BOARD OF DIRECTORS BRIEFING BOOK · Academy Award® qualifying festivals in the United States—is the area’s preeminent celebration of cinema. The Atlanta Film Festival is one

BOARD OF DIRECTORS BRIEFING

BOOK

Georgia Department of Economic Development

Georgia AquariumAtlanta, GA

February 17, 2016

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT BOARD BOOK

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Georgia Council for the Arts ......................................................................................... 1

Centers of Innovation .....................................................................................................2

Film, Music and Digital Entertainment ...................................................................... 4

Global Commerce ........................................................................................................... 6

International Relations .................................................................................................. 8

International Trade ........................................................................................................10

Marketing and Communications ................................................................................ 12

Tourism .............................................................................................................................14

Workforce ........................................................................................................................ 16

Georgia Department of Economic Development | 75 Fifth Street, NW | Suite 1200 | Atlanta, GA 30308 | +1.404.962.4000

GEORGIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS

DIVISION PROFILE Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) empowers the arts industry in Georgia and artists around the state to cultivate healthy, vibrant communities that are rich in civic participation, cultural experiences and economic prosperity. As a division of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Georgia Council for the Arts provides grant funding, programs and services statewide that support this vital industry, preserve our cultural heritage and create increased access to high quality arts experiences.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS 1. Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) awarded its new Vibrant Communities grant to 93 entities, who received $301,055 in funding. This grant was available to organizations in counties who did not receive an FY16 Project or Partner Grant. GCA received 109 applications requesting $353,766 from 65 counties across the state. Applicants included libraries, schools, arts centers, cities, historical societies, community theatres, Boys & Girls Clubs, etc. You can view the entire list at GAarts.org.

2. GeorgiaGeorgia, the joint exhibition between Georgia Council for the Arts and MOCA GA displayed 40 pieces from the state art collection alongside 33 pieces from MOCA GA’s permanent collection. The exhibit ran from August, 1 2015 through January, 2 2016. Georgia Council for the Art’s Georgia State Art Collection and MOCA GA’s permanent collection, showcased the state’s finest works from the 1960s, 70s and 80s. The exhibition had a total attendance of 3,019.

3. The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) recently awarded grants totaling $437,000 to 20 Georgia arts organizations. These grants will fund exciting projects such as a public art series in Atlanta to honor the heroines of civil and human rights movements to the Savannah Music Festival, which presents three weeks of the world’s best musicians. See the entire list of recipients at arts.gov.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIESThe deadline for Project and Partner Grant applications is February 10, 2016 and the deadline for the Arts Education Grant is March 16, 2016. If there are entities in your community interested in applying, please visit GAarts.org for guidelines and more information.

By the Numbers• The Vibrant Communities

grant was awarded to 93 entities in 62 counties, who received $301,055 in funding. GCA received 109 applications requesting $353,766 from 65 counties across the state. Awarded grants ranged from $280 to $5000.

• The NEA awarded grants totaling $437,000 to 20 arts organizations.

• Forty pieces from the Georgia State Art Collection were viewed by 3,019 visitors at MOCA GA.

• For further information or details – please contact: Karen Paty Georgia Council for the Arts Executive Director 404.962.4015 [email protected]

Contact Information

Judy Barber’s acrylic painting “Big Blend” is part of Georgia’s State Art Collection and was on display at MOCA GA during the partnered exhibition

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CENTERS OF INNOVATION

DIVISION PROFILE The Georgia Centers of Innovation provide the technical industry expertise, collaborative research, and partnerships to help the state’s strategic industries connect, compete and grow. Six individual Centers operate in the industries of Aerospace, Agribusiness, Energy Technology, Information Technology, Logistics, and Manufacturing. The Centers have primary offices in Atlanta, Macon, Savanah, and Tifton with activity statewide.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTSBold Bets: Commercializing the Cosmos hosted by The Atlantic Magazine: Center of Innovation for Aerospace director Steve Justice participated in a panel focused on the commercial space industry and Georgia’s opportunity alongside other industry heavyweights including Salvatore Bruno, President & CEO, United Launch Alliance, and Michael Paul, Mission Director and Space Systems Engineer on Penn State University’s Lunar Lion Team.

