Georgia Business Focus: Digital innovation, rising energy costs and business excellence
The roundup covers a new digital infrastructure coalition, an August 6 agriculture conference and a small-business contest offering a $50,000 top prize.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Here’s the latest Georgia Business Focus:
Digital infrastructure alliance launched
The Georgia Chamber of Commerce has announced the launch of the Georgia Digital Infrastructure Alliance, a coalition designed to strengthen the state’s leadership in the digital economy. This new initiative brings together business leaders, infrastructure providers, utilities, and community stakeholders to focus on responsible growth, infrastructure readiness, workforce development, and economic competitiveness across a range of industries. As part of this launch, the Chamber also introduced the Data Center Ready Community Designation, aimed at helping Georgia communities proactively attract and prepare for digital infrastructure investment.
Energy Prices on the Rise
Meanwhile, energy prices are making headlines across the region. Both global and U.S. oil benchmarks rose approximately four percent on Wednesday, with crude prices surging by about $20 a barrel this month amid escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. Georgia consumers are feeling the pressure at the pump, with the state average now at $4.06 per gallon for regular gas.
State of Agriculture Conference Returns
In the agriculture sector, attention turns to the second annual “State of Agriculture” conference, scheduled for August 6 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter. The Perry Area Chamber of Commerce says this year’s theme, “From Classroom to Career: Building Agriculture’s Future,” will focus on workforce development, agricultural education, and preparing the next generation of leaders in Georgia’s crucial agriculture industry.
Manufacturing Innovation Spotlighted
Innovation in manufacturing is also in the spotlight. The Georgia Chamber recently revealed the Top 2 finalists in the 2026 Coolest Thing Made in Georgia competition: the Blue Bird Vision Electric School Bus and TifTuf Drought Tolerant Bermudagrass. After over 100,000 votes cast from across the state, these two standout products will compete for the title, with the winner set to be announced at the Georgia Chamber Congressional Luncheon on August 5.
Small Businesses Compete for Top Honors
Small business owners are also being recognized. Entries are open through July 31 for the 2026 AT&T Small Business Contest, which will award $50,000 to one top business and $5,000 each to four finalists. The contest highlights local businesses that drive growth and make a difference in their communities, with winners to be announced later this year.
