Golden Isles Development Authority

09/01/2026

Downtown Brunswick has been named the 2026 Downtown of the Year! 🎉

This incredible recognition from the Georgia Downtown Association - est. 1999 celebrates the energy, collaboration and community spirit that make Downtown Brunswick such a special place to live, work and visit.

Congratulations to the Downtown Brunswick community and everyone who continues to invest in, support and champion our downtown. This honor is a reflection of what we can accomplish when our community comes together!

Read more on the recognition here: https://goldenislesdev.com/downtown-brunswick-2026-downtown-of-the-year/

08/28/2026

A strong community builds a strong future.

As we look back on the past year, we’re proud of the progress happening across the Golden Isles — and even more proud of the people and partnerships behind it.

This year brought $70 million in new investment, 91 new jobs, five local business expansions and continued growth in workforce development. Through initiatives like Keep Glynn Running, GIDA connected with approximately 6,000 educators, students, parents and community members to help strengthen career pathways right here at home.

From supporting local businesses to preparing the next generation of talent and advancing opportunities for future investment, these accomplishments reflect what’s possible when our community works together.

We’re grateful to The Brunswick News and to everyone helping make the Golden Isles a great place to live, work and grow. We’re excited for what’s ahead!

The Golden Isles Development Authority says Fiscal Year 2026 was a year of building for the future, combining new investment with workforce development, business expansion and site readiness to position

08/25/2026

Building a strong workforce takes all of us.

At the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce’s State of the Workforce & Education Luncheon, community leaders discussed the partnerships and pathways shaping the future of talent in the Golden Isles.

GIDA President & CEO Ryan Moore also joined Dr. Ande Noktes of the Center for Entrepreneurship to highlight Elevate Glynn, GIDA’s $1 million investment supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs through increased access to capital, mentorship and resources.

By connecting education, entrepreneurship and economic development, we can strengthen our workforce, support business growth and create more opportunities for people to build their careers here.

Learn more at ElevateGlynn.com.

08/21/2026

The Golden Isles Development Authority was proud to participate in Georgia Power Economic Development’s CREATE Entrepreneurship Summit, connecting with leaders from across the state to explore ways to strengthen Georgia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

GIDA’s McKenzie Padgett and Lucas Center for Entrepreneurship CEO Ande Noktes highlighted Elevate Glynn, GIDA’s new $1 million community investment initiative, including the Impact Loan Fund. The fund provides accessible, flexible capital and pairs it with mentorship and resources to help local entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses.

We’re proud to invest in the people and businesses driving economic opportunity across the Golden Isles!

08/18/2026

Thanks to our Elevate Glynn grant, local creativity and entrepreneurship continue to flourish right here in Brunswick!

Formerly known as Share the Future, the initiative has been rebranded as Elevate Glynn Sharing Grants to better reflect its mission of supporting local businesses and helping them reach new heights.

With support from the grant, Dot & Army was able to purchase a multi-purpose sewing machine, giving the business the tools needed to expand its product line and bring new creations to life. Investments like these can make a big impact, helping small businesses grow their capabilities, explore new opportunities, and continue building their presence in our community.

We’re proud to support businesses like Dot & Army that are putting local creativity to work and contributing to Brunswick’s thriving small business community.

Learn more about the Elevate Glynn Sharing Grants Initiative here ➡️https://goldenislesdev.com/elevate-glynn-initiative/

07/30/2026

We recently joined Brian Weese, CEO of the Golden Isles College & Career Academy for a visit to MWR Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay to explore ways we can support transitioning service members as they pursue civilian careers within Glynn County’s industries.

We walked away with creative ideas for connecting these talented individuals with local companies seeking skilled employees. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting new partnership!

07/27/2026

The Georgia Breakbulk Logistics Park has a new logo!

Managed by the Golden Isles Development Authority, the 1,400-acre industrial park is an important part of Glynn County’s continued economic development. With rail service, easy access to I-95, and proximity to the Port of Brunswick, the site is well positioned to support new businesses and long-term job growth.

The updated logo gives the park a fresh, recognizable identity as we continue sharing its advantages with companies considering the Golden Isles. We can't wait to see what's next!

07/10/2026

When our local businesses succeed, our entire community benefits.

We’re honored to see Georgia Trend highlight the launch of Elevate Glynn, a new initiative dedicated to helping entrepreneurs turn great ideas into thriving businesses by providing access to funding, education, and mentorship.

Programs like this create opportunities, strengthen our local economy, and help ensure the Golden Isles continues to be a place where innovation and small businesses can flourish.

We’re excited to see the impact Elevate Glynn will have on Glynn County and the people who call it home.

Read more about the impact here:

PRESS RELEASE – BRUNSWICK, Ga. – The Golden Isles Development Authority (GIDA) launches Elevate Glynn, a comprehensive initiative designed to provide local entrepreneurs with the capital, education, and resources they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses. In partnership with the Luca...

07/08/2026

We're proud to launch Elevate Glynn, a new initiative investing more than $1 million into local entrepreneurs through funding, mentorship, education, and resources designed to help businesses start, grow, and expand. From microloans and expansion financing to matching grants, Elevate Glynn is about creating more opportunities for the people and businesses that already call our community home.

Small businesses are the heart of Glynn County—and we're committed to helping them thrive.

When local businesses succeed, our entire community benefits through new jobs, stronger commercial districts, and long-term economic growth. Applications are now open, and we can't wait to see what our local entrepreneurs accomplish.

Learn more and apply today: https://goldenislesdev.com/elevate-glynn-initiative/

07/07/2026

Sharing a great opportunity for local students to learn more about one of Glynn County’s strongest economic drivers — the Port of Brunswick.

Hands-on experiences like this help young people better understand the career opportunities connected to maritime trade and the important role the port plays in our community.

Thank you to Commissioner Kendra Rolle and the Georgia Ports Authority for creating this opportunity for local teens!

*This tour is now full and no longer accepting students.*

Commissioner Kendra Rolle and the Georgia Ports Authority are excited to offer teens a unique, hands-on opportunity through the Brunswick Port Industry Experience. During the program, participants will learn how the port operates day to day, explore careers connected to maritime trade, and see firsthand how goods move in and out of our community. ⚓️

🚨 Ages 14-18
➡️ Only 25 spots available, register today:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/UzxWmkb9u1

Parent FAQs:
❓Can a parent attend?
Unfortunately not on this trip. Your child will be in good hands with our team and port professionals who are committed to a safe, educational experience.

❓What will be served at lunch?
Pizza will be provided for students.

❓What should my child wear?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are required, as we will be doing a lot of walking throughout the visit.