Savannah Harbor Innovation Partnership is proud toannounce its formation, marking a significant milestone in the expanded evolution of the innovation ecosystem in the greater Savannah Harbor region.

The new organization builds upon the foundation of the Savannah Logistics Innovation Center (SLIC), which was created by organizations such as Georgia Southern University’s Business Innovation Group (BIG) and the Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA), to name a few.

SHIP’s enhanced approach to building a wider, scalable, sustainable ecosystem will further some of the broader region's collective goals in attracting unique, marquee companies and growing opportunities for entrepreneurs.

Following its recent strategic plan, SHIP will incorporate the mission of SLIC including its focus on logistics and supply chain innovation while also fostering expansion into other key industry pillars.

The organization will coordinate efforts among regional entities that each contribute unique expertise to an innovation ecosystem to drive strategic alignment, establish best practices, and encourage interconnectivity while maintaining an eye on measurable outcomes. The currently forming board of directors will include leaders from research institutions, technology and entrepreneurship experts, and investors from key businesses and organizations in and around the Savannah Harbor region. Maintaining a nimble, efficient, multidisciplinary, and market-driven board is critical to SHIP’s mission of defining, building and continuously evolving the innovation ecosystem for the Savannah Harbor.

“Georgia Southern is thrilled to be a part of this transformative initiative at the outset. SHIP will not only enhance our ability but the abilities of our entire network of regional academic institutions to support local entrepreneurs, as well as position Savannah and the harbor region at large as a leading hub for innovation and logistics solutions, ” said Dr. Dominique Halaby, Vice President of Innovation at Georgia Southern University. SHIPs broader scope and strategy leverage a newly formed relationship with notable venture capital firm VentureSouth, which has committed to providing investment education in the region and, with SHIP leadership’s support, will actively recruit investors for startup companies and venture funds.

“I am excited about the potential this partnership holds for the Savannah region. By building on past successes and leveraging our collective strengths, we are making an evolutionary step in our mission to foster the thriving innovation ecosystem to attract investment and drive economic growth, ” said Bart Gobeil, SHIP Chairman. For additional information, contact: Abbegayle Stallons