Georgia Department of
Economic Development

The Georgia Department of Economic Development(GDEcD), originally called the Department of Commerce, was established by law, in 1949 and replaced the former Agricultural and Industrial Development Board. The code establishing GDITT is OCGA 50-7-1 through 50-7-41.

Our office is the lead agency in state government empowered to influence, affect, and enhance economic development in Georgia. In order to achieve the highest degree of effectiveness and efficiency, the department engaged in a dynamic process to create a strategic plan. It presents the strategics, focused both internally and externally, that will ensure that Georgia maintains its competitive position in a global economy.

Our office consists of 201 employees under the leadership of Commissioner Craig Lesser. We promote the economic development of Georgia. The primary objective of the department is to create jobs, and therefore economic well-being, through the promotion of Georgia as a business location or a tourist destination. Deployed across the state, with offices in each of the 11 service delivery regions, and in 13 nations around the world who work to carry out the functions of GDEcD. GDEcD is overseen by a board of directors, made up of 20 members appointed by the governor. GDEcD co-operates and partners with other statewide economic and community development agencies, college, universities, and a variety of corporate entities to accomplish its mission.

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