Fueled by strong partnerships and record-setting growth in Fiscal Year 2025, our region continues to gain momentum. The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) is building on this success through a strategic focus on recruitment, retention, and land management. These pillars drive sustainable growth, strengthen partnerships, and help ensure Macon-Bibb remains a destination of choice for investment and innovation.
Macon is a place brimming with opportunity for industries, businesses, and people alike. It’s a community where each of us can play a pivotal role in shaping a stronger economic future.
In 2025, the MBCIA doubled down on supporting industries already rooted in Macon-Bibb County, helping them grow, expand, and thrive. While continuing to pursue new economic opportunities with both global reach and local impact, we prioritized the strength and sustainability of the businesses that already call Macon home. These efforts support our mission to promote the economic well-being of Macon-Bibb County by creating jobs, retaining jobs, and increasing the tax base.
Fiscal Year 2025 closed on June 30th with 30 active projects in the pipeline, representing a combined $4.6 billion in potential investment.
Highlights from a Landmark Year
• BrightFarms Greenhouse: Celebrated the opening of its first Georgia facility in Macon-Bibb, a 1.5 millionsquare-foot, high-tech greenhouse that produces up to 22,000 pounds of leafy greens daily. The company has already created more than 125 jobs and has plans to expand to 32 acres under glass.
ROOTED IN PROGRESS A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
Fueled by strong partnerships and record-setting growth in Fiscal Year 2025, our region continues to gain momentum.
• Irving Consumer Products: Invested more than $1.5 billion in Macon-Bibb since 2017, including a recent $600 million expansion that added 100 new jobs. In summer 2025, company leadership hosted the MBCIA and Georgia officials at its Canadian headquarters during the Southeastern United States–Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) Conference, further demonstrating its long-term commitment to the region.
• YKK: Celebrated 50 years of manufacturing in Macon, highlighting its long-term partnership and community investment.
• MBCIA: Celebrated Macon-Bibb County surpassing $1.2 billion in total investment during calendar year 2024, a milestone that reflects strong interest and confidence in the region’s economic future.
• Macon-Bibb County: Earned recognition as a Top 10 Metro City by Site Selection Magazine, reinforcing its national reputation for business-ready growth.
Our board is grateful for the strength and commitment of our local industries, whose continued investment and expansion bring new jobs and opportunities to the people of Macon-Bibb County. With deep roots in place, we’re ready to grow even further.
Robert E. Fountain, Jr., Chair
Rooted in Purpose. Powered by People.
Our mission is to promote the economic well-being of Macon-Bibb County by creating jobs, retaining jobs, and increasing the tax base.
This year, we reflected on the strength of our existing industries, celebrated strategic improvements, and honored the people and partnerships that help our community flourish.
Leaders Rooted in Macon
Established in 1962 by the Georgia General Assembly, the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) is governed by a six-member board. The board includes the Mayor of Macon-Bibb County, four community appointees, and one representative from the Macon Water Authority.
Robert E. Fountain, Jr., Chair Owner & Operator, Fountain Enterprises
Ron Shipman, Member President & Executive Director, Macon Water Authority
Dwight Jones, Vice Chair Owner, Ocmulgee Fields, Inc.
Lester M. Miller, Member Mayor, Macon-Bibb County
Ember Bishop Bentley, Member Vice President of External Affairs & Executive Director of the Georgia Aerospace and Defense Alliance, Mercer University
Cassandra Miller-Washington, Ph.D., Member Executive Director of Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education / CEO, Bibb County School District
The MBCIA hosted two Industry Partners Luncheons to bring together employers, educators, and elected officials for candid conversations about workforce development, infrastructure, and community priorities.
These gatherings created space for collaboration and shared planning, helping to ensure Macon-Bibb industries continue to grow and succeed.
“Our local industries are the backbone of Macon-Bibb’s economy. Events like these help us stay aligned and build a stronger future.”
–Lester Miller Mayor, Macon-Bibb County
Community Partners Bus Tour
In October, the MBCIA hosted a Community Partners Bus Tour that offered a closer look at active industrial parks and businesses across Macon-Bibb.
The tour gave local leaders a deeper understanding of how economic development efforts are shaping the region and creating long-term value for the entire community.
“These tours are important because they showcase what happens here in Macon. By taking our community partners on this tour, we can educate them on what the Industrial Authority does and how it impacts the entire county.”
