The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) announced that it is accepting nominations for the 2020 Georgia Emerging Automotive Recognition (GEAR) Awards, previously known as the Georgia Automotive Awards. The updated GEAR Awards, for 2020 and beyond, are designed to recognize forward movement in the automotive and mobility industries through innovation and emerging technologies. Additional information and applications are available at georgia.org/GaGEAR. 

“Georgia’s automotive and mobility industries have shown incredible resilience this year and continue to drive innovation and growth in every corner of our state,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “We look forward to celebrating Georgia’s automotive and mobility companies and suppliers every year, and would like to thank all of them for helping the state become the automotive manufacturing center that it is today.”

The Georgia Automotive Awards began in 2016 to showcase the collective achievements of Georgia’s robust automotive industry who have contributed to the state’s competitive advantage in the sector.

This year, automotive and mobility companies will be recognized in the following categories: Supplier of the Year - employing 200 or more people, Supplier of the Year - employing 199 or fewer people, Transportation Equipment Manufacturer of the Year, Automotive Innovation Award, and Citizenship Award.

Anyone may nominate a company, and enterprises are allowed to nominate themselves for an award. Nominations will be accepted through August 14, and will be reviewed by a diverse committee of experts who retain a deep understanding of the manufacturing industry. Winners will be announced in the fall.