The Centers of Innovation for Aerospace and Agribusiness promote UAS at the Sunbelt Ag Expo: For the second consecutive year, the Centers of Innovation for Aerospace and Agribusiness joined with the Association of Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) to promote the potential agricultural uses of drones. This year, the exhibit also featured partners from Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, and Middle Georgia State University who all have either research, or educational programs to offer agriculturalists. Over the three-day event, the group was able to connect with several agriculture community members and provide resources and connections to help them with this new emerging technology

The Centers of Innovation collaborate with the University of North Georgia: Initiated by David Nuckolls, Global Account Manager – Marketing & Operations, and Edward Mienie, AVP for Economic and Community Development, UNG, and Mark Lytle, Vice Chancellor for Economic Development, Unisversity System of Georgia, a group of nearly 20 faculty and staff members gathered for a meeting in Gainesville with members of the Centers of Innovation to discuss areas for collaboration. Representatives from the Centers of Innovation for Aerospace, Agribusiness, Energy Technology, Information Technology, Manufacturing and

By the Numbers

650The number of clients collaborated with during Q2.

61 Active projects currently being worked across the state.

• For further information or details – please contact: David Nuckolls Centers of Innovation Manager, Marketing & Communications 404.962.4130 [email protected]

Contact Information

Director of the Center of Innovation for Aerospace Steve Justice talks about Georgia’s commercial space opportunities at the Bold Bets: Commercializing the Cosmos event hosted by the Atlantic Magazine.

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GDEcD CFO John Moffatt communicated to the group the various projects and activities the Centers frequently engage in as well as the expertise they can provide university partners.

Client Company Verdant Kitchen makes list of Oprah’s Favorite Things: Atlanta-based Verdant Kitchen (who also farms near Savannah), had their honey infused ginger syrup product listed on this year’s Oprah’s Favorite Things. The Center of Innovation for Agribusiness has supported this company since their inception dating all the way back to 2012 when Verdant Kitchen worked with the Center and the University of Georgia to identify the varieties of ginger that would work best in the Georgia soil. Through the Center’s expertise in small food processing, Verdant Kitchen has benefitted from various levels of assistance over the last few years.

“We wouldn’t be where we are without the help from the Centers of Innovation. They gave us the ability to generate early sales through markets, programs and

events, and have been a resource for connections and knowledge since.”

– Ross Harding, founder, Verdant Kitchen

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES• Georgia Innovation Summit on February 19, 2016: o 9:30-2pm | Georgia Power Auditorium (Ralph McGill)

o 10-11:30 Interactive discussion panel featuring the Centers of Innovation and moderated by Glenn Carver, VP of

Business Development, DeltaWing Technology Group.

• Center of Innovation for Manufacturing hosts Georgia’s International Reps March 11 o The Centers of Innovation will host the GDEcD International Reps for an Innovation Afternoon at

the Georgia Tech Manufacturing Institute.

• Centers of Innovation participating in the annual Confluence Rome conference April 14-15. o David Nuckolls and representatives from clients assisted by the Centers of Innovation are scheduled to participate

in the annual Confluence Rome Conference sponsored by the Greater Rome Chamber of Commerce.

• 8TH Annual Georgia Logistics Summit – April 19-20 o Hosted by our Center of Innovation for Logistics - Each year, 2,000 logistics professionals attend Georgia’s

unparalleled logistics event, to learn best practices and connect with colleagues and decision-makers in our

industry; making it one of the largest logistics events in the country.

CENTERS OF INNOVATION

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FILM, MUSIC AND DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT

DIVISION PROFILE The Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Office develops the state’s film, television, & commercial production industries by marketing the state to production companies; location scouting; and coordinating the filming needs of companies with other state agencies, local governments, and citizens. The office actively works to develop the industry’s infrastructure and workforce, certifies projects under the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act, and oversees the Camera Ready community program to engage municipalities throughout Georgia.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS1. The Georgia Film Academy is in its inaugural semester with classes being offered through Clayton State University, Columbus State University, and Gwinnett Technical College. The Georgia Film Academy currently offers a two-course certification program specifically designed to provide students with a basic level of on-set film production skills, knowledge and experience with film-industry standard organizational structure, professional equipment and on-set procedures.

2. The January 2016 Issue of Moviemaker Magazine named Atlanta the number one “Best Place to Live and Work as a Moviemaker,” and Savannah the number one best small city to live and work as a moviemaker!

