About us
Our Mission
Our Mission is to catalyze the innovation economy in Coastal Georgia.
The Creative Coast is here for the entrepreneurial, technology & creative community of the Savannah region. We build and support the creative economy in Savannah through education & social programs that connect and foster local innovation in both large and small companies.
Our Vision
Propelled by The Creative Coast, Savannah will be transformed into a vibrant hub for creative and innovative businesses, organizations, and individuals.
Leadership
Our Executive Committee
President - Jim Collins, Thomas & Hutton Engineering Co.
Vice President - Murem Sharpe, OXOS Medical
Secretary - Jennifer Bonnett, SEDA & Executive Director of the Creative Coast
Our History
The Creative Coast was founded in 1997 by the Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA), Chatham County and the City of Savannah to create/foster the creative technology and entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through our activities, we strive to make an economic impact on our community, our city, the region and our state, through the creation of high-wage, high-tech and creative jobs.
Our Board
In addition to the members of the Executive Committee, our Board is made of the following individuals:
Richard Bartolanzo, Bennett Thrasher
Bret Bell, City of Savannah
Jesse Dillon, Savannah Economic Development Authority
Kewaan Drayton, Red Eye Film Productions
Malissa MacKay, Georgia Department of Economic Development
Diana McKenzie, Hunter Maclean
John D. Northup III, Bouhan Falligant LLC
Murem Sharpe, TechCXO
Programs
Our programs focus on providing social and educational programs for entrepreneurs, innovators, and creatives. Most of our programs are low or no-cost to keep them accessible and equitable. Click to learn more about each program, or visit our programs page here.
Free Resources
We offer online resources to help innovators and companies seeking guidance, education, and opportunities. Check them out by clicking each below.
News & Community Updates
We cover local startup news and feature startup announcements, profiles, events and information as a free promotional service to the community of entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial organizations. We also keep a community calendar of upcoming events for startups and entrepreneurs. To promote your news with The Creative Coast, email kaitlin@thecreativecoast.org.