News Summary
Governor Brian Kemp has unveiled a landmark $26.3 billion in investments aimed at fostering economic growth in Georgia. This initiative is projected to create 23,000 new private-sector jobs over five years, with 74% of investments going toward expansions of existing companies, primarily in rural areas. Notably, international contributions, particularly from countries like South Korea, Japan, and Canada, account for significant job creation and investment. Georgia’s strategy focuses on enhancing its business environment, improving rural infrastructure, and promoting international connections to maintain its status as the top state for business.
Atlanta, Georgia – Governor Brian Kemp has announced a record-breaking $26.3 billion in investments for the state during fiscal year 2025, which has facilitated the creation of 23,000 new private-sector jobs over the next five years. This investment report covers the period from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2025, and includes a total of 423 facilities that either invested or expanded operations in Georgia.
According to economic data released, approximately 74% of these projects were expansions at existing companies within the state. Notably, over 77% of the new business investments took place in counties outside of the metro Atlanta area, aligning with the state’s efforts to foster economic development in rural regions.
International companies have played a significant role in this development, contributing to 6,500 new jobs. The primary sources of this international investment have been companies from the Republic of Korea, Japan, and Canada, with international investments totaling over $3 billion of the record amount. This influx of foreign investment highlights Georgia’s growing appeal as an international business hub.
The state has allocated $10.7 million from the $40.4 million budget of the Georgia Department of Economic Development to bolster its global commerce efforts. Recent economic missions to South America, led by Governor Kemp, Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper, and First Lady Marty Kemp, are aimed at promoting business opportunities and strengthening Georgia’s international connections.
Further financial transparency was showcased with the Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson reporting travel expenses totaling $116,811.93 for fiscal year 2024. Governor Kemp himself received travel reimbursements of $29,884.69 through the same department, while Secretary Harper’s travel expenses amounted to $14,093.64 charged to his department.
Governor Kemp has reiterated Georgia’s consistent ranking as the No. 1 state for business for over a decade, emphasizing strategic efforts to attract new companies alongside supporting existing employers’ growth. The majority of investment funds—nearly three-quarters—were directed towards expansion projects of already established companies in Georgia.
The state’s economic strategy has focused on enhancing investments in rural communities. Significant investments in infrastructure, encompassing transportation networks, ports, and energy sectors, have contributed to developing a favorable environment for business operations. About 80% of new expansions were notably situated outside the Atlanta metropolitan area, indicating a shift towards rural economic development.
In addition to the significant investment figures, the state is also implementing initiatives like the Rural Site Development Initiative, which allocates over $18 million to prepare new industrial sites in rural areas. This initiative aims to further stimulate economic growth and job creation in less populated regions of Georgia.
As Georgia continues to build on this momentum, the reported investments and job creation promise substantial improvements for the state’s economy, placing it in a strong position for future growth and development.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- Wikipedia: Georgia (U.S. State)
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- Google News: Georgia Business Investment
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- Google Search: Georgia Investment Initiatives
- Chosun: Georgia Economy Update
- Google Scholar: Georgia Economic Development
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