3. The 2016 Sundance Film Festival had four Georgia-lensed films among the 16 competing in the U.S. Dramatic Competition category. A bidding war, resulting in the highest distribution deal ever to take place at the festival, ended with $17.5 million for “Birth of a Nation.” Three of the films shot largely in and near Savannah. The closing night film, “The Fundamentals of Caring,” also shot in and around Atlanta. The film division had a presence at the Meyer Gallery in Park City, Utah during the first five days of the festival.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES• The Georgia film community will celebrate Film Day in the north wing of the

Capitol on February 22nd beginning at 9:00 AM. We hope you can join us!

By the NumbersGeorgia is currently hosting: 14 feature films

13 television series

3 television pilots

Notable projects include Marvel’s “Guardians of the Galaxy 2,” “Baby Driver” to be directed by Edgar Wright, and the Dreamworks’ feature “Thank You for Your Service.”

• For further information or details – please contact: Lee Thomas Georgia Film, Music and Digital Entertainment Deputy Commissioner 404.962.4048 [email protected]

Contact Information

The Georgia-filmed “Dirty Grandpa” starring Robert De Niro, Zac Efron and Julianne Hough opened in theaters on January 22, 2016.

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• The film office sponsors and participates in numerous local film festivals, and typically has passes available if you would like to attend a screening. Here is a list of upcoming festivals.

Atlanta Film Festival (April 1 - 10, 2016) - Now in its fourth decade, the Atlanta Film Festival—one of only two dozen Academy Award® qualifying festivals in the United States—is the area’s preeminent celebration of cinema. The Atlanta Film Festival is one of the largest and longest-running festivals in the country, welcoming an audience of more than 25,000 to discover 150-plus new independent, international, animated, documentary and short films selected from 1,800-plus submissions from all over the world.

The Milledgeville Film Festival (April 14 - 17, 2016) is three days of movie magic in heart of Downtown Milledgeville. Friday evening begins with a red carpet gala held in historic Magnolia ballroom, leading to a weekend of screenings, workshops, and a closing awards ceremony.

Upcoming release dates for Georgia-filmed productions:

• The mid-season premiere of “The Walking Dead” returns on February 14.• “Triple 9” the cast includes Kate Winslet, Gal Godot, Norman Reedus, Anthony Mackie, Woody Harrelson, Aaron Paul

and Casey Affleck – in theaters February 26, 2016.• “The Boss” starring Melissa McCarthy – in theaters April 8, 2016.• “Barber Shop: The Next Cut” starring Ice Cube and Cedric the Entertainer - in theaters April 15, 2016.

FILM, MUSIC AND DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT

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GLOBAL COMMERCE

DIVISION PROFILE For qualified companies – foreign or domestic – looking to expand or open a Georgia

location, the Global Commerce division of the GDEcD offers many services at no cost.

Among the greatest resources the department offers is business intelligence and assistance

provided by Georgia project managers and long-time industry experts. Their expertise

comes from years spent living and working in Georgia’s communities, living and doing

business around the world, and helping thousands of companies launch and manage

successful enterprises in Georgia.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS1. Georgia Named #1 State for Business for the 3rd Consecutive Year - Each November, Site

Selection releases rankings for the top states in which to do business. Georgia has been

ranked among the top 10 states in Site Selection’s business climate rankings throughout

the last decade.

2. From October to December 2015, there were eleven project announcements. Those

projects alone accounted for more than 2,700 jobs and $353 million investment. These

announcements include companies such as: Fokker Technologies (Clayton), Alcon (Fulton),

ADP (Richmond), Ag-Pro (Thomas), Linzer Products Corp. (Candler), Aspen Aerogels

(Bulloch), Eurofins/Emory University (DeKalb), Constellium (Bartow), InComm (Fulton/

Gwinnett), and Jindal Films (Troup).

3. Team members traveled to a number of trade shows, including: National FDI Aerospace

Expo, NBAA Annual Conference, Specialty Equipment Marketing Association (SEMA) Show,

Southern Automotive Conference, FABTECH, Health IT Leadership Conference, Georgia BIO

Innovation Summit, Money 20/20, Code Mobile, CoreNet, Area Development Consultants

Forum and SEUS Japan.

By the Numbers• Total locations for the

quarter (including those not announced): 80 projects resulting in 3,764 jobs created and $1.33 billion investment.

• For the fiscal year to date (July 2015 – December 2015), the team has located 143 projects that have yielded 8,853 jobs and $1.99 billion investment

• For further information or details – please contact: Tom Croteau Global Commerce Deputy Commissioner 404.962.4013 [email protected]

Contact Information

Governor Deal participated in a ribbon cutting at UK-based Sage’s new North American headquarters and an innovation hub in Atlanta.

