The October Georgia Economic Developers Association Luncheon brought together economic developers from across the state for a panel discussion with site selection consultants: from Newmark, Colliers, and Parker Poe Consulting. The conversation was moderated by Ashley Varnum, Business Recruitment Director at Georgia Power, and focused on what’s changing in site selection, what makes Georgia stand out, and how we can prepare for projects.
What’s Trending
The panel kicked off with a conversation around how companies are shifting their priorities when choosing new locations. There’s a big push for speed-to-market, available workforce, and ready-to-go infrastructure. Top Sectors like advanced manufacturing, logistics, life sciences, and data centers are especially active in Georgia right now. More and more, companies want pad-ready sites and spec buildings to keep their timelines on track.
Why Georgia Stands Out
When asked what makes Georgia competitive, panelists highlighted the state’s business-friendly environment, strong logistics network and connectivity, and talent pipeline. Atlanta’s role as a regional hub and Georgia’s consistent ranking as the No.1 state for business were also cited as reasons for Georgia’s success.
What We Can Do
One of the most eye-opening parts of the panel was the discussion around why some communities and states don’t make companies' shortlists.
Common issues? Incomplete RFIs, lack of site control, and missing infrastructure data.
The consultants stressed that we need to be proactive: submit clear, detailed, and accurate RFIs, be transparent with data, engage local leadership, and get creative with incentives to stand out during site visits.
Tips for Economic Developers
During the course of the event, the panelists recommended a few things that economic developers can do to ensure they give themselves the best shot to land projects.
- Invest in product development: spec buildings, pad-ready sites, and community-owned assets to meet speed to market needs.
- Use technology and data to match how consultants and companies evaluate locations.
- Continue to build and leverage relationships with your local, regional and statewide partners.
Our team at Georgia Power can serve as a resource for communities across the state in helping to market their sites. To learn more, click here.
Interested in Locating to Georgia? Business Recruitment Associates like AnnMarie are here to help!
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