Commentary by Randy Davidson, CEO and founder of Georgia Entertainment
Last week in Savannah, I had the opportunity to engage in three important gatherings that together show how entertainment, tourism and policy are shaping Georgia’s future. Being there recharged me, with friends and colleagues rallying around jobs, economic development and the vital role of the creative industries. Pictures || Reel
The Governor’s Tourism Conference, the Senate Study Committee on Tourism and the Savannah Film Alliance meeting each highlighted different angles, yet they all pointed to the same theme: growth fueled by creative energy and the need for intentional investment.
The Governor’s Tourism Conference drew leaders from across the state to the newly expanded Savannah Convention Center, where record-breaking numbers underscored tourism’s role in our economy. Entertainment was recognized as a key part of that success, with film, music, gaming and live events driving development, visitation and investment.
The Senate Study Committee meeting added another layer, with discussion centered on how Georgia can rise to the top of national tourism rankings. Savannah served as a backdrop to examine what is working along the coast and what tools are needed to replicate that success across regions. The clear message was that marketing investment is critical if Georgia is to compete and continue its climb in the visitor economy.
At the Savannah Film Alliance meeting, the conversation turned to the evolving nature of entertainment production. Data shared by IATSE confirmed that content demand is alive and growing, but the ways it is produced and financed are shifting. For Georgia, that means new opportunity across indie film, streaming, commercial production, games and festivals.
Savannah’s own creative initiatives, including the planned Outta the Park Music Festival, reflect how the coast is embracing this diversification and connecting it with the state’s incentive framework.
The cinematic coast is a hub for tourism and conventions, and a proving ground for new creative projects and policy strategies that can be scaled statewide. The work happening here is shaping how Georgia competes nationally and internationally.
Governor’s Tourism Conference: Pictures || Reel
Savannah Film Alliance Meeting: Commentary || Pictures || Reel
Senate Study Committee on Tourism: Short Reel