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UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES• Governor Nathan Deal will declare the third week in February as Georgia Small Business Week. Along with local events

promoting small businesses throughout the state, we also honor a select few as the year’s Small Business Rock Stars. These

are outstanding, unique and impactful small businesses in the state of Georgia. Whether they’ve innovated a new product

or grown a niche segment of the marketplace, these small businesses showcase why Georgia is the best state for small

business. GDEcD will also partner with GEDA to announce the 2016 Small Business Rock Stars at a luncheon on February

15 in Atlanta.

• Georgia’s International Representatives will be visiting the state from March 6 – 12. During this trip, the group will hold

internal and external meetings, including an overnight trip to Northwest Georgia. They will also take part in International

Day at the Capitol on March 8.

• International Investment Director Nico Wijnberg will accompany the Metro Atlanta Chamber and Georgia Power on a

marketing mission to Turkey the 3rd week of March. During the trip, they will meet with active and new prospects.

GLOBAL COMMERCE

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INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

DIVISION PROFILE Governor Deal and the State of Georgia are committed to growing Georgia’s reputation as a welcoming and vibrant state for international business and tourists. The International Relations division is dedicated to strategically cultivating and expanding Georgia’s international relationships. The office oversees communications and activities with foreign governments and is the state’s liaison to members of the Consular Corps. The division also manages the Governor’s trade and investment missions, welcomes international delegations and dignitaries and coordinates international efforts among state departments and agencies.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTSGovernor’s Mission DubaiIn November, Governor Deal led a delegation to the United Arab Emirates for company meetings at the Dubai Airshow. The show is one of the largest and most successful air shows in the world. Aerospace is a strategic and important industry for our state, and more than 500 aerospace companies reap the benefits of a business climate that provides access to the latest aerospace technologies and 86,000 employees rated most productive in the nation. Georgia’s aerospace exports grew to $7.8 billion in 2013, an increase of 17% from 2012. Georgia currently hosts business units from some of the giants of the air and space industry, including Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Gulfstream, Northrop Grumman, and Pratt & Whitney. Georgia is also home to businesses specifically involved in the satellite industry, including EMS Technologies (now part of Honeywell), SpaceWorks Engineering, and Masten Space Systems. There are at least five UAE facilities operating in Georgia, at least three of which are manufacturing facilities.

Ambassadors Visit the Empire State of the SouthSouth African AmbassadorHis Excellency Mninwa J. Mahlangu, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the United States visited Georgia in October to give a lecture on the 60th Anniversary of the South African Freedom Charter at Georgia State University. Ambassador Mahlangu also met with Governor Deal, Coca-Cola executives, the Metro Atlanta Chamber, Fulton County Commissioner, Dr. John Eaves, the Atlanta City Council President and city council members, members of the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council and GDEcD staff.

By the NumbersInternational Presence - Highlights• Atlanta is home to 29

Bi-National Chambers of Commerce

Did you know? • Georgia’s Consular Corps

welcomed 4 new members: – Takashi Shinozuka, newly

arrived Consul General of Japan

– James Rigsby, new Honorary Consul of Bulgaria

– Ryan Kurtz, new Honorary Consul of Italy

– Cemil Teber, new Honorary Consul of Tanzania

Other Consular Corps news: Francisco Riofrio, former Consul General of Ecuador, has completed his tenure in Atlanta and returned to Quito. Till his replacement arrives, Ms. Cristina Velásquez will serve as interim Head of Mission.

• For further information or details – please contact: Ember Bishop International Relations Deputy Commissioner – International Relations 404.863.7312 [email protected]

Contact Information

Governor Deal had the opportunity to meet with His Excellency Mninwa J. Mahlangu, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the United States when he visited Georgia in October.

