MBCIA Recognized for Championing Smart, Sustainable Growth in the Ocmulgee Corridor
2025 Economic Steward Award honors partnership-first approach to progress
The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) has been awarded the 2025 Economic Steward Award by the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative (ONPPI) for its leadership in forging smart, sustainable partnerships that protect the natural beauty and cultural value of the Ocmulgee Corridor.
Presented by ONPPI, the award honors organizations that exemplify how economic progress can go hand-in-hand with cultural preservation and environmental stewardship. This year, the MBCIA was recognized for its commitment to growth that benefits both people and place – reinforcing that industrial development and conservation are not at odds but can thrive together.
“Some have asked how a national park aligns with the mission of job creation and expanding the tax base,” said Stephen Adams, MBCIA Executive Director. “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. So, when we’re asked why we support this effort, we say – the better question is, why wouldn’t we?”
The MBCIA used its remarks to challenge the old assumption that industrial growth and conservation must compete. Instead, the Authority shared how Macon-Bibb is redefining what progress looks like through innovation, collaboration, and reinvestment in the community.
“In today’s economy, manufacturers and distributors are solving for sustainability in real ways,” said Robby Fountain, MBCIA Board Chairman. “We’re seeing companies turn waste streams into raw materials, rethink logistics, and invest in the quality of life around them.”
Adams also pointed to longtime industrial partners like YKK Corporation of America, whose “Cycle of Goodness” philosophy – no one prospers without rendering benefit to others – resonates deeply with the MBCIA’s community-first approach.
The Economic Steward Award highlights the broader impact of the MBCIA’s work: to make Macon-Bibb a place where economic opportunity and natural beauty support one another, rather than compete.
“To ONPPI – thank you,” Adams said. “Thank you for letting us be part of something bold and transformative. Go get us a national park. And know that we’re with you, every step of the way.”
In Macon-Bibb, Progress Is a Team Sport
Celebrating Economic Development Week 2025 and the Power of Partnerships
From May 12 to 16, the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) joined communities around the world to celebrate Economic Development Week. This global initiative, led by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), honors the people, programs, and partnerships that drive economic growth.
The MBCIA also marked the week by celebrating its recent reaccreditation as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the IEDC. This recognition places the MBCIA among just 85 economic development organizations worldwide to hold the designation.
The truth is, no single project, announcement, or win happens alone. Growth in Macon-Bibb is powered by relationships—with community and state partners and side-by-side with our industry leaders. That’s the power of partnerships, and it’s what Economic Development Week is all about.
On Monday, we kicked things off by reflecting on a banner year. Between new jobs and major investments, there was plenty to celebrate. The message is clear: our foundation is strong and built for long-term opportunity.
On Tuesday, we highlighted two of the biggest wins: First Quality’s $418 million expansion and Irving Consumer Products’ $600 million investment. Together, that’s 700 new jobs and more than 400 retained. The MBCIA helped move both across the finish line, proving that when the right partners are at the table, both industry and our community benefit.
Wednesday was about emphasizing the power of partnerships. Drawing inspiration from Macon-Bibb’s rich musical heritage, the MBCIA celebrated the “powerhouse lineup” of local partners driving economic progress. These collaborations are instrumental in orchestrating Macon-Bibb’s continued success.
On Thursday, we gave a big thank you to our partners at the Georgia Department of Economic Development. From Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) site certification to statewide and international marketing support, this partnership strengthens Macon-Bibb’s ability to compete across Georgia and around the world.
And Friday, we closed the week by recognizing one of the MBCIA’s strongest supporters: our local leadership. Working alongside the MBCIA team, they help bring groundbreaking economic advancements throughout the county. Their continued support and shared vision to make Macon-Bibb the premier place to live and work in Georgia have been a pivotal part of our success.
“Economic development works best when it’s a team sport,” said Robby Fountain, MBCIA Board Chairman. “This week was a reminder that progress isn’t powered by any one organization—it’s powered by partnerships. And that’s exactly what we’ve got here in Macon-Bibb.”
Industry Highlight: Embraer
The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) is proud to spotlight Embraer, a Brazilian aerospace company and valued partner in Macon-Bibb County’s industrial community. Since establishing its Aircraft Maintenance Services branch at the Middle Georgia Regional Airport (MCN) in 2018, Embraer has invested more than $1.6 million into the region and reaffirmed its commitment by signing a new 15-year lease in 2024.
Embraer is a crucial part of the ecosystem at MCN, working alongside other aviation and logistics companies that power Middle Georgia’s economy. Their presence helps solidify the airport’s role as a center for innovation, maintenance, and manufacturing.
This year, the MBCIA approved funding to replace the roof of Embraer’s facility at the airport. This investment reflects our ongoing support for existing industries and our commitment to helping them grow and succeed.
We were also honored to welcome Raquel Freitas, Trade and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Specialist with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), for a tour of Embraer’s local operations. During her visit, we had the rare opportunity to see one of Embraer’s most iconic aircraft, the very plane that transports the Brazilian national soccer team.
We are proud to support Embraer and look forward to the future we are building together.
Industry Highlight: Prince Service & Manufacturing
Prince Service & Manufacturing, a leading provider of high-value metal fabrication and precision manufacturing, has acquired adjoining property at its Macon location to support long-term growth, expand capacity, and create new job opportunities. This investment reflects Prince’s commitment to building a strong industrial base in Middle Georgia and helping position Macon-Bibb as a hub for advanced manufacturing in the Southeast.
“The MBCIA is happy to see an existing industry continuing their growth and investment in Macon-Bibb County” said Robby Fountain, MBCIA Board Chairman.
Learn more at www.princeservice.com
Other Exciting News
From national conferences to local celebrations, this month was full of momentum for Macon-Bibb County and our partners. Here’s a look at three stories that showcase the connections, collaboration, and community spirit driving our region forward:
- Last week, MBCIA Executive Director Stephen Adams attended SelectUSA in Maryland, where he joined global leaders and partners like Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) to advance foreign investment in Macon-Bibb.
- We raised a glass to Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED on National Have a Coke Day, celebrating their lasting presence and continued success in our region.
- During Small Business Week, we spotlighted the entrepreneurs and local businesses, like Elliott Machine Shop, whose passion keeps Macon-Bibb moving forward.
Prospect Activity
We are pleased to highlight the current Industrial Prospect activity. This activity demonstrates the MBCIA’s continuous commitment to creating a successful business environment in Macon-Bibb County.
