For the first time ever, Owensboro has achieved a double ranking in Site Selection Magazine’s prestigious 2024 Governor’s Cups, marking a historic milestone for the region’s economic development. Greater Owensboro has secured two spots in Tier 3 Top Metros Top 10 categories—Total Project Count and Per Capita—a feat never before accomplished by Greater Owensboro. Owensboro’s last appearance in this listing was a single ranking in 2017, making this breakthrough recognition even more remarkable and underscoring Owensboro-Daviess County’s rapid growth and economic momentum.
“Once again Kentucky is being recognized nationally for our continued economic success and job creation for our residents,” shared Governor Andy Beshear. “I am proud to see so many of our thriving communities recognized in this year’s Top Metropolitan and Micropolitan rankings. It reflects the incredible work being done at the local and state levels to build an even better future in our New Kentucky Home. Congratulations to Owensboro and Daviess County on this year’s strong placement.”
Owensboro tied for 9th place in Tier 3 Top Metros by Total Projects and 7th place in Tier 3 Top Metros Per Capita. This national ranking reinforces Greater Owensboro’s growing influence as a hub for economic development, reflecting a banner year in job creation and investment.
“This achievement is a testament to the incredible collaboration between our businesses, government leaders, and dedicated workforce. Owensboro’s success is the result of a shared vision and unwavering commitment to economic growth,” shared Claude Bacon, President & CEO of the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation. “By working together, we are creating opportunities that will benefit our community for generations to come.”
Site Selection Magazine’s rankings are widely regarded by corporate real estate analysts as an industry scoreboard, influencing decision-making among top executives. The magazine reaches 42,000 corporate site selection professionals, making Owensboro’s recognition a key opportunity to attract further business interest.
“Congratulations [to Owensboro] on an outstanding achievement,” shared Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development Secretary Jeff Noel. “The most important enablers in economic development are providing the very best service to existing and prospective companies, being active in leading the access to and use of workforce tools, focusing on placemaking and quality of life issues, including embracing tourism while always cultivating innovation and entrepreneurship. The local government and economic development leaders have created a collaborative culture that allows the special people of Owensboro and Daviess County to shine and garner this prestigious recognition.”
To capitalize on this achievement, GOEDC has secured a full-page advertisement in Site Selection Magazine and the Kentucky Economic Development Guide, ensuring Greater Owensboro’s success story reaches a national audience of site selectors, developers, and industry leaders.
“This double ranking is a clear indicator of our region’s strong economic foundation and commitment to strategic growth,” shared Daviess County Judge Executive Charlie Castlen. “This achievement would not be possible without our hardworking citizens, forward-thinking businesses, and the partnerships that make Daviess County a great place to live, work, and invest.”
“The success we are seeing in Owensboro is the result of years of vision, planning, and execution,” shared City of Owensboro Mayor Tom Watson. “These rankings reflect our ability to attract new businesses, create jobs, and foster a thriving economic climate. We are proud of this accomplishment and excited for what the future holds.”
For more information about Owensboro’s economic development efforts, visit edc.owensboro.com or call 270-926-4339.
About Selection Criteria
Populated all year long by the Conway Data research team, Site Selection’s Conway Projects Database focuses on new corporate end-user facility projects with significant impact, including headquarters, manufacturing plants, R&D operations, data centers and logistics sites, among others. It does not track retail and government projects, nor schools, hospitals or infrastructure investments. New facilities and expansions included in the analyses must meet at least one of three criteria: (a) a capital investment of at least US$1 million, (b) at least 20 new jobs or (c) at least 20,000 sq. ft. of new floor area.
About Site Selection Magazine
Site Selection Magazine is a leading publication covering corporate real estate strategy and economic development, providing insights into the factors that drive business expansion and investment decisions. Published by Conway Data, the magazine is widely recognized for its in-depth analysis, industry rankings, and annual awards that highlight top-performing regions, states, and communities in economic development. With a readership of business leaders, site selectors, and policymakers worldwide, Site Selection serves as a trusted resource for companies seeking the best locations for growth and success.
About the Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation
The Greater Owensboro Economic Development Corporation (GOEDC) is committed to fostering economic growth by supporting entrepreneurship, business expansion, and workforce development. Through initiatives like National Entrepreneurship Week, GOEDC empowers local businesses and strengthens the region’s economy.