts of Georgia, especially our rural communities, where new opportunities are emerging daily. I look forward to working with the administration to continue to build on this initiative and its success.”
Speaker Jon Burns highlighted job access across regions: “Georgians across the state deserve access to good-paying jobs and opportunities, regardless of their ZIP code. OneGeorgia’s Rural Site Development grants represent our state’s commitment to uplifting rural communities and investing where it makes the largest impact, strengthening our economic competitiveness and creating pathways to prosperity in every corner of Georgia.”
Department of Community Affairs Commissioner Christopher Nunn noted ongoing collaboration: “Helping to keep Georgia’s communities ready for investment is essential for their long-term success. DCA is working alongside these communities to ensure their vision of the future.”
Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson commented on competitiveness: “Development ready sites are a must-have to be competitive in today’s landscape, especially in key industries such as logistics and manufacturing. Partnering with communities through the GRAD certification and RSDI programs allows us to market every corner of the state as we compete for opportunities for Georgians.”
Site Improvement Grants were awarded as follows:
– Camden County Joint Development Authority received $2 million for improvements at Coastal Georgia Commerce Park; total project cost is $7.3 million.
– Toombs County Development Authority was granted $2 million for upgrades at One Toombs Industrial Park; total project cost is $2.7 million.
GRAD-Certification Scholarships included:
– Brantley County Development Authority received $45,000 toward certifying Satilla Industrial Park.
– Candler County Industrial Authority was awarded $103,500 for renewal and expansion at Metter-Candler I-16 Industrial Park.
– Rome-Floyd Development Authority got $20,625 toward certifying Enterprise Corner Industrial Park.
– Waycross-Ware County Development Authority received $161,500 toward certifying Waycross and Ware County Airport Industrial Park.
Grant funds can be used for activities such as site studies, land grading, or other infrastructure work that supports site development. Recipients must meet eligibility requirements set by OneGeorgia Authority; use of funds must comply with applicable laws and policies.
The Office of the Governor directs executive functions within Georgia’s government sector from Atlanta at facilities including the Governor’s Mansion, which also serves official events and houses Federal period art collections.
For more information about RSDI or grant awards scoring by OneGeorgia Authority, visit the Department of Community Affairs website.
The Georgia Department of Economic Development leads efforts attracting business investment and promoting tourism while supporting arts and entertainment sectors statewide. The Department of Community Affairs partners with localities on community development initiatives including affordable housing programs.
