The Georgia Chamber of Commerce hosted a successful third annual Rural Prosperity Summit on Tuesday, Oct. 1 and Wednesday, Oct. 2 in Tifton.

This year’s event hosted nearly 500 business leaders, community advocates and state elected officials, along with notable speakers who discussed vital topics centered around Georgia’s rural communities. The two-day event offered conversations and networking opportunities for those who are passionate about sharing new ideas and making the necessary connections to improve rural prosperity.

Attendees heard from legislators who discussed the work that is being done in Washington to improve opportunities for Georgians in rural communities. U.S Congressman Buddy Carter stated, “Healthcare is critical to Georgia’s economic development and expanding the needs is a focus for rural Georgia.” U.S. Congressman Austin Scott discussed Georgia’s defense infrastructure by stating, “The economic impact should not be understated when it comes to military bases in Georgia and the importance they have on our economic growth.”

Topics such as prosperity within the arts community, education and manufacturing were discussed during the breakout sessions where attendees contributed to conversations that impact Georgia’s rural development. The upcoming 2020 Census was also discussed as notable speakers encouraged attendees and all Georgians to participate. Other topics included the opioid epidemic, defense industry, non-profit benefit to prosperity and more!

“In order to keep Georgia’s economy thriving, there must be a keen focus on the strength of our rural communities,” said Chris Clark, President and CEO of the Georgia Chamber. “By partnering with local chambers, business leaders and legislators, we can move the needle on bringing prosperity to these vital areas of our state.  The Georgia Chamber’s Rural Prosperity Summit in Tifton brought together these elements for the third year in a row with nearly 500 attendees from across the state to discuss and plan for the challenges we face and to create a rural renaissance in Georgia.”

The Georgia Chamber thanks the presenting sponsors: Georgia Community Foundation, Inc., Georgia EMC and Georgia Realtors. Along with investors, partners, speakers and attendees for making the third annual Rural Prosperity Summit a success.