23rd Annual South Metro Development Outlook Conference (SMDO25) Returns With Visionary Agenda To Spur Economic Growth

The region's premier economic development forum to tackle key policy issues and foster collaboration between public and private sectors.

ATLANTA, Feb. 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Against the backdrop of evolving federal policies and shifting economic conditions, the 23rd Annual South Metro Development Outlook (SMDO25) Conference is set to convene top industry leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Taking place on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at the Georgia International Convention Center (GICC) in College Park, GA, from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., this year's forum promises forward-thinking discussions under the theme, "Visionary Leadership: Crafting Tomorrow's Economic Landscape."

With its most robust agenda to date, SMDO25 continues to serve as the leading platform for examining and shaping the future of economic development in South Metro Atlanta, encompassing Clayton, Coweta, Douglas, Fayette, Henry, and South Fulton Counties, as well as the City of Atlanta. Attendees will gain insights into the region's challenges and opportunities through a robust agenda featuring topics such as:

• Emerging Technologies and Their Economic Implications
• Empowering Small Businesses for Long-Term Success
• Gateway Flint River Trails Project
• Regional Economic Forecasting and Growth
• Strategies for Sustainable Growth
• Updates on Transportation & Transit in South Metro

Influential Speakers and Thought Leaders
This year, SMDO25 will showcase a dynamic lineup of influential speakers including:

• Mayor Andre Dickens, City of Atlanta
• Roger C. Tutterow, Ph.D., Director of the Econometric Center, Kennesaw State University
• Anna Roach, Executive Director & CEO, Atlanta Regional Commission
• Collie Greenwood, Chief of Bus Operations and Urban Planning, MARTA
• Terreta Rodgers, Head of Community Affairs, Amazon
• Carlotta Harrell, Chairwoman, Henry County
• Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, CEO, Dekalb County
• Dr. Alieka Anderson, Chairwoman, Clayton County
• Lisa Cupid, Chairwoman, Cobb County
• Nicole Love Hendrickson, Chairwoman, Gwinnett County

…and many others. [Click here to view the full speaker line-up.]

A Cornerstone for Economic Development
With more than 700 attendees expected, SMDO25 serves as a cornerstone event for those committed to advancing the economic vitality of Atlanta's South Metro region. The forum will highlight critical sectors, including the ports of Savannah and the region's thriving airline industry—both of which have far-reaching impacts on commerce across the Southeast. In light of new realities surrounding tariffs, tort reform, and security, SMDO25 will deliver actionable insights and solutions aimed at fostering sustainable growth.

"Over the past 23 years, the South Metro Development Outlook Conference has become the premier platform for bringing together thought leaders, developers, and community stakeholders to drive economic growth and innovation in the South Metro region," says Michael Hightower, SMDO Founder. "As we reflect on our history, we celebrate our impact in shaping the area's development and future. Looking ahead, we're committed to continuing this tradition of collaboration and advancing new opportunities that will shape the region for decades to come."

Registration and Additional Information
Registration is now open on Eventbrite. Tickets are $105 through February 10th, and $125 on-site on February 19th. For more information and updates, please visit www.smdoconference.com.

About South Metro Development Outlook Conference (SMDO)

Since 2003, the South Metro Development Outlook Conference (SMDO) has convened some of the Southern Region's most reputable business and civic leaders, researchers and policy experts to provide economic development forecasts on a variety of topics. SMDO is the brainchild of Michael Hightower, Managing Partner of The Collaborative Firm, LLC, a planning, program management, and development company. Now in its 23rd year, SMDO focuses on promoting economic growth and collaboration throughout South Metro Atlanta. Since its inception, the conference has served as a key platform for thought leaders to share insights, foster connections, and inspire action to ensure the region's continued success.

Press Contact:

Lalohni Campbell
404-593-7145
https://www.smdoconference.com/

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SOURCE South Metro Development Outlook Conference (SMDO)