Skip to main content

The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) presented a comprehensive strategic plan to its stakeholders in a board meeting this afternoon, culminating in a six-month planning effort in partnership with VisionFirst Advisors. 

The plan, a tooth-to-tail evaluation of MBCIA’s economic development program, was presented by Gray Swoope, VisionFirst president, and chief executive officer. Swoope, a recognized national leader in economic development and site selection, praised MBCIA for taking steps to strengthen its competitive edge in the economic development arena. 

“Macon-Bibb County has a lot of great resources to offer and a wonderful story to tell,” said Swoope. “It was our pleasure collaborating with them to ensure they are putting their best foot forward in future site selection opportunities.”

With the plan’s presentation to the board members, MBCIA staff and stakeholders now have a roadmap to accomplish strategic goals and objectives in recruiting and retaining large industries in the county. According to Mayor Lester Miller, the timing couldn’t be better. 

“I applaud MBCIA for sourcing experts in economic development to strengthen our position in an increasingly competitive environment,” said Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller. “I have the utmost confidence that our MBCIA team, in collaboration with our community stakeholders, can deliver great results for our community with this plan.” 

MBCIA chairman Robby Fountain echoed the mayor’s sentiment.

 “On behalf of the MBCIA’s Board of Directors, we are grateful to VisionFirst Advisors and our participating community members for assisting us in evaluating and retooling our economic development processes,” said Fountain. “We look to be the most competitive for future opportunities and to enhance our overall economic development successes for the citizens of Macon-Bibb County.”

The full strategic plan can be viewed here. 

About VisionFirst Advisors

VisionFirst Advisors established itself as a trusted partner in the economic development consulting field with various clients across 30 states and five Fortune 500 companies. They bring a skilled group of professionals to the table that has worked in every economic development area.