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In 2014, Georgia exports to South Africa totaled $152 million. South Africa is currently the 47th largest export market for Georgia. Top exports from Georgia to South Africa include parts and accessories for special purpose motor vehicles, motor vehicles, internal combustion piston engines and insecticides. Georgia leads the nation in the export of the following goods to South Africa: passenger motor vehicles, wood pulp, and poultry. In 2014, Georgia’s imports from South Africa totaled $403 million. South Africa ranks 26th among Georgia’s top importer nations. Top imports from South Africa include motor vehicles designed to transport people, sugars, mineral substances, sorting machinery, pulley tackle and hoists, articles of iron or steel sculptures and wines. French AmbassadorThe French Ambassador to the U.S., Mr. Gérard Araud visited Atlanta on November 27-28. After a visit with Governor Deal, he spoke at the Opening Ceremony of France-Atlanta 2015 and served as the keynote speaker for the French-American Chamber’s 10th annual Crystal Peach Awards. The Crystal Peach Awards have historically recognized the most significant inbound and outbound investments to and from France and the Southeastern USA. 2015 marked the sixth year of France-Atlanta, a series of events in science, culture, business, and humanitarian activities. Each year roughly 3500 people participate in various events. Outcomes include an MOU signed between Paris airports and the City of Atlanta to develop the two airport zones, cooperation between Georgia Tech and CNRS (French national center for research), strengthening of the sister-city relationship between Atlanta and Toulouse, and residencies of several internationally-recognized artists.

First Lady - Sweet as a PeachFirst Lady Sandra Deal hosted an afternoon Tea & Tour for the wives of Porsche executives at the Governor’s Mansion as a way of saying thank you for Porsche’s gracious hospitality during the Governor’s Mission to Germany in August. Mrs. Deal also welcomed Consular Spouses to the Governor’s Mansion during Christmas tours. The spouses enjoyed an afternoon pot-luck luncheon featuring specialty dishes that represented their country. A favorite annual tradition by all!

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIESVIP Tour • March 2nd-4th Each spring, our division sponsors the VIP Tour. This event is an opportunity for the members of the Consular Corps to draw closer ties with their colleagues, as well as to see and experience a different region of Georgia. In addition, the tour affords the host region a unique chance to promote its communities to the Corps. The VIP Tour is designed to provide the senior leadership of the State’s international diplomatic and trade communities with this experience and first-hand knowledge. This year’s tour will head to the coastal towns of Brunswick, Jekyll and Ossabaw Islands and end in Savannah.

International Day at the Capitol • March 8th • 7:30 am-9:00 amGrab-and-Go breakfast featuring Georgia Grown products from around the state will be served in Room 216. We are inviting legislators to meet the state’s international economic development representatives located in 11 global markets, the state’s international leadership and members of the Georgia Consular Corps and binational chambers of commerce. Join us!

Protocol Matters • Helpful TipsGift GivingFor your international visitors or hosts, consider giving a business gift that is made in Georgia, or at least made in the U.S. Food products or handiwork that represents your home is always well-received, and small pieces of art like sculptures, scarves, photographs or small paintings are unique ways to share your culture. When selecting a gift, keep in mind travel restrictions (does someone have to pack that large jar of homemade preserves in carryon luggage? Pack a large item in a suitcase?); cultural requirements (avoid giving leather goods to a visitor from India); and other potential issues (ethics legislation limits gifts to employees of the State of Georgia to a $25 value; in some Latin American countries an expensive gift might be seen as an attempt at bribery).

INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

DIVISION PROFILE GDEcD’s nationally recognized International Trade Division works to bolster Georgia

exports and brand the state as a competitive source of quality products and services.

The division includes International Representatives located in 11 strategic global markets,

and assists Georgia companies to expand their sales worldwide. The Trade division

provides Georgia businesses with the Global Insight and Global Connections they need to

successfully diversify their international customer base. The division also interfaces with

local, state and federal partners to increase services for Georgia exporters and has been

recognized as a national model for collaboration.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTSGDEcD Celebrates 10 Years Supporting Exporters at MEDICA TradeshowNovember 16-19. Düsseldorf, GermanyEvent managers: Kathy Oxford, Priya Verma and Mike HarlingThe GDEcD Trade Team supported 15 Georgia exporters exhibiting at MEDICA 2015, the world’s largest event for medical devices and technologies. The show continues to connect Georgia’s innovative healthcare companies with global customers from around the world. Five Georgia companies exhibited in the State of Georgia booth, with an additional 10 companies exhibiting on their own or with their European distributors. More than 90 trade leads were generated at the show, which could result in more than one million dollars in new business for Georgia firms. Members of the GDEcD Global Commerce team and the Metro Atlanta Chamber also supported the show for FDI leads.

Small Business Exporters Accelerate Sales at the Dubai AirshowNovember 8-12. Dubai, United Arab EmiratesEvent managers: Taube Ponce, Kathy OxfordGeorgia’s thriving aerospace sector was front and center at the Dubai Airshow, where small business exporters and global firms alike sought out new international customers. The Georgia booth featured four small business exporters seeking new contracts in the Middle East and beyond, while two other Georgia businesses exhibited on their own. Large companies with a significant Georgia presence, such as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and Pratt & Whitney also exhibited in Dubai, showcasing the diversity of Georgia’s aerospace assets.

