Georgia has started its second decade as the top-ranked state in which to do business, according to Area Development Magazine.
The magazine released its most recent report last week and Georgia is the top dog for the 11th consecutive year. The magazine said it is a testament to the Peach State’s pro-business conditions.
“The Peach State’s consistent performance across various categories makes it a perennial favorite for businesses looking to expand or relocate. Georgia’s ability to sustain its leadership position speaks volumes about its strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and policy frameworks that foster business growth and economic resilience,” wrote the publication.
“We are honored to accept the title of ‘Top State for Business’ for an unprecedented 11th year,” said Governor Brian Kemp, said in a news release for the annual Governor’s Workforce Summit. “This latest recognition underscores that our pro-business approach to economic development is creating opportunities for Georgians in every corner of the state. To ensure we maintain this historic success, we’re continuing our efforts through Georgia MATCH, which has already seen a notable increase in enrollment at both our USG and TCSG institutions, and we saw at today’s summit that leaders from across the public and private sector remain engaged in solving our need for more workers.”
Georgia MATCH is the largest direct college admission program in the nation. Each year, high school students receive a letter listing the TCSG and University System of Georgia (USG) institutions the student into which the student is eligible to enroll.
Workforce development was among the strengths highlighted by the magazine, including Georgia Quick Start, a program offered through the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG). It provides customized training for new and expanding companies.
For the second year, Georgia’s neighbor to the east is sitting in the number two spot on the list.
Among the strengths cited by the magazine are South Carolina’s access to qualified labor and the availability of sites for new businesses to locate or expand.
“South Carolina makes it easier with its well-established LocateSC program,” the magazine detailed. “This initiative ensures that businesses can find ready-to-develop sites quickly, with all the necessary due diligence completed in advance. South Carolina’s strategic investments in site readiness have paid off, making it a top destination for businesses looking to expand.”
Another highlight of the workforce summit was announcing the 2024 winners of the Governor’s Workforce Summit Awards, and it includes one of Augusta’s newest businesses.
Aurubis Richmond was named Business Partner of the Year. The $800 million plant in Augusta Corporate Park on Mike Padgett Highway will celebrate a ribbon cutting on Friday, Sept. 20.
The awards recognize achievements in workforce development, partnerships, and student success across Georgia.
“These award winners are shining examples of the innovation, hard work, and dedication that drive Georgia’s workforce forward,” said TCSG Commissioner, Greg Dozier in a news release. “Their achievements demonstrate the power of strong partnerships between education and industry in creating opportunities for students and building a highly skilled workforce. We are proud to celebrate their success and their contributions to Georgia’s economic future.”
Other winners are:
College and Career Academy of the Year – Floyd County College and Career Academy
Work-Based Learning Student of the Year – Jesse Price, Houston College and Career Academy; Northside High School (Award sponsored by the Georgia Foundation for Public Education)
Youth Apprenticeship Completer of the Year – Cullee Peavey Richardson, Ware County High School (Award sponsored by the Georgia Foundation for Public Education)
Dual Achievement Program Student of the Year – Jayden Davis, Athens Technical College Academy (Award sponsored by the TCSG Foundation)
Dual Enrollment Student of the Year – Moatapari Agbere, Chattahoochee Valley College and Career Academy (Award sponsored by the TCSG Foundation)
College and Career Academy Student of the Year – Joshua Cain, Rockdale Career Academy (Award sponsored by Georgia Power and The Munn Firm)
“These award winners are shining examples of the innovation, hard work, and dedication that drive Georgia’s workforce forward,” said TCSG Commissioner, Greg Dozier. “Their achievements demonstrate the power of strong partnerships between education and industry in creating opportunities for students and building a highly skilled workforce. We are proud to celebrate their success and their contributions to Georgia’s economic future.”
Area Development Magazine’s complete breakdown of the top states for doing business and the criteria is at www.areadevelopment.com/Top-States-for-Doing-Business/q3-2024/top-states-for-doing-business-in-2024-a-continued-legacy-of-excellence.shtml
