Page 56 - Athens New Comers Guide 2023

talented workforce to create the perfect and advanced and precision manufacturers, workforce, ranking among the best U.S.
environment for business success. As companies benefit from Athens’ central universities for licensing activity. UGA set
the eastern anchor of Georgia’s Innovation location and workforce. a record $545.6 million in research and
Crescent, not only is Athens nestled in one development spending in fiscal year 2022.
of the nation’s most economically vibrant As a testament to Athens’ desirability,
locations, but also it is well-positioned to life sciences manufacturer Meissner “Reaching this milestone is a testament to
attract talent. Corporation recently announced it will our faculty and their innovative, cutting-
invest nearly $250 million in an Athens edge research that promises solutions
Athens is widely recognized as a creative facility and create more than 1,700 jobs to some of the world’s most pressing
and innovative community, home not only over the next eight years. The company is challenges,” said S. Jack Hu, senior vice
to a thriving entertainment scene but also to a leader in advanced microfiltration and president for academic affairs and provost
a hugely successful base of manufacturing therapeutic manufacturing systems. in a press release.
companies. From biotechnology and More than 900 products based on UGA
pharmaceuticals, healthcare and life The University of Georgia (UGA) is a top research have reached the market,
sciences, craft brewing and beverages, partner for industry, innovation, and including 250 products in just the last five
years. UGA-affiliated startups, through jobs
created, have an annual economic impact
of $531 million, including $322 million
in Georgia. The university’s Innovation
District is leading entrepreneurship and
innovation by fostering an environment
where students, faculty, and companies
can work together to find solutions and
recruit talent for businesses.

As Athens’ business community moves
ahead in 2023, it continues to enjoy
a variety of state and local resources,
creative energy, high quality of life, and a
low cost of living. This makes the Athens-
Clarke County area a highly attractive
place for businesses and workforce talent
to locate, relocate, or expand.

WORKFORCE
Athens benefits from a wealth of
educational and workforce training
opportunities in the community. From a
world-class public university to a leading
technical college system serving the
Athens area, Athens has the educated,
innovative population that businesses
want and the training programs and
resources they need.

University of Georgia, Piedmont University,
and University of North Georgia have local
campuses while Athens Technical College
serves as another vital workforce partner,
offering a variety of programs and classes
aligned to high-demand skills in Athens
and the region.

Courtesy of Athens Tech

52 Business and Industry Athens Area Chamber of Commerce • www.athensga.com • (706) 549-6800