Partnership Gwinnett, the region’s leading public-private economic development initiative, hosted its annual Economic Outlook on March 12, 2026, at The John C. Maxwell Leadership Center in Duluth. Now in its sixth consecutive year, the event welcomed more than 300 of Gwinnett’s top business leaders, regional site consultants, and economic development business partners for an in-depth study on the region’s economic forecast.

Presented by Gateway85 Community Improvement District, the 2026 Economic Outlook featured a discussion with local leaders including Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners; Jay Dennard of Northside Hospital; Jamila Pope of Intuitive; Dr. Al Taylor of Gwinnett County Public Schools; and Lisa Anders of Explore Gwinnett. The panel explored what continues to position Gwinnett as a competitive business environment and how their industries and partnerships are helping shape the county’s economic trajectory through 2026.

The discussion highlighted the key forces shaping the region’s momentum, including expanding health care assets, the strength of tourism and hospitality, and the continued alignment between public and private sector leaders to support business investment and long-term regional competitiveness.

“Gwinnett continues to stand out as a community where strong partnerships and forward-thinking leadership drive opportunity,” said Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners. “Conversations like those at Economic Outlook help ensure we remain aligned as we work to strengthen our economy and create opportunities for residents and businesses alike.”

Following the panel discussion, Dr. Alfie Meek analyzed key trends shaping the national economy, including artificial intelligence, onshoring, inflation, housing, and the labor market. He projected inflation will rise slightly due to health care and energy costs, while the labor market softens as AI adoption increases. Meek also noted consumer spending may slow later in the year, housing construction will likely remain steady, and onshoring and AI-driven productivity could support a rebound in U.S. manufacturing.

“Events like Economic Outlook give regional leaders the ability to step back, examine the data and understand the broader trends impacting our business community,” said Robert Michener, Executive Director of Gateway85 Community Improvement District. “By bringing industry perspectives together with economic analysis, we help ensure our region remains proactive and prepared for future growth.”

During the program, Partnership Gwinnett also unveiled its 2025 Annual Report, highlighting the initiative’s continued impact on economic growth across the county. In 2025, Partnership Gwinnett supported projects that generated $395 million in capital investment, 1,300 new jobs, and more than 2,100 jobs retained across the community. The results reflect the organization’s ongoing efforts to attract new companies, support the expansion of existing industry, and strengthen Gwinnett’s position globally as a strategic business driver.

“Economic Outlook reflects exactly what Partnership Gwinnett strives to do—bringing leaders together around data, insight, and collaboration,” said Kevin Carmichael, Senior Vice President of Partnership Gwinnett. “By empowering our business community with a clear understanding of market trends and regional opportunities, we can continue attracting investment, supporting employers, and building long-term economic prosperity for Gwinnett.”

Events like Economic Outlook are part of Partnership Gwinnett’s broader strategy to convene industry leaders, share market intelligence, and foster collaboration across the region’s business community. Through programs focused on economic development, talent growth, and industry engagement, the organization continues to support Gwinnett’s momentum as a leading destination for business investment and innovation.

To learn more about Partnership Gwinnett’s economic development initiatives, upcoming programs, and to view the full 2025 Annual Report, visit PartnershipGwinnett.com.