The Georgia Chamber Foundation recently released the 2026 Economic Competitiveness Redbook, its most comprehensive collection of statewide economic data and the Foundation’s annual capstone project. Now in its fourth year, the Redbook serves as a key guide to Georgia’s economic achievements and forecasted trends. It helps businesses and lawmakers make informed decisions.

The Foundation team compiled the report by analyzing a wide range of economic data. Where possible, it includes state-by-state comparisons and specific findings for each of Georgia’s 159 counties, including Bartow County.

The Redbook highlights Georgia’s strong entrepreneurial activity. The state ranks fifth nationally in the number of business applications filed, which shows robust interest in launching new ventures. However, Georgia ranks 45th in the share of those applications that mature into operating businesses. These numbers underscore the need for targeted, data-driven strategies to strengthen the entrepreneurial pipeline and turn innovation into sustained economic growth.

Key highlights from the 2026 Redbook include:

  • Georgia projects a population increase of 2.2 million by 2050, with the fastest-growing group being those aged 65 and older.
  • Georgia ranks eighth nationally in tax burden, so residents pay some of the lowest taxes per person.
  • The state ranks 12th nationally for GDP growth.
  • Only 42.5 percent of Georgians hold an associate’s degree or higher, and just 61 percent of adults participate in the workforce. The report calls for strategic solutions and investments to keep Georgia at the top of the talent rankings.
  • Georgia ranks 42nd among states in physicians per 100,000 residents. It will need 66,000 more healthcare workers and must replace 173,000 workforce exits by 2032, making investments in the healthcare workforce essential.
  • Among top GDP-producing states, Georgia offers the second-most affordable utility rates. Its vertically integrated, regulated market delivers low consumer costs while supporting long-term economic growth.

A digital copy of the Redbook is available on the Georgia Chamber’s website at gachamber.com/redbook.