2025

Fiscal Year
report
Rooted & Growing

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.

This report celebrates the industries that invest in our community, create opportunities for our people, and honor Macon’s rich heritage. With deep roots in place, we’re ready to grow even further.

Robert E. Fountain, Jr., Chair

Stephen Adams, Executive Director

The Year at a Glance

Metrics shown are based on active and prospective FY25 projects at the time of reporting.

Rooted and Growing:
Our Industry Partners

Click on a partner to learn more

Fueling Growth:
PILOT Program Impact

The Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program drives job creation and private investment while generating revenue for local schools and government. Since its inception, it has returned over $10M to the community.

Reinvested
$ 0 M+
Increase in program
participation this year
0 %

Highlight: Mayor and Superintendent receiving PILOT checks at $1B milestone celebration.

Recognition for Results:
2025 Awards

Silver Shovel Award

Georgia Projects of the Year (Irving & First Quality expansions).

Top 10 Metro City

Site Selection Magazine named Macon Bibb one of its Top 10 Metro Cities for new and expanding corporate facilities.

100 Most Influential Georgians

Chairman Robby Fountain named one of Georgia Trend’s 100 Most Influential Georgians.

AEDO Reaccreditation – IEDC

Only 90 organizations worldwide have achieved this distinction.

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.

Ocmulgee

at the Root of What’s Next

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.

Rooted in Partnership, Growing Together

“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.”
Stephen Adams
Executive Director, MBCIA

Partners

Government & Planning
  • Georgia Department of Economic Development
  • Macon-Bibb County
  • NewTown Macon
  • Urban Development Authority
  • Visit Macon
Infrastructure & Utilities
  • Atlanta Gas Light
  • Georgia EMC
  • Georgia Power
  • Macon Water Authority
  • MidState Energy
Education & Workforce
  • Bibb County School District & Career, Technical,
    and Agricultural Education (CTAE) program
  • Central Georgia Technical College
  • Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce & Choose
    Macon
  • Mercer University
  • Middle Georgia State University
  • Wesleyan College

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.

5,600+ social media followers

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

Looking Ahead

Since 2017, the MBCIA has supported more than $3B in private investment and helped create thousands of jobs. Looking to 2026, global partners continue to choose Macon-Bibb because we deliver on our commitments. Our job is to stay focused, responsive, and ready for what comes next, with confidence in the momentum made in Macon.

Embraer

Irving Tissue

YKK

BrightFarms