–Stephen Adams Executive Director, MBCIA
$1B Milestone Celebration
The MBCIA closed 2024 with a celebration recognizing more than $1 billion in reinvestment by industries that continue to grow in Macon-Bibb.
The event highlighted key milestones from several longtime partners:
IRVING CONSUMER PRODUCTS
Celebrated five years in Macon and announced an expansion
FIRST QUALITY BABY PRODUCTS
Shared plans for local growth
YKK
Marked 50 years in Macon
EMBRAER
Recommitted to Macon-Bibb with a 15-year lease at Middle Georgia Regional Airport
Rooted & Growing Our Industry Partners Embraer
Embraer Aircraft Maintenance Services recommitted its lease with the MBCIA at the Middle Georgia Regional Airport, reaffirming the company’s longterm investment in Macon-Bibb County.
Embraer, the world’s thirdlargest aircraft manufacturer, has been a valued part of the Macon-Bibb community since 2018. The company provides services across aviation sectors and has created more than 100 local jobs while investing in infrastructure and talent.
“We are excited to extend the lease on our Macon hangar. As the partnership between Macon and Embraer continues to grow, this extension further solidifies and strengthens our commitment to the community along with our customers.”
- Jason Grafton, Managing Director, Embraer
“As Chairman of the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority, we are always thrilled when existing industries choose Macon to continue to do business. Industry retention is the cornerstone of our success. Over the past 5 years, Embraer has been a key player in job creation and the vitality of the Middle Georgia Regional Airport. This renewal is a strong endorsement of our collaborative efforts and the business-friendly environment we have developed.”
- Robby Fountain, Chairman, MBCIA
Embraer has operated out of a 155,000-square-foot facility at the Middle Georgia Regional Airport since 2018, investing more than $1.6 million into site improvements and operations. As a key part of the aviation industry rooted in Middle Georgia, Embraer continues to grow its presence through ongoing investment in the local workforce and infrastructure.
Irving Consumer Products
Irving Consumer Products continues to expand its presence in Macon-Bibb County, announcing a $600 million investment that will create at least 100 new jobs.
“Since choosing Macon in 2017, Irving has invested around $1.5 billion into the community and created 400 well-paying jobs, with another 100 jobs on the way. Irving is a valued employer for the entire region of Georgia, and we are thankful they continue to reinvest in our state and MaconBibb County.”
- Governor Brian P. Kemp
Irving’s $470 million facility in Sofkee Industrial Park opened in 2019 and has since grown through an additional $400 million in expansion. The plant now employs more than 400 people and produces ultra-premium household paper products.
This kind of long-term, community-anchored growth is exactly what defines the industries rooted in Macon.
YKK
In 2024, the MBCIA continued celebrating the 50-year legacy of YKK in Macon-Bibb County. While the official anniversary was first acknowledged in last year’s report, the formal celebration took place during this fiscal year, giving the community a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the company’s contributions to local growth and industry leadership.
Since opening its Macon facility in 1974, YKK has built one of the strongest and most enduring partnerships in the region. The MBCIA has supported the company through decades of local expansion and innovation, and we are proud to spotlight YKK’s continued presence and impact.
“My father became good friends with Mr. Tadao Yoshida, former YKK chairman, and they maintained a personal relationship throughout their lives. It’s a great honor and privilege for me to follow in my father’s footsteps of being involved in this entity. It is also both emotional and an honor to be here 50 years later to help YKK celebrate their anniversary here in Macon-Bibb County. They’re an excellent partner, and we are extremely fortunate to have had their leadership in our community for all these years.”
- Dwight Jones, Vice Chairman, MBCIA
As Irving continues to invest in Macon-Bibb, the MBCIA remains equally committed to supporting the company’s long-term success. In June, Executive Director Stephen Adams joined Governor Kemp, Georgia Department of Economic Development Commissioner Pat Wilson, and state leaders in visiting Irving’s Canadian headquarters during the Southeastern United States–Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) Conference in New Brunswick. The visit reaffirmed the strength of this partnership and Macon-Bibb’s support for Irving’s ongoing growth.
YKK’s commitment to Macon-Bibb is a reminder of what it means to put down real roots. Their long-term investment continues to shape the community and inspire the future of manufacturing in Middle Georgia.
