The Leadership Exchange and Development Series (LEADS) is the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce’s premier regional leadership experience. Each year, community and business leaders from across Coastal Georgia travel together to another community to study innovative approaches to economic development, workforce, housing, transportation, tourism, education, public safety, and quality of life.
LEADS is built on the idea that great leaders never stop learning. By examining how other communities solve complex challenges, participants return home with fresh ideas, stronger regional relationships, and practical strategies that help shape the future of our own communities
LEADS 2025: Nashville, Tennessee
The inaugural LEADS delegation traveled to Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee, where participants explored one of the nation’s fastest-growing metropolitan regions.
The program examined transformational redevelopment projects, including the Tennessee Titans’ new stadium and Nashville’s East Bank master plan, while also taking a closer look at regional transportation, housing affordability, childcare, tourism, workforce development, military partnerships, and higher education. Delegates met with elected officials, economic development leaders, educators, and nonprofit partners to gain firsthand insight into the policies and partnerships driving Middle Tennessee’s growth.
The experience demonstrated how collaboration across sectors can position an entire region for long-term success while providing valuable lessons that continue to influence conversations throughout Coastal Georgia.
Click here to view the 2025 LEADS Nashville Trip Agenda & Delegation
The Savannah Area Chamber extends sincere appreciation to the sponsors whose support helped make this impactful program possible: Georgia Power, Gulfstream, Hyundai HMGMA, HCA Healthcare, Pape‑Dawson Engineers, Ad Specialty, Goodwill Southeast Georgia, Live Oak Restaurant Group, River Street Sweets, and Water Utility Management. Their investment played a key role in advancing meaningful regional dialogue and collaboration.
LEADS 2026: New Orleans, Louisiana
October 28–30, 2026
This year’s delegation will travel to New Orleans, Louisiana, for an immersive exploration of one of America’s most resilient and culturally significant cities.
Through conversations with recognized leaders and behind-the-scenes access to public and private institutions, delegates will examine how New Orleans has transformed challenges into opportunities for innovation and growth.
Key discussion topics include:
- Tourism as an economic engine
- Greater New Orleans Water Plan and storm water management
- Public-private partnerships
- Historic preservation and neighborhood revitalization
- Housing and homelessness
- Disaster resilience and infrastructure
- Public safety and major event management
- Workforce development, higher education and HBCU leadership
- The role of arts, music, and culture in community identity
The delegation will engage with leaders from government, business, higher education, nonprofit organizations, and the hospitality industry while experiencing the unique culture that has made New Orleans one of the world’s most recognizable cities.
2026 Delegation
The 2026 LEADS delegation represents an outstanding cross-section of leaders from throughout Coastal Georgia, including business executives, elected officials, nonprofit leaders, educators, military representatives, entrepreneurs, and community advocates.
Together, these participants represent Bryan, Bulloch, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, and Liberty counties and will spend three days learning, collaborating, and bringing innovative ideas back to strengthen our region.
Check back later for the full delegation coming soon.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
The Savannah Area Chamber gratefully acknowledges the organizations whose investment makes LEADS possible. Their commitment to leadership development strengthens not only this program but the future of our entire region.