Why Jackson County

We are serving prospective businesses like never before.

Jackson County Mississippi

We’re here to tell an exciting story – and share the deep data – about the numerous opportunities in Jackson County.

Why Jackson County

Welcome to Jackson County! From existing buildings, to raw land, and industrial sites we have what you need to take the next step.

Education

With our award-winning school districts, nationally acclaimed community college, and two research institutions, we equip our children with a great education, both academic and skilled, that will give them the tools that they need to be successful employees in the workforce. 

College students

Livability

Jackson County, a key player on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, is the perfect place for adventure seekers, retirees, young families, and anyone in between. We are home to a vibrant culture, full of outdoor recreational activities and picturesque scenery. With museums, state parks, wildlife refuges, beaches, fishing, diverse arts, golf courses, numerous festivals, and more, Jackson County truly has something for everyone.

Walter Anderson Museum of Art
Sunset in Jackson County Mississippi

Local Business and Government

Justin Sward, Owner and CEO, American Baitworks on the opening of American Baitworks: 

“The JCEDF, The Port Authority and the Board of Supervisors in Jackson County, that trio of groups that allowed this to happen, and run smooth, without their support and leadership, there is no way that this would have happened in the time line that it happened”

“There is no hidden agendas in Jackson County. Once our partners come together and we meet, we’re all laser focused on what is the need and what is the unmet need and how can we make our community thrive” Tee McCovey, President and CEO of United Way George and Jackson Counties.

Innovation, Research, and Technology

To remain competitive in economic development, Jackson County understands the paramount importance of evolving with the current workforce and job market. Jackson County has two research institutions (the University of Southern Mississippi and Mississippi State University) along with several industries and businesses, such as Micro-Methods, NOAA Southeast Fisheries, and Science Center, and Northrop Grumman Aerospace Systems that are dedicated to research, innovation, and improving our world for the next generation.

Strategic Innovation Plan
Working alongside a nationally recognized consulting firm, the JCEDF developed a strategic innovation plan to grow the innovation economy with an emphasis on capitalizing the assets of existing defense and other industry, higher education, and federal agencies while considering Jackson County’s vast natural environment and quality of life features. In March of 2025, Jackson County hosted a groundbreaking for the MSU Northern Gulf Aquatic Research Lab, a project that supports and advances the goals outlined in our Strategic Innovation Plan

 

Two men sitting in a control room.
Two men sitting in a control room.