Georgia Business Focus: State sees economic growth, healthcare expansion
Georgia is experiencing significant economic development and healthcare improvements, with new investments bringing jobs and medical resources to communities across the state.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Georgia is experiencing significant economic development and healthcare improvements, with new investments bringing jobs and medical resources to communities across the state.
200 jobs coming to Emanuel County
Emanuel County is set to receive a major economic boost as Dongwon Autopart Technology plans to invest $30 million in a new production facility near Swainsboro, bringing 200 jobs to the area.
Governor Brian Kemp celebrated the announcement, saying Georgia’s thriving automotive industry is creating new opportunities for residents statewide, regardless of their zip code.
Construction on the new manufacturing facility will take place at the Highway 297 Industrial Park near Swainsboro. The company will hire for management, system leads, and production personnel positions, with hiring expected to begin later this year.
Governor announces $4.3M in rural development grants
This week, Governor Kemp announced the third round of grants from the Rural Site Development Initiative within the One Georgia Authority. This round includes $4.3 million in funding.
Since the program launched in 2025, the total investment in rural site development projects has reached $21 million.
“In Georgia, we are committed to bringing good-paying jobs to every part of the state,” Governor Kemp said. “The Rural Site Development Initiative is a great tool in helping us bring opportunity to every zip code.”
Piedmont expands medical residency program
Piedmont Healthcare is launching an expanded graduate medical education program to improve healthcare quality and access across Georgia. Starting next year, Piedmont will integrate medical and surgical residents into clinical hubs throughout the state.
Piedmont currently operates residency programs in Macon, Columbus, Cartersville, and Athens, with 80 new residents this year. The expanded program plans to host 386 additional residents and fellows annually.
Because physicians typically stay where they complete their residencies, this represents a strategic investment in Georgia’s healthcare future.
Atrium Health Navicent offers healthcare career program
Atrium Health Navicent is now accepting applications for its Rise to Success program, offering graduating high school seniors employment and tuition assistance for healthcare careers in fields like pharmacy technology, emergency medical services, and radiology. Applications are due March 1st.
Participants work in entry-level hospital positions while earning their associate degree, then commit to one additional year at Atrium Health Navicent.
Georgia credit scores lag behind national average
Georgia residents face challenges when it comes to credit scores. A new report from WalletHub shows the Peach State ranks in the bottom five nationwide for average credit scores, falling well below the national average of 702. Minnesota leads the nation with an average score of 723.
Experts recommend aiming for at least 750 to reach the “excellent” credit category. To improve scores, Georgians should focus on on-time payments, keeping credit utilization low, and avoiding common mistakes like closing old accounts.