New Chapters Welcoming Industry Investment
BrightFarms: New Growth Takes Root
BrightFarms officially opened its first Georgia greenhouse in June.
The 1.5 million-square-foot, high-tech facility in Macon-Bibb produces up to 22,000 pounds of leafy greens every day. The project has already created more than 125 jobs and is expected to expand to 32 acres under glass, supporting up to 300 jobs.
With a $200 million investment and deep roots in sustainability, BrightFarms is helping to usher in a new era of agriculture in Middle Georgia. The MBCIA has supported the project from site selection through groundbreaking. BrightFarms now participates in the PILOT program, which helped make the project possible.
Fueling Growth PILOT Program Impact
The Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program is a local tax incentive that encourages businesses to create jobs and invest in Macon-Bibb. In return for their long-term commitment to the community, participating companies receive structured property tax discounts tied to their investment levels and job creation.
This approach not only drives private development, it also generates new revenue for local government and schools. Since the program began, PILOT contributions have directed more than $18 million back into the community, helping reduce the tax burden on residents and support public services.
$18 Million+ reinvested in Macon-Bibb through PILOT contributions since 2017
7% Increase
in program participation this year
At the MBCIA’s $1B Milestone Celebration, Mayor Lester Miller and Superintendent Dan Sims accepted PILOT checks on behalf of the county and public school system.
The moment recognized the collective impact of local industries choosing to reinvest in Macon-Bibb through job creation, development, and long-term community support.
Recognition for Results 2025 Awards
Silver Shovel Award – Georgia Projects of the Year
Georgia earned a Silver Shovel Award from Area Development in 2025, in part due to two major projects in Macon-Bibb. Irving Consumer Products committed more than $577 million to expand paper goods production. First Quality Enterprises invested $418 million in its hygiene and paper facility. These projects reflect the power of supporting industries that have already taken root here. They also played a central role in Georgia’s win and underscore how investment in Macon-Bibb strengthens the state’s leadership in advanced manufacturing.
Robby Fountain Named to 100 Most Influential Georgians –Georgia Trend
Chairman Robby Fountain was named one of Georgia Trend’s 100 Most Influential Georgians for the third year in a row. Under his leadership, the MBCIA has helped bring in more than $2 billion in private investment and over 4,300 new jobs.
“Robby’s vision and leadership have been one of the primary drivers of industries making decisions to locate in Macon. His support is a major reason we had a banner year in 2024, with over $1 billion in private investment.”
- Stephen Adams, Executive Director, MBCIA
ONPPI Economic Steward Award
The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority received the 2025 Economic Steward Award from the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative (ONPPI). The award honors leadership in building sustainable partnerships that protect the natural and cultural value of the Ocmulgee Corridor. This recognition highlights the MBCIA’s commitment to economic growth that respects both people and place.
Top 10 Metro City –Site Selection
Site Selection Magazine named Macon-Bibb one of its Top 10 Metro Cities for new and expanding corporate facilities. The ranking reflects the continued investment of local industries and the collaborative efforts that make Macon-Bibb a competitive place to do business.
AEDO Reaccreditation –IEDC
The MBCIA was officially reaccredited as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). Only 90 organizations worldwide have achieved this distinction. The reaccreditation confirms the MBCIA’s dedication to transparency, best practices, and long-term accountability to the community.
3,400 New Jobs Created
44 Active Projects Supported 60+ Partner Organizations Engaged $1.87 Billion in New Private Investment Metrics shown are based on active and prospective FY25 projects at the time of reporting.
1,500 Jobs Retained
23 RFIs Received
Hundreds of Acres Maintained across Industrial Parks
Ocmulgee at the Root of What’s Next Looking Ahead: Ocmulgee Corridor
and Regional Growth
In 2025, the MBCIA received the Economic Steward Award from the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative (ONPPI). The honor recognizes our role in catalyzing a bold vision: a national park in Macon that bridges heritage, community, and long-term development.
A 2017 study commissioned by the National Parks Conservation Association found that within 15 years of national park designation, the Ocmulgee site could generate more than $200 million in annual economic activity, support nearly 3,000 new jobs, and bring about $30 million in new tax revenue to Middle Georgia. These gains would flow across sectors from lodging and dining to local retail and outdoor recreation.
