Governor Brian P. Kemp announced Georgia was awarded a Gold Shovel by Area Development Magazine for generating the most jobs and investment in the United States for the eight to twelve million population category.

“We are honored to receive the Gold Shovel in recognition of Georgia’s top-notch business environment, which creates immeasurable growth, investment, and opportunity in every corner of our state,” said Governor Kemp. “Our unmatched workforce, world-renowned logistics, and pro-business climate make the Peach State an ideal location for business investment. I want to thank our state's economic development team and local officials for their efforts to secure this honor for Georgians.”

Area Development’s annual Gold and Silver Shovel Awards give recognition to state and local economic development agencies which leverage innovative policies, workforce development, and logistics hubs to drive investment and job creation. All states were invited to submit information to Area Development on major groundbreakings, investments, and business expansions occurring in 2018.

“This Gold Shovel is a testament to our state’s commitment to cultivating and building on the business environment that has made us the No. 1 state for business,” said Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Congratulations to Governor Kemp, our state economic development team, and all of our economic development partners across the state on this well-deserved recognition.”