By the Numbers

479 Number of Georgia exporters receiving customized trade assistance during FY16. These export requests cover 33 international markets.

159 Export deals supported, totaling nearly $12 million in the first half of the fiscal year.

71 Percentage of total trade deals supported by Georgia’s International Representatives in 11 strategic markets.

• For further information or details – please contact: Mary Waters International Trade Deputy Commissioner International Trade 404.962.4120 [email protected]

Contact Information

In November, Governor Deal led a delegation to the Dubai Airshow along with representatives from GDEcD and industry partners.

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

GDEcD Hosts Agricultural Delegation from Shenzhen, ChinaNovember 19. Atlanta, GeorgiaEvent managers: Shehzin Jafar, Priya VermaA group of leading Chinese agricultural businesses and representatives from the Shenzhen Fruit Association traveled to Georgia to learn more about the state’s agribusiness sector and to explore future trade opportunities. This delegation was a direct follow up from Commissioner Carr’s trip to China and Japan in August of 2015. The group visited the Atlanta State Farmer’s Market and was briefed by representatives of the Georgia Tech Food Processing Technology division, prior to meeting with the Georgia Blueberry Growers Association and Georgia-based produce and seafood exporters. While this was the delegation’s initial introduction to Georgia’s agricultural assets, the one-on-one meetings showed significant opportunities for future export sales to China.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIESPlease join us in welcoming our International Representatives to Georgia!Go Global Reception March 8, 2016Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Located in 11 strategic international markets, Georgia’s representatives keep our state globally competitive by helping brand the state a leading location for international investment, an outstanding source for quality products and services and a key destination for tourism. Please join us in supporting our international reps’ economic development efforts, and celebrating the important work they do. This event will also showcase the 3rd annual GLOBE Awards, recognizing small business exporters that have successfully entered at least one new international market in the previous year.

The International Trade Division is also actively recruiting for a number of export events in the next three months, across a range of industries. These tradeshows and trade missions will open sales opportunities in Mexico, China, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Chile, and South Africa.

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MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

DIVISION PROFILE The Marketing & Communications division manages the agency’s reputation and promotes Georgia’s business, tourism, arts and entertainment assets throughout the state, U.S. and world. Through the integration of print, digital, social media, outdoor and broadcast channels, the division supports the department’s eight operating divisions. This includes new advertising campaigns, the creation of sales and marketing materials, digital advertising, all internal and external communications, media outreach, more than a dozen social media platforms across multiple divisions and the growth of the department’s eleven targeted websites.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS1. The 2016 Georgia Travel Guide was released on January 26 marking the beginning of the Year of Georgia Music. Involving almost a year of planning, the 185-page vacation planning tool features country superstar and Leesburg, Ga., native Luke Bryan on the cover. The guide is a joint effort between Tourism, Marketing & Communications and Atlanta Magazine Custom Media.

2. Roam, the official 2016 Georgia Group Tour Planner was introduced in December. This guide was designed for group travel planners and trade media. It offers detailed information about opportunities for groups as well as resources to plan a visit.

3. Check out the latest video from the Marketing team showcasing the brand new Georgia BioScience Training Center where Baxalta executives detail the strategic advantage they gain with the new facility. The training center features custom-made technology that simulates Baxalta’s biomanufacturing processes such as centrifugation, chromatography, nanofiltration and aseptic filling.

4. Georgia was again selected as the No. 1 State for Business in the U.S. by Site Selection magazine. In addition to supporting editorial and being showcased on the cover, the magazine featured a multi-page advertising collaboration between the Georgia Allies and GDEcD.

