After Milestone 2025, Golden Isles Development Authority Sets Sights on 2026

The Brunswick-based Golden Isles Development Authority (GIDA) recently capped off a landmark fiscal year in 2025 — one marked by more than $100 million in new capital investment, over 300 new jobs, and continued momentum in strategic areas such as logistics, aerospace workforce development, and small business support.

Now, as the organization looks ahead to its next chapter, GIDA leaders are doubling down on their mission: to make Brunswick and Glynn County a thriving hub for business and industry while supporting a resilient, opportunity-rich local economy.

“This past year was foundational,” said Ryan Moore, President & CEO of the Golden Isles Development Authority. “We closed major deals, expanded our industrial portfolio and market appeal, and empowered entrepreneurs, and helped set the stage for long-term, sustainable growth.”

Among GIDA’s fiscal 2025 highlights:

  • Major industrial wins at Exit 42, with Hillpointe and JB2 breaking ground on over 560,000 square feet of combined space.
  • The grand opening of Buc-ee’s, bringing 200 new jobs and regional attention.
  • GRAD certification of the 1,500-acre Georgia Breakbulk Logistics Park and a $2 million grant to support infrastructure at the site.
  • Full occupancy of Brunswick McBride Industrial Park and sale of Eastgate Commerce Park, now privately held and generating local tax revenue.

While much of the work happens behind the scenes — meeting with developers, brokering incentive agreements, attending trade shows and economic forums — GIDA’s impact is increasingly visible across the community.

Take, for example, Wallenius Wilhelmsen, the global shipping and logistics company that opened a 300-acre vehicle processing facility at the Port of Brunswick in early 2025. GIDA played a critical role in connecting the company with local schools, workforce programs, and community partners to help it quickly source staff and become part of the local and regional fabric. 

Equally impactful, GIDA helped The Brick Martial Arts Academy enhance its new home in Downtown Brunswick with a mural and exterior upgrades to increase visibility and safety. Owner Joey Harrison said GIDA’s support “helped us create a vibrant and welcoming space that reflects who we are and what we stand for: community, growth, and empowerment.”

GIDA also plays a critical role in supporting workforce development and small business growth. In fiscal year 2025, it launched a new Talent Discovery Showcase, supported local aerospace training through a $40,000 grant to Wings of Grace, and awarded more than $120,000 in grants to entrepreneurs through its Share the Future initiative.

Those investments are paying off. Over the past five years, Glynn County’s industrial tax digest has grown by 30%, and average wages in manufacturing are now nearly 45% higher than the countywide average.

“We’re not just focused on bringing in big-name companies,” Moore said. “We’re also working to expand and equip our workforce, support our local businesses, and create conditions where people and employers can thrive together.”

Looking ahead, GIDA is continuing its push into aerospace career training, industrial logistics, and planning new site acquisitions to meet the needs of future partners. A forthcoming strategy will also support targeted sectors through incentives and infrastructure tailored to high-impact industries.

Christy Jordan, CEO of Southeast Georgia Health System and outgoing Chair of the GIDA Board of Governors, said the progress made in FY 2025 reflects years of groundwork and a strong spirit of collaboration.

“None of this would be possible without the support of our community, our local and state partners, and a dedicated, visionary staff,” Jordan said. “The momentum is real — and we’re just getting started in the Golden Isles.”

View Golden Isles Development Authoirty Year in Review