Fulton County Development Authority

Fulton County Development Authority is a public agency responsible for promoting economic development in Fulton County, Georgia, which includes the city of Atlanta and surrounding areas such as Alpharetta, Roswell, and Sandy Springs. The authority works closely with organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Department of Economic Development, and Atlanta Regional Commission to attract new businesses and investments to the region. By collaborating with institutions like Georgia Institute of Technology, Emory University, and Georgia State University, the authority aims to create a favorable business environment that fosters growth and innovation. This involves working with local governments, such as the City of Atlanta and Fulton County Government, to provide incentives and support for businesses looking to relocate or expand in the area.

● Overview

The Fulton County Development Authority plays a crucial role in shaping the economic landscape of Fulton County, Georgia, which is home to a diverse range of industries, including film and television production, logistics, and healthcare. The authority's efforts are focused on creating jobs, stimulating economic growth, and improving the overall quality of life for residents in cities like College Park, East Point, and Fairburn. To achieve these goals, the authority works with partners like the Small Business Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce, and Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta to provide resources and support for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Additionally, the authority collaborates with organizations like the National Association of Counties and International Economic Development Council to stay up-to-date on best practices and trends in economic development.

● History

The Fulton County Development Authority was established to address the economic development needs of Fulton County, Georgia, which has a rich history dating back to the American Civil War and the Reconstruction era. The authority's creation was influenced by the Georgia General Assembly and the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, which recognized the need for a dedicated agency to promote economic growth and development in the region. Over the years, the authority has worked with notable figures like Maynard Jackson, the first African American mayor of Atlanta, and Andrew Young, a civil rights leader and former United States Ambassador to the United Nations. The authority has also been involved in various initiatives and projects, including the development of the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Georgia World Congress Center.

● Responsibilities

The Fulton County Development Authority is responsible for a range of activities, including business recruitment, retention, and expansion, as well as providing incentives and support for new and existing businesses in Fulton County, Georgia. The authority works closely with organizations like the Georgia Department of Labor and the U.S. Department of Labor to provide workforce development programs and training initiatives. The authority also collaborates with institutions like the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta and the Atlanta Federal Reserve to stay informed about economic trends and conditions. Furthermore, the authority is involved in initiatives like the New Markets Tax Credit Program and the Community Development Block Grant program, which are administered by the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

● Economic Impact

The Fulton County Development Authority has a significant impact on the economy of Fulton County, Georgia, which is a major hub for industries like logistics, technology, and healthcare. The authority's efforts have helped to create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and attract new investments to the region, including major projects like the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the SunTrust Park. The authority's work has also been recognized by organizations like the International Economic Development Council and the National Association of Counties, which have awarded the authority for its innovative approaches to economic development. Additionally, the authority has collaborated with companies like Coca-Cola, Home Depot, and UPS to support their growth and expansion in the region.

● Board of Directors

The Fulton County Development Authority is governed by a board of directors, which includes representatives from the Fulton County Government, the City of Atlanta, and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. The board is responsible for setting the authority's strategic direction and overseeing its operations, which involve working with partners like the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Atlanta Regional Commission. The board members are appointed by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners and the Mayor of Atlanta, and they serve terms of varying lengths. The authority's board has included notable members like Kasim Reed, the former Mayor of Atlanta, and John Eaves, the former Chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

● Projects and Initiatives

The Fulton County Development Authority is involved in a range of projects and initiatives, including the development of the Aerotropolis Atlanta and the Fort McPherson redevelopment project. The authority has also collaborated with organizations like the Atlanta BeltLine and the City of Atlanta's Department of Planning to support the growth and development of the city's neighborhoods, including Inman Park, Virginia-Highland, and Westside Atlanta. Additionally, the authority has worked with companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon to support their expansion in the region, and has provided incentives and support for small businesses and entrepreneurs through programs like the Small Business Administration's 8(a) program and the Minority Business Development Agency.