Georgia Wins Vaunted Silver Shovel Award for Excellence in Economic Development

ATLANTA — Governor Sonny Perdue welcomed the news that Georgia won a Silver Shovel award from Area Development magazine, a key recognition of the state’s business-friendly policies by a respected economic development publication. Georgia was one of 11 states honored by the magazine.

“As a small business owner, I have continually strived to make Georgia an even more business-friendly state,” Governor Perdue said. “Georgia offers the kind of business environment that makes our state a great place for global companies, small businesses and entrepreneurs, and we are honored to receive an accolade such as the Silver Shovel award.”

Area Development singled out three Georgia projects, including Korean manufacturer Kumho Tire, which is set to create 450 jobs and invest $225 million in Macon, Kia supplier Sewon America’s new facility in LaGrange, which will employ 700 and represents a $170 million investment, and Portugese manufacturer EFACEC Group’s $100 million plan in Rincon, which will create 600 jobs.

“All economic development agencies make significant contributions to their states, but every year there are a few standouts,” said Geraldine Gambale, Editor of Area Development.   “These 11 states deserve special recognition.”

The magazine cited several reasons for the award, which recognizes states for attracting high-value investment projects that create a significant number of new jobs in their communities. The state received a Gold Shovel award from Area Development in 2007.

“Georgia — our 2007 Gold Shovel recipient — is well known as the headquarters for global companies such as Coca-Cola, The Home Depot, and UPS,” according to the Area Development report. “The state keeps its tax rate competitive and provides innovative incentive packages and funding for training and business support, attracting a diversity of both U.S. and foreign investment.”

Area Development magazine gave Georgia the Silver Shovel award in the category for states with a population between 5 and 10 million. Other silver shovel winners in the category include North Carolina, Virginia and Indiana.

To read the Area Development report, visit http://www.areadevelopment.com/awards.

###