The Georgia State Legislature's Senate Committee on Economic Development & Tourism convened on February 19, 2025, to discuss the growth and future of the fintech industry in the state. The meeting featured presentations from key industry leaders who highlighted the importance of fintech to Georgia's economy and the need for continued workforce development.

John Perry, CEO of Bluefin, opened the discussions by emphasizing the company's role in payment security and its significant presence in Atlanta, often referred to as "Transaction Alley." He noted that Bluefin operates in 60 countries and is a leader in encryption and tokenization solutions, which are crucial for protecting sensitive data in today's digital commerce landscape. Perry praised Georgia's fintech ecosystem for its skilled workforce and collaboration with local universities, which he believes are vital for driving innovation in payment security.

Chris Wasserman, founder of Wasserman Talent Solutions, followed with insights on workforce development. He pointed out that over 70% of all transactions in the U.S. are processed through companies based in Georgia. Wasserman stressed the importance of maintaining a strong talent pool through education and training, particularly in technical fields that do not necessarily require a four-year degree. He advocated for government and private sector partnerships to attract and retain talent, especially in the face of global competition.

Paulette Rowe, CEO of Stacks, shared her perspective on the advantages of operating in Georgia. She highlighted the state's high concentration of fintech companies and the availability of a talented workforce. Rowe mentioned that Stacks, which has reached a billion-dollar valuation, is increasingly using Georgia as a hub for its operations. She also noted the success of the Georgia Fintech Academy, which has produced 7,000 fintech-ready workers since its inception in 2017, and expressed interest in potentially relocating Stacks' headquarters to Georgia due to the supportive business environment.

The meeting underscored the significance of the fintech sector to Georgia's economy and the collaborative efforts needed to ensure its continued growth. The discussions revealed a strong commitment from industry leaders to invest in workforce development and to leverage Georgia's resources to maintain its status as a fintech powerhouse. As the state moves forward, the emphasis on education, talent retention, and innovation will be crucial in navigating the evolving landscape of financial technology.