Golden Isles Takes Center State in Atlanta with Georgia's Economic Development Leaders

The Golden Isles Development Authority (GIDA) recently headed to Atlanta to meet with project managers from the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), Georgia Power, Electric Cities of Georgia, and Georgia EMC. Our mission? To showcase why the Golden Isles is one of the most strategic, development-ready regions in the state for large industry investment.

Our team shared the region's story, highlighting the unique combination of coastal quality of life and industry-ready infrastructure. Anchored by Interstate 95—Georgia's main artery for logistics—our region boasts direct access to two ports (Colonel's Island and Mayors Point Terminal), an abundant and skilled workforce, and, most importantly, three GRAD-certified industrial sites ready for immediate development.

Three GRAD Certified Sites. Endless Potential.

We spotlighted the Golden Isles' certified sites:

  • Tradewinds Technology Park (Exit 42): Positioned for advanced manufacturing and logistics, with room to grow and access to I-95.

  • Georgia Breakbulk Logistics Park (Exit 29): A premier location for warehousing and heavy industry, offering rail access and proximity to the Port of Brunswick.

  • Innovation Isles Aerospace Park (near Brunswick-Glynn County Airport): Tailored for aviation and aerospace industry growth with direct runway access and robust infrastructure.

Each of these sites has achieved Georgia Ready for Accelerated Development (GRAD) status—signaling to companies and consultants that due diligence is complete, infrastructure is in place, and investment timelines can be shortened.

Turning Insight Into Strategy

In a twist from traditional presentations, we broke into working sessions and invited our colleagues to dive deeper. Each project manager was given a folder with detailed information on the sites and challenged to help us develop a business development strategy based on their unique expertise and experience.

This interactive approach sparked thoughtful discussion, innovative ideas, and valuable feedback we'll carry into our next phase of recruitment and site readiness planning.

Engaging, Energizing, and Full of Opportunity

The session was not only productive—it was fun. Our group was fully engaged, and the level of collaboration reinforced why partnerships with statewide allies are essential to our region's success.

As we continue to position the Golden Isles as a top-tier location for large-scale industrial projects, we're thankful for the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with those leading Georgia's economic development efforts. Together, we're building a future of growth, opportunity, and prosperity for our community