Third round of OneGeorgia funding brings total rural site investment to $21 million since FY 2025 launch
ATLANTA — Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced the third round of awards under Georgia’s Rural Site Development Initiative (RSDI), delivering $4.3 million in new funding to accelerate industrial site readiness across rural Georgia. With this latest round, the program has now committed $21 million in rural development funding since its launch in FY 2025.
The RSDI program, administered through the OneGeorgia Authority, supports infrastructure and certification efforts that position rural communities to compete for major job-creating projects.
“Georgia is committed to bringing quality jobs and investment to every region of the state,” said Governor Kemp. “The Rural Site Development Initiative helps ensure opportunity reaches every ZIP code and strengthens the long-term economic outlook of our rural communities.”
RSDI grants support site improvements and Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) certification, a nationally recognized program that verifies industrial sites are development-ready. Local communities provide matching funds based on program requirements.
State leaders emphasized the importance of certified, infrastructure-ready sites in today’s competitive location environment.
“Workforce development and economic growth are vital to the success of rural Georgia,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “This initiative continues to open new doors for communities across the state.”
“Investing in rural Georgia strengthens our statewide competitiveness and creates new pathways to prosperity,” added Speaker Jon Burns.
Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Commissioner Christopher Nunn noted that site readiness plays a critical role in attracting private investment, while Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) Commissioner Pat Wilson highlighted the importance of development-ready properties for logistics and manufacturing projects.
“Communities with certified, ready-to-build sites have a clear advantage when competing for new projects,” Wilson said.
Site Improvement Grant Awards
Camden County Joint Development Authority
Received $2 million for entry road construction and site readiness improvements at Coastal Georgia Commerce Park.
Total project investment: $7.3 million
Toombs County Development Authority
Awarded $2 million for improvements at the 599-acre, GRAD-certified One Toombs Industrial Park.
Total project investment: $2.7 million
GRAD Certification Scholarships
Brantley County Development Authority
$45,000 to certify the 103-acre Satilla Industrial Park
Total project cost: $49,500
Candler County Industrial Authority
$103,500 to renew and expand certification at Metter-Candler I-16 Industrial Park
Total project cost: $115,000
Rome-Floyd Development Authority
$20,625 to certify the 200-acre Enterprise Corner Industrial Park
Total project cost: $27,500
Waycross-Ware County Development Authority
$161,500 to certify the 391-acre Waycross and Ware County Airport Industrial Park
Total project cost: $188,900
Grant Eligibility and Impact
Eligible uses include site studies, grading, and infrastructure improvements that enhance development readiness. All projects must meet OneGeorgia Authority criteria and comply with state regulations.
By investing in certified, infrastructure-ready industrial sites, Georgia continues to strengthen its ability to attract advanced manufacturing, logistics, and distribution projects while supporting job creation in rural communities.
