Big News: MBCIA Earns Top Honor—Again!
Hard work pays off—and at MBCIA, we just got proof of that again! We’re excited to share that we’ve been recertified as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO) by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
What does that mean? Think of it like a gold star for economic development. This recognition is awarded only to the best of the best—just 85 organizations worldwide have earned it! And getting it isn’t easy. Our team underwent a tough, two-part process where industry experts took a deep dive into everything we do—how we bring in new businesses, how we support the ones already here, and how we help Macon-Bibb grow.
This is our second time earning this honor, and it proves that our work is making a real impact. But it’s not just about getting the accreditation—it’s about what it represents. It means we’re following best practices, meeting the highest industry standards, and making a real difference in our community.
We couldn’t have done this without the dedication of our team, our partners, and everyone who believes in the future of Macon-Bibb. So, what’s next? We’ll keep doing what we do best—building opportunities, supporting businesses, and making sure our community continues to thrive.
Thanks to everyone who helped make this happen—here’s to even bigger things ahead!
I-75 Business Park: A Hub for Industry Growth
Updated signage at I-75 Business Park showcases each of the industries within the Park: Tyson Foods, Yancey Bros., Middle Georgia Freightliner, Tractor Supply Co, FedEx, and YKK, AP.
I-75 Business Park stands as a prime example of long-term investment fueling economic success in Macon-Bibb. What started as 430 acres of undeveloped land in 1999 has grown into a thriving hub for major industries, home to Amazon, FedEx, Tractor Supply Company, Tyson Foods, Yancey Brothers, Middle Georgia Freightliner, and YKK AP, which recently expanded its facilities.
Building a site like this doesn’t happen overnight. Strategic planning and key partnerships made it possible, and one of the earliest and most impactful collaborations was with the Macon Water Authority (MWA). In 1999, MWA and MBCIA entered a 25-year agreement, where MWA agreed to invest up to $704,000 per year into a revolving fund to be used to develop industrial parks and related infrastructure — a commitment to become known as the 704 Fund. The agreement still stands today– 26 years later – building upon its successes and continuing as a major engine for the growth of Macon-Bibb County.
With these resources, I-75 Business Park took shape. The first major projects focused on bringing in water, sewage, and roadways, including the development of Frank Amerson Parkway. By 2006, the park welcomed its first industry, Yancey Brothers, followed by Tractor Supply Company in 2012. But it wasn’t until Tyson Foods (then known as Hillshire) joined in 2014 that the park was considered fully developed.
Now, in 2025, I-75 Business Park is a key driver of economic growth in Macon-Bibb, attracting and retaining major employers. The long-term planning behind the park—and partnerships like the one with MWA—help ensure that MBCIA can continue to market high-quality industrial sites to businesses looking to grow in our community.
A strong foundation leads to lasting success, and I-75 Business Park is proof of that.
704 Greenlights Growth
MBCIA ensures that infrastructure, signage, and facilities in and around our industrial parks remain modern and well-maintained.
As part of our commitment to YKK, AP, we are working on installing a traffic light on Sardis Church Road. Thanks to the 704 Fund agreement with Macon Water Authority (MWA), we’ve begun clearing land for the five-acre tract.
We’ll continue to communicate with our industries to ensure that their facilities are well maintained!
Kicking Off 2025 with Wins
We’ve started 2025 off strong, and the MBCIA is looking forward to another year of success. After a restful holiday season spent with friends and family, we’re back, working hard for Macon’s industries and residents.
Throughout the MBCIA’s 2025 newsletters, you’ll receive updates from our team members and learn about how we’re putting investment dollars to good use. Here’s what we’re currently celebrating:
- Macon-Bibb County reached milestone investment of over $1.2 billion at the end of 2024
- MBCIA Executive Director Stephen Adams was named Board Member of Georgia Economic Developers Association (GEDA) where he will continue to meet with numerous economic development organizations across the state
- Attended the 6th annual Global Trade and Investment Symposium in Macon, where business leaders from Georgia and beyond gathered to celebrate the successes of international partnerships
- Ranked a Top 10 Metro City by Site Selection Magazine, a premier economic development publication
- Celebrated Macon Day at the Capital in Atlanta alongside other organizations, legislators, and stakeholders
- MBCIA Board Member Dr. Cassandra Washington and Existing Industry Manager Eleyce Coleman hosted industry visits via the CD2 program
- We’re looking forward to participating in the World’s Largest Kazoo Ensemble at Atrium Health Amphitheater as we aim to beat London’s world record—plus, the 2025 Cherry Blossom Festival is just around the corner!
PILOT Industry Highlight: Irving Consumer Products
Irving Consumer Products is one of the many appreciated participants in the Payment In Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) program. Irving is headquartered in Canada, but has an expansive plant in Macon, where household tissue items are manufactured. Irving received bond approvals for a massive expansion, set to increase production by over 50 percent —a major boost for Macon’s economy.
Irving was a key contributor to Macon’s $1.2 billion in private investment in 2024, and we look forward to their continued impact on the community in 2025.
Macon-Bibb SPLOST Support
Since 2018, the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) has helped secure $1.8 billion in private investment—a testament to the economic opportunities made possible by the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). This initiative is pivotal for MBCIA and the sustained economic growth of Macon-Bibb County, directly contributing to job creation, workforce expansion, and long-term prosperity for local industries and residents.
As the March 18 vote approaches, the MBCIA team encourages you to support the renewal of SPLOST, which will fund critical improvements to roads, bridges, airport facilities, and more. Each of these is a key asset that supports business expansion and attracts new industries. Upgraded infrastructure not only ensures efficient operations for existing businesses but also fosters a thriving economic landscape by attracting new enterprises.
Supporting the renewal of SPLOST is not just an investment in infrastructure—it is a commitment to fostering business growth, enhancing our economy, and securing a stronger future for Macon.
For more detailed information on the SPLOST renewal and its impact, please visit Go BIG for Macon-Bibb.
Sincerely,
Stephen Adams
Executive Director, MBCIA
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.
