In the heart of the Southeast United States, Mississippi offers a unique blend of tradition, innovation and economic opportunity, making it an optimal destination for businesses of all sizes. From startups to internationally renowned corporations, companies in Mississippi benefit from a strong portfolio of resources and advantages that spark innovation, growth and lasting success. In fact, the state has long been known for its pro-business polices and stance. Under the leadership of Governor Tate Reeves, Mississippi has curated an even stronger, more favorable business environment by implementing new initiatives, like the Site Development Grant Program and the MFLEX universal tax credit. Since Governor Reeves took office in 2020, Mississippi has welcomed more than $20 billion in new investments in all sectors, including the automotive and aerospace industries, which contribute significantly to the state's economic growth and diversification.
A Foundation for Automotive Manufacturing
More than 20 years ago, Nissan established a massive automotive manufacturing plant in Central Mississippi, catalyzing the state’s automotive industry and paving the way for future investments from industry giants like Toyota, PACCAR, Yokohama Tire, Continental and so many others, including a slew of suppliers that located in the state to support the original three OEMs.
In the years since its opening, Nissan has invested significantly in its Canton facility, the most recent project being a $500 million investment to partially convert the plant to begin production of two all-new, all-electric vehicles for its Nissan and Inifinti brands. Today, Nissan remains the cornerstone of the industry in Mississippi, which continues to attract major new investments as automotive companies are increasingly realizing some of the world’s best automobiles and components are made in the Magnolia State.
In January, an electric commercial vehicle battery joint venture between Accelera by Cummins, PACCAR and Daimler Trucks & Buses announced it would invest nearly $2 billion to locate operations at the Chickasaw Trails Industrial Park Megasite in North Mississippi. The project, which is creating 2,000 high-paying jobs, set a record for the state’s largest payroll commitment of any major project in Mississippi’s history. The joint venture will produce battery cells for electric commercial vehicles and industrial applications while growing the state’s clean technology sector.
Education for the Automotive Workforce
Mississippi’s universities boast research centers and institutes that also are instrumental in the industry’s growth, like Mississippi State University’s Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems, the University of Mississippi’s Center for Manufacturing Excellence and the University of Southern Mississippi’s Polymer Institute. Not only are these R&D institutions ensuring Mississippi’s automotive leaders remain at the top of their game as trends evolve, but they are also developing a top-notch, readily available workforce that is prepared to take the reins and ensure Mississippi’s legacy of excellence in the industry endures.
A Rich History in Aerospace
While Mississippi’s automotive industry was jump-started by Nissan more than two decades ago, the state’s rich history in aerospace dates to the late 1930s when Pioneer Aerospace began producing military parachutes for U.S. servicemen. In the coming decades, notable achievements included the opening of Raspet Flight Research Laboratory at Mississippi State University, which continues making transformative strides in the industry, concentrating primarily on unmanned aircraft systems research. Raspet is also home to the Federal Aviation Administration’s Center of Excellence for Unmanned Aircraft Systems. Mississippi also welcomed the opening of NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Hancock County, the space organization’s largest rocket engine test facility, and the locations of Northrop Grumman, Raytheon and Aerojet Rocketdyne, among many others.
Aerospace companies that recently joined the ranks of these industry leaders include Anduril, Hush Aerospace, Rocket Lab and Skydweller. Combined, they represent roughly $153 million in new investments and the creation of more than 210 jobs.
California-based defense technology company Anduril is investing nearly $54 million and creating 58 jobs to increase its capabilities in South Mississippi. Anduril, which produces a variety of defense applications with a specialty in advanced autonomous systems, recently acquired Adranos, including its solid rocket motor production site, in Stone County. The expansion increases the capabilities of that facility.
Unmanned aerial systems (UAS) designer and manufacturer Hush Aerospace is investing nearly $14 million and creating 80 jobs to support its UAS assembly, manufacturing, testing and evaluation operations in Tupelo. The company’s move enhances the domestic drone market by providing cutting-edge UAS/robotic platforms and components that meet the rigorous standards of NASA and the military. In turn, this will enhance national security by onshoring UAS' design and production. In addition to government contract work, the company’s drones will be used in various commercial applications, including package delivery, agriculture, photography, cinematography, infrastructure inspections, mapping and surveying.
U.S.-based launch and space systems company Rocket Lab recently opened its Archimedes engine test facility for its new large rocket Neutron at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Hancock County. Rocket Lab is the launcher of Electron, the second most-frequently flown U.S. rocket. Rocket Lab’s much larger, reusable rocket Neutron will carry out national security missions and deliver multiple satellites to space.
Transatlantic cutting-edge aerospace company Skydweller Aero develops solar-powered aircraft solutions capable of achieving perpetual flight with heavy and powerful payload capacity. Skydweller is investing $55 million and creating 36 jobs to support its flight test and aircraft modification operations at Stennis International Airport, also in Hancock County. The company’s autonomous aircraft can remain aloft for three months and has a wingspan greater than that of a Boeing 747. It will also contribute to the nation’s defense as it helps ensure no illegal drugs cross the border into the country.
Mississippi’s Pro-Business Policies
The reasons so many premier automotive and aerospace companies rely on Mississippi are crystal clear: Mississippi’s pro-business polices, central location and dedication to workforce development make it an attractive destination for those seeking to leverage the state’s multitude of business advantages.
One of the most remarkable advantages for businesses is the state’s low operating costs. With one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the U.S. and affordable real estate, Mississippi provides a financial advantage that allows businesses to allocate resources more efficiently and invest in growth. Additionally, Mississippi’s leaders actively work to streamline regulatory processes and reduce bureaucratic red tape, making it easier for businesses to navigate legal requirements and get to work in record time. This commitment to fostering a welcoming business environment has earned Mississippi recognition as one of the top states for doing business on numerous occasions.
Another significant advantage is Mississippi’s prime geographic location, which offers convenient access to major markets across the U.S. The state’s extensive transportation infrastructure includes a robust network of congestion-free highways, railways and airports, facilitating the efficient movement of goods and materials and enabling businesses to reach customers efficiently and cost-effectively. The Mississippi River, Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway and Gulf of Mexico also provide access to bustling U.S. and international markets by way of 15 strategically located ports, including the Port of Gulfport and the Port of Pascagoula, both of which are deepwater ports located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast.
Perhaps the state’s greatest resource is its dedicated workforce. Mississippians show up and take pride in a job well done, attributes that are essential to the success of any business. The state’s educational institutions, including its universities, community colleges and vocational schools, collaborate with businesses to ensure their workers also possess the skills and training needed to thrive in today’s economy. Through initiatives such as workforce training grants, apprenticeship programs and customized training solutions, businesses in Mississippi can access resources to recruit, train and retain top talent. Additionally, the state’s favorable labor market conditions, including its competitive wages and affordability, make it an attractive destination for workers seeking employment opportunities and a high quality of life.
From globally renowned, industry-leading aerospace and automotive companies to mom-and-pop startups and established homegrown companies, Mississippi offers a compelling array of benefits for businesses seeking growth and opportunity. By capitalizing upon the state’s many competitive advantages, like its business-friendly environment, strategic location, skilled workforce and thriving automotive and aerospace industries, companies are inspired to unlock their full potential and achieve sustainable growth in domestic and international markets.
Site selectors should look no further than Mississippi for their next growth opportunity. Learn more at mississippi.org or contact the Locate team at 800-360-3323. T&ID
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