The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) announces that the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) has been recognized as one of only 67 economic development organizations accredited as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO).

“MBCIA displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Jeff Finkle.

The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an onsite visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the candidate economic development organization.

Earning the AEDO accreditation informs the community and future industry prospects that MBCIA has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well-placed and MBCIA will facilitate an environment for success. This accreditation reinforces MBCIA’s board and employee commitment to transparency and accountability to the citizens of Macon-Bibb County.

“The Authority has put processes in place over the last few years to build the trust of our community and organizations that make Macon-Bibb County their home,” says Robby Fountain, Chairman of the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority. “The hard work of the employees and board doesn’t stop here. Along with our strategic partners, the Authority will continue to work hard for our industries.”

Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years and is accomplished through documentation submission and/or onsite visits by a team of the AEDO subcommittee.

“We want Macon-Bibb County to be the number one place in all of Georgia to start and grow a business, and this recognition will help our county stand out as a serious contender,” says Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester Miller. “It also shows we will put the work in to welcome them to our community and make it as easy as possible for them to grow here.”