The board shall also have the following duties and powers:

(1) To conduct and make such surveys and investigations, to gather and compile such information, and to make and prepare such reports, plans, and maps as may be necessary or proper effectually to discharge the duties and exercise the powers of the board enumerated in this article;

(2) To engage in and promote and encourage research designed to further new and more extensive uses of the agricultural and natural resources or other products or resources of the state and designed to develop new products and industrial processes;

(3) To study trends and developments in business, industry, and agriculture in the state and analyze such trends and developments and the reasons therefor; to study costs and other factors underlying the successful operation of businesses and industries in the state; and to make recommendations regarding circumstances promoting or hampering industrial or agricultural development;

(4) To collect, compile, and publish periodically a census of business and industry in the state with the cooperation of other agencies, and to analyze and publish information relating to current conditions of business, industry, and agriculture in the state;

(5) To compile, publish, and make available for distribution to interested persons the results of any and all studies, surveys, and investigations; any and all information gathered; and any and all reports made and plans and maps prepared;

(6) To coordinate any of its activities, efforts, or functions with those of any other agency or agencies of the federal government, this state, other states, and local governments having duties, powers, or functions similar to those of the board, and to cooperate, counsel, and advise with such agencies;

(7) To cooperate, counsel, and advise with and to encourage and promote coordination in the efforts of other organizations or groups within the state, public or private, engaged in publicizing the advantages, attractions, or resources of the state;

(8) To cooperate, counsel, and advise with municipal, county, regional, or other local planning agencies in the state for the purpose of promoting coordination between the state and localities as to plans, policies, development of commerce, industry, or agriculture, publicity, and other related activities and functions;

(9) To receive gifts, donations, or contributions from any person, firm, or corporation in furtherance of the services, purposes, duties, responsibilities, or functions vested in the board;

(10) To authorize the Department of Industry, Trade, and Tourism in accordance with all applicable state laws to contract and make cooperative agreements, contracts, and rental agreements with the United States government; any county, municipality, or local government or any combination thereof; any public or private corporation or firm; any persons whatsoever; or any public authority, agency, commission, or institution, including agencies of state government for any of the services, purposes, duties, responsibilities, or functions vested in the board; and

(11) To authorize the Department of Industry, Trade, and Tourism to participate with public and private groups, organizations, and businesses in joint advertising and promotional projects that promote the economic and tourist development of the State of Georgia and make efficient use of state appropriated advertising and promotional funds.