GDEcD Ranked No. 1 'Best in Class'

By Chris Carr, GDEcD Commissioner
I have some great news that I wanted to share! Yesterday, GDEcD announced that we were ranked No. 1 for 'Best in Class' by DCI.

The well-deserving team of professionals at the Department of Economic Development is being recognized for its outstanding performance and excellence in creating jobs and investment opportunities here in Georgia," said Gov. Nathan Deal. "Congratulations to all of our team members and partners across the state on winning this prestigious award, and thank you for all you do to make Georgia a better place to live and work.'

According to a new survey of U.S. corporate executives released earlier this week at the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) Annual Conference,  the Georgia Department of Economic Development ranked No. 1 "best in class" state-level economic development agency.

Georgia's economic development success is based on strong, established partnerships.  This award is testament to the commitment and support from our industry partners, companies and state and regional economic developers who work tirelessly to promote Georgia as an exceptional place to do business.

I couldn't be more proud of our team. I am thrilled that our team's hard work and dedication was recognized with this very prestigious award.

As if this news wasn't enough, Georgia was also identified by 17.6 percent of the 356 respondents to the 2014 survey as having the most favorable business climate. Respondents most frequently cited "pro-business environment" (34 percent), incentives (31 percent) and workforce quality/availability (31 percent), as factors in their positive perception of Georgia.

Our team is honored to accept this award on behalf of all of our economic development partners across the state.  Thank you.