The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) was recognized by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) as one of only 85 global economic development organizations as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). This is MBCIA’s second time receiving the accreditation.

“The Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Nathan Ohle.

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 interview. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, programs, and staff of the candidate economic development organization.

"Receiving this accreditation for a second time reaffirms the MBCIA’s dedication and commitment to maintaining a high level of excellence, assuring that our industries’ and community members’ trust is well-placed,” said MBCIA Executive Director Stephen Adams. “We’re honored to be recognized again, and it encourages us to only work harder in our commitment to transparency and accountability.”

Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years. The MBCIA first received the accreditation in 2021.

“Several years ago, processes were put in place to strengthen the trust of the industries and community members that call Macon home,” said MBCIA Chairman Robby Fountain. “Dedication to adhering to these processes is what ultimately led us to be recognized as an AEDO for the first time in 2021. Refining those processes and constantly striving to do better work in Macon-Bibb County is what led us to be recognized again. The hard work doesn’t stop here. We’re grateful to work alongside our stakeholders, community partners, and industries to continue to grow and make Macon an even better place to live and work.”

"It's our entire team that has made our community one of the top places in the state to do business, and this accreditation shows that to the rest of the state, country, and the world," said Mayor Lester Miller. "Their expertise and love for our community is what helps attract industries here and keeps them here for decades. I'm proud of all they do for Macon-Bibb."