5. Marketing was a critical contributor behind the Governor’s November Dubai Mission, supporting the efforts of three different divisions including Global Commerce, International Relations and International Trade. Marketing provided the

By the NumbersGDEcD’s Communications team distributed 17 press releases to media during second quarter. To review all of GDEcD’s press release – visit www.georgia.org/newsroom

Georgia.org11% increase in visits11% increase in pageviews10% increase in organic traffic17% increase in traffic from

mobile devices

ExploreGeorgia.org25% increase in visits20% increase in pageviews10% decrease in bounce rate42% increase in organic traffic30% increase from mobile

devices

Blog.ExploreGeorgia.org32% increase in visits

TourGeorgiaFilm.com39% increase in visit duration9% decrease in bounce rate305% increase in traffic from

Twitter6% increase in pages per visit38% decrease in visits

• For further information or details – please contact: Greg Torre Marketing & Communications Deputy Commissioner 404.962.4173 [email protected]

Contact Information

We Are Georgia: The people behind popular destinations around the state showcase why we love Georgia in a series of new tourism videos. Watch now.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgKXZWpHGh8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PgKXZWpHGh8


briefing book, pocket itineraries, tradeshow graphics/booth build-out and exhibitor directory as well as coordinated overall marketing efforts/opportunities at the show, including overhead signage. Additionally, marketing was part of the advance team that helps make logistics seamless and maximize in-market impact.

6. The Communications team kicked off the Year of Georgia Music on GPB’s On Second Thought with Lisa Love on January 28. Host Celeste Headlee kicked off the year-long jam session with a listen back to her conversation with Lisa Love, music marketing director for the GDEcD, and Maxwell George, managing editor of the Oxford American, which dedicated a recent issue of the magazine to Georgia music and musicians. Click here to listen.

7. Glen Sarvady has joined the popular Georgia Explorers program as the new Music Explorer. Glen will provide insider tips, regular blog posts and articles. Follow the Georgia Explorers as they seek out the best things to see and do across the state and report back on their adventures.

8. COI Marketing and Communications Coordinator Daniel Youmans has stepped into a new role as Account Manager on GDEcD’s Marketing and Communications team.

9. Jamal Lewis joined the Marketing team in early January as the new Marketing Services Specialist.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES• Nine new We are Georgia tourism videos will be featured at the new Airport Visitor Information Center representing each of Georgia’s nine tourism regions. Click here to view the Metro Atlanta version, showcasing the Georgia Aquarium.

• Georgia music enthusiasts will have plenty to sing about with the upcoming launch of the new Georgia Music section located at ExploreGeorgia.org/Music.

• Year of Georgia Music road trip kicks off on February 8 and 9 in Birmingham! Communications Specialist Emily Murray and Director of Music Marketing Lisa Love will hit the road traveling to Georgia’s top drive markets to meet with media. Print, radio and television in Birmingham, Greenville, Chattanooga and Nashville will be targeted.

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS

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TOURISM

DIVISION PROFILE Georgia Tourism, through its network of regional and international representatives, Atlanta office, and 11 visitor information centers, assists the state’s communities and attractions in drawing potential travelers to their areas, and helps individual visitors and groups discover Georgia’s unique vacation options. The Division also helps communities develop well-planned and sustainable tourism products.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS 1. Kevin Langston and Tracy Vaughan promoted the state’s offerings at Travel South USA’s 4th International Showcase in Charlotte, North Carolina from November 30 -December 3, 2015. More than 75 qualified international tour operators from more than 15 countries around the globe attended. The Georgia Tourism team had individual appointments with these tour operators to discuss Georgia’s travel destinations and opportunities. Atlanta will host Travel South USA’s 5th International Showcase in 2016.

2. Georgia Tourism had representatives participate in Travel South’s Receptive Tour Operator Mission and Media Blitz in New York from October 6-8, 2015.

3. Georgia Tourism attended the World Travel Market in London from November 2-5, 2015. The World Travel Market is the leading global event for the travel industry to meet industry professionals and conduct business deals.

4. The regional Tourism Project Managers and the Visitor Information Center Managers convened in early November at the bi-annual Managers’ Meeting. The session provided opportunities to review procedures, policies and upcoming projects as a team.

5. While several of our Visitor Information Centers (VIC) are under renovation, our Visitor Information Specialists are out exploring the state so they will be able to share first-person experiences with travelers when centers re-open

By the Numbers• 2015 statewide hotel

revenues are up 10 percent over 2014

• 2015 statewide hotel occupancy is up 3.1 percent over 2014

• 2015 statewide hotel average daily rate (ADR) is up 6.1 percent over 2014

• For further information or details – please contact: Kevin Langston Georgia Tourism Deputy Commissioner 404.962.4082 [email protected]

Contact Information

Visitor Information Center Specialists from the Columbus, Ringgold and West Point Visitor Information Centers tour the National Historic Site in Warm Springs

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UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES• In February, Visitor Information Specialists from 11 of our State Visitor Information Centers are meeting in Statesboro

February 15 - 17 for training, Georgia Tourism team updates, and to participate in site visits in the Magnolia Midlands travel region.

