Kentucky has received national recognition for its robust economic growth, with industry publication Area Development awarding the commonwealth its Silver Shovel Award for the second consecutive year and naming GE Appliances a Manufacturing Project of the Year. Governor Andy Beshear announced the accolades today, highlighting the state's continued economic momentum.
"We worked hard last year to attract great companies and create more good-paying jobs for our people, which resulted in our state’s second-best year on record for new private sector investments," said Gov. Beshear. He added, "This recognition reflects that Kentucky has the infrastructure and workforce needed to continue attracting the businesses of the future." This marks Kentucky's fourth Gold or Silver Shovel designation during the Beshear administration.
Notable projects from 2025 contributing to Kentucky's ranking include General Matter's $1.5 billion uranium enrichment facility in McCracken County, Apple's over $2 billion investment in Corning's Mercer County facility for iPhone and Apple Watch cover glass, and Ford Motor Co.'s nearly $2 billion investment in its Louisville Assembly Plant for a new electric pickup truck. Kroger also established a new $391 million distribution center in Simpson County, creating approximately 430 jobs.
GE Appliances, a Haier company, was recognized among 20 projects nationwide as a Manufacturing Project of the Year. The company's June 2025 announcement detailed a $490 million investment and 800 new full-time jobs at its Appliance Park headquarters in Jefferson County, moving front-load washer production to the facility with new lines starting in 2027.
Area Development's annual awards acknowledge states for attracting high-value investment projects and significant job creation, based on factors like new jobs relative to population, investment amounts, new facilities, and industry diversity. Kentucky's consistent recognition underscores a period of unprecedented economic growth, with over $50 billion in private-sector investments and more than 70,000 jobs announced under Gov. Beshear's administration. The state also achieved record exports, falling unemployment rates across all counties, and improved credit ratings.