Savannah's Diverse Economy

No longer dependent on only a few industries, Savannah Ga has developed a diverse economy which bodes well in an economic downturn. Manufacturing is one aspect with companies like Gulfstream, International Paper and Carson Products being a few major players.

Savannah also prepared well with infrastructure to attract small hi-tech companies. This is taken from the Creative Coast Initiative website:

We speak geek

Technology? Yes, please. From the 38,000 miles of fiber optic cable to the 100 square miles of wireless broadband to the thousands of college students in dozens of technology-related fields, Savannah knows how to speak geek.

We’ve even got a history of technological innovation – we built the first steamship that crossed an ocean – so we’ve got it in our veins!

And tech business? We’ve got lots of it. Verisign, Gulfstream ring a bell? They both have headquarters in Savannah. Combine a thriving business community with a slew of technology organizations and an open minded and cooperative educational infrastructure and you’ve got the recipe for innovation.

The port system is also growing the import/export business here and creating jobs that feed off the port business. I have friends in the import/export business, and while it has its up and downs all signals for the future are positive. We have seen large distributors come in the area in recent years -- Target, Home Depot, Wal-mart - building huge distribution centers and cross-dock operations.

The military is also a big part of the Savannah economy with Hunter Airfield in the center of Southside Savannah. Hopefully many of these brave men and women will be coming home soon to enjoy the benefits of the Savannah economy and be with their loved ones.

Last but certainy not least is the growing tourism business which has boomed in recent years. Savannah has become a favoritie vacation spot for many who are discovering its unique beauty and charm. Hotels and restaurants continue to sring up seemingly overnight. Shops downtown, as mentioned in my previous post, are vibrant serving locals and tourists.

All in all, Savannah has become a dynamic place to live and the growth has been managed fairly well. The historical uniqueness of Savannah has been preserved, but the new has found a place. It is a good marriage so far. 

Mike from Savannah