• Kevin Langston and Stella Xu will travel on a sales mission with a Travel South delegation to China from Feb. 29 – March 4.

• Kevin Langston, Lacey Cameron, Emily Murray and Daniel Skahen will represent Georgia Tourism at the Travel South Domestic Showcase in Winston-Salem, North Carolina March 5 – 9, 2016. This is a great opportunity to present Georgia itineraries and story ideas to group travel operators as well as travel media.

• Brittney Gray and our Visitor Information Center Managers will meet with Welcome Center staff from the region at the annual Southeast Travel Counselors Alliance in Spartanburg, SC March 20-22.

• GDEcD Tourism Division will host the annual Regional Visitor Information Center Workshop held March 28 - 30 at Lake Lanier Islands.

• Kevin Langston and Tracy Vaughan will represent Georgia Tourism at the World Travel Market in Sao Paulo, Brazil March 27 - April 1.

• The Sylvania Visitor Information Center will host their annual Georgia on My Mind Day on April 22.

TOURISM

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Workforce Development

WORKFORCE

DIVISION PROFILE The Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Workforce Division administers the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) under the leadership of the State Workforce Development Board with the ultimate goal of improving the quality and marketability of Georgia’s workforce to meet the needs of business.

QUARTERLY DIVISION HIGHLIGHTS Governor Deal Launches Georgia WorkSmart On October 26, 2015 Governor Deal, Commissioner Carr, Deputy Commissioner Hames and the Workforce team launched Georgia WorkSmart, the state’s work-based learning initiative, at King’s Hawaiian in Flowery Branch.

2015 HDCI Meetings On October 21, 2015, the HDCI team hosted the 3rd meeting of 2015 at Albany State University. On December 14, 2015, the final HDCI meeting of the year was held at Savannah Technical College.

Soldier For Life Transition Summit From November 4-6, Operation: Workforce joined with the Greater Columbus Georgia Chamber of Commerce and the Soldier for Life Transition Assistance Program to host the Soldier for Life Transition Summit at Ft. Benning.

Georgia Workforce Leaders Participate in Aspen Institute’s Sector Strategies SummitTwo Workforce Division representatives were selected to participate in the Aspen Institute’s Sector Strategies Train the Trainer Summit from December 2-4 in Northern Virginia. Georgia’s Workforce representatives received training that will enable them to provide technical assistance to local area staff on utilizing sector strategies. Georgia’s workforce applications were chosen to fill two of the 15 coveted training slots.

State Workforce Development Board MeetingOn November 19, 2015, the State Workforce Development Board held its quarterly board meeting in Clarkston featuring DeKalb Workforce.

By the NumbersGeorgia WorkSmart received $3MM American Apprenticeship Initiative GrantThe U.S. Department of Labor awarded GDEcD a nearly $3MM grant to support apprenticeships in Georgia. As part of this grant, Georgia WorkSmart will partner with 30 employers, nearly 400 apprentices, and seven technical colleges to create a sustainable workforce to meet immediate business needs.

Veteran Employment Event Attracts Large Number of Military PersonnelMore than 500 transitioning service members and 55 employers attended the Soldier for Life Transition Summit from November 4-6 at Ft. Benning. This event resulted in 219 interviews and 18 immediate hires of transitioning service members.

WFD Serves More Than 12,000 During second quarterDuring GDEcD’s second quarter (October 1, 2015-December 31, 2015), there were 12,277 active participants statewide. Among those, 3,045 were newly enrolled job seekers, who began their training to enter Georgia’s workforce.

• For further information or details – please contact: Ben Hames Workforce Deputy Commissioner 404.962.4005 [email protected]

Contact Information

Governor Deal launched Georgia WorkSmart on October 26, 2015 at King’s Hawaiian in Flowery Branch.

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UPCOMING EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES• HDCI AssessmentAll Georgia-based companies are encouraged to complete the HDCI Assessment to help Georgia further gauge workforce needs. This assessment is available online at Georgia.org/WorkforceAssessment.

• Upcoming State Workforce Development Board MeetingThe next State Workforce Development Board (SWDB) meeting will be held on February 25, 2016 in Columbus, featuring Lower Chattahoochee and Middle Flint Workforce Development Areas.

WORKFORCE

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS BRIEFING BOOK · Academy Award® qualifying festivals in the United States—is the area’s preeminent celebration of cinema. The Atlanta Film Festival is one

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