TN.gov Newsroom

“I am delighted that Tennessee has been recognized by Area Development for our efforts to create higher skilled, better paying jobs for our citizens. The investments Tennessee has attracted in the past year have positioned our state for the next generation of new jobs and increased growth,” said Governor Phil Bredesen. 

 

Economic development projects announced in 2008 were considered for the award. Based on the number of high-value added jobs per capita, amount of investment, number of new facilities and industry diversity, Tennessee achieved the highest weighted overall score. 

“The projects we’ve welcomed to our state have been the result of many months and, in some cases, years of hard work, strategic planning and cooperation among those at the local, state and federal levels. We aren’t resting on our laurels either, but continually looking at ways to make Tennessee’s business climate the best in the country,” said Commissioner Matt Kisber of the Department of Economic and Community Development.

 

Additionally, Volkswagen Group of America’s announcement that it would invest $1 billion in a new Chattanooga, Tenn. plant and employ 2,000 people will be recognized as a Project of the Year. The Chattanooga production facility figures prominently in Volkswagen’s goal of reaching one million car sales in the U.S. by 2018. 

 

The magazine’s annual Gold and Silver Shovel Awards recognize state economic development agencies that drive significant job creation through innovative policies, infrastructure improvements, processes and promotions that attract new employers and investments in new and expanded facilities. 

 

Complete details on the Gold and Silver Shovel Award winners will be published in the June/July issue of Area Development and posted online at www.areadevelopment.com. 

 

The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development’s mission is to create higher skilled, better paying jobs for all Tennesseans. The department seeks to attract new corporate investment in Tennessee and works with Tennessee companies to facilitate expansion and economic growth. To find out more, go to www.tnecd.gov.