As Executive Director Stephen Adams said during his acceptance remarks:
“Some have asked how a national park aligns with the mission of job creation and expanding the tax base. The answer is simple: when more people choose to live and work here because of our natural and cultural assets, our workforce grows, our economy strengthens, and our community thrives.”
The MBCIA believes this park will have a multi-generational impact. One that enhances quality of life, supports workforce attraction, and complements our industrial ecosystem.
That is the future we’re helping to build: a future where conservation and commerce grow stronger together.
Rooted in Partnership Growing Together
The MBCIA works closely with a strong network of community partners whose leadership strengthens Macon-Bibb’s business environment, workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life. These partnerships are essential to maintaining the conditions that help industries grow and stay rooted here.
Government & Planning Partners
• Macon-Bibb County – Local governance and infrastructure investment
• NewTown Macon – Downtown development, small business growth, and place-making
• Urban Development Authority (UDA) –Redevelopment, incentives, and corridor support
• Visit Macon – Tourism marketing and economic impact through visibility
Education & Workforce Partners
• Bibb County School District & Career, Technical, and Agricultural Education (CTAE) Program –Career pathways and industry alignment
• Central Georgia Technical College – Technical training and credentialed workforce
• Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce & Choose Macon – Business services and regional recruitment
• Mercer University – Higher education and leadership development
• Middle Georgia State University – Higher education, innovation, and workforce pipeline
• Wesleyan College – Liberal arts education and women’s leadership pipeline
State-Level Partnership –Georgia Department of Economic Development
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) expands access to state resources and supports business recruitment across sectors. Their partnership helps ensure Macon-Bibb remains competitive for investment, talent, and opportunity.
Utility Partners
Macon-Bibb’s utility partners provide the reliable energy and infrastructure that fuel growth and strengthen our business climate.
• Atlanta Gas Light – Provides dependable natural gas infrastructure that supports industry expansion
• Mid-State Energy – Delivers safe, affordable natural gas while investing in community growth
• Georgia EMC – Powers progress with energy solutions and development initiatives
• Georgia Power – Advances local growth through site readiness, workforce initiatives, and environmental stewardship
Infrastructure Partner –Macon Water Authority
The Macon Water Authority (MWA) operates a world-class utility system that supports relocation, expansion, and site selection. With reliable infrastructure, professional expertise, and future-ready capacity, MWA helps make Macon-Bibb a smart choice for industrial growth.
MACON WATER AUTHORITY
CANDICE SCOTT OF THE GDEcD, JESSICA WALDEN OF THE GREATER MACON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, AND LAURA MATHIS OF THE MIDDLE GEORGIA REGIONAL COMMISSION
Telling the Story of Growth
The MBCIA uses a combination of digital platforms, print media, and public outreach to share the story of economic development in Macon-Bibb. From celebrating industry milestones to spotlighting new investments, our communications work is designed to keep stakeholders informed, engaged, and connected to the region’s growth.
Funding Transparency
The MBCIA is committed to using its resources responsibly to support long-term economic growth. Each dollar we manage goes toward strengthening our region through infrastructure improvements, site readiness, workforce development, marketing, and community partnerships.
By investing strategically, we ensure that Macon-Bibb remains competitive and future-ready.
How We Are Funded
How We Spend Our Funding
A Message from the Executive Director
Looking back on the past year, I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in building trust, strengthening partnerships, and driving meaningful investment into Macon-Bibb County.
Many of this year’s successes were driven by companies already rooted in this community. Their continued growth reflects the strength of our workforce, our infrastructure, and our long-standing commitment to collaboration.
The MBCIA doesn’t just recruit new industries, we help nurture the roots of growth so that existing employers can expand and reinvest with confidence.
Our work alongside the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative is a reminder that economic development and quality of life go hand in hand. As we move closer to establishing Georgia’s first national park, we’re also building a more rooted, attractive place for people to live and work.
Since 2017, the MBCIA has supported more than $3 billion in private investment and helped create thousands of jobs. In 2025, we focused on strategic recruitment, land readiness, infrastructure upgrades, and site visibility.
As we look ahead to 2026, Macon-Bibb is positioned for even more growth. Global partners like Irving in Canada and YKK USA, and YKK AP in Japan continue to choose this community because we follow through on our commitments.
Our job is to stay focused, responsive, and ready for what’s next. That’s how we approach each day.
