United organization will streamline operations and enhance capacity for building a quality economy

(Savannah, GA) November 13, 2007 – The November board meeting of the Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) included an announcement of the merger of two SEDA-sponsored organizations, cBETA and The Creative Coast (CC), into a single, enhanced organization. The new entity, called “The Creative Coast” (CC), preserves the best components of both groups while synchronizing efforts to advance a higher-wage Savannah economy.

In its 11-year existence, the Coastal Business, Education and Technology Alliance (cBETA) has focused on professional development and networking as well as the development of infrastructure to support Savannah’s knowledge-based community. In 2003, cBETA helped to launch The Creative Coast, which has focused on attracting, nurturing and promoting knowledge-based business in Savannah. Merging the two entities affords more efficient use of resources while adding new capabilities.

SEDA vice president Chuck Stallworth will lead The Creative Coast (CC) alongside Jamie Wolf, cBETA’s managing director, in efforts to help attract and grow knowledge-based businesses and higher-wage jobs to Savannah. Chris Miller, CC’s executive director and founder, will continue in the role of chief strategist for the combined organizations as an active professional consultant and advisor.

“CC and cBETA and have made significant contributions to our community, and this merger will align their efforts,” said Rick Winger, SEDA president. “With a singular mission, and with Chuck Stallworth’s executive leadership, we will see an expanded presence outside of Savannah and an increase in business recruitment.”

“I look forward to working with Chris and Jamie,” said Stallworth. “CC and cBETA have each accomplished a great deal independently, and a common focus will only accelerate the achievement of our economic vision for the region. Together, we’ve identified exciting new initiatives in addition to the work we’re carrying forward from both entities.”

Key CC objectives and initiatives to support area knowledge-based business include:

• Improving regional and national awareness through marketing, public relations, and award/recognition program participation
• Expanded efforts to recruit businesses nationally while incubating new businesses locally
• Undertaking advocacy and policy initiatives on behalf of area business interests
• Promoting educational and professional development with conferences and seminars
• Supporting entrepreneurial efforts through capital formation, grant awareness and investor conferences
• Promoting talent recruitment and retention with online resources and direct outreach

CC is a 501©(6) organization. Like its predecessor components, the CC will be funded by contributions from SEDA, the City of Savannah, Chatham County, memberships, event sponsorships and patrons. For more information, visit http://www.thecreativecoast.org">www.thecreativecoast.org.