ATL Standard

Governor Brian P. Kemp delivered the keynote address at the second annual Governor's Workforce Summit, where he announced that Georgia has been named the No. 1 state for business for the 11th consecutive year by Area Development magazine. He also provided updates on Georgia MATCH and other state efforts to strengthen workforce development while aiming to make Georgia the Top State for Talent.

“We are honored to accept the title of ‘Top State for Business’ for an unprecedented 11th year,” said Governor Kemp. “This latest recognition underscores that our pro-business approach to economic development is creating opportunities for Georgians in every corner of the state. I want to thank all those who had a hand in securing this coveted ranking, including our state economic development team and their community partners across the state.”

Area Development’s annual poll of approximately 50 leading site consulting firms from across the U.S. considers 14 different factors in determining this ranking. In addition to being named overall Top State, Georgia also earned a No. 1 ranking for its nationally recognized workforce development program, Georgia Quick Start, for the 15th consecutive year.

To ensure continued success, Governor Kemp hosted this year's summit at the Georgia World Congress Center, bringing together leaders from business, education, and public policy sectors focused on aligning these key areas to prepare Georgians for statewide job opportunities.

The highlight of last year's summit was the announcement of Georgia MATCH, touted as the largest direct college admission program in the nation. Following its rollout, both USG and TCSG institutions have seen preliminary increases in enrollment this fall—9.3% for TCSG and 6.2% for USG—despite challenges posed by issues with FAFSA.

“For well over a decade, Georgia has annually maintained top 10 rankings in each survey subcategory,” said Dennis Shea, Publisher of Area Development. “Site selectors recognize that Georgia provides the whole package for companies choosing to grow or expand in the state.”

“Georgia does economic development differently than anywhere else,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “By prioritizing partnerships and investments in infrastructure, education, and workforce development, our approach drives success for businesses and Georgians alike.”

This recognition follows Governor Kemp’s announcement that fiscal year 2024 saw significant economic development momentum with GDEcD’s Global Commerce team supporting facility expansions and new locations totaling more than $20.3 billion in investment resulting in plans for 26,900 new jobs statewide.

Area Development is considered a leading executive magazine covering corporate site selection and relocation since its founding in 1965.

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) serves as the state's sales and marketing arm responsible for attracting new business investment among other roles aimed at promoting economic growth within Georgia.