We are in the midst of an economic revolution. Over the next 10 to 20 years, many of the products and services that we use every day will be provided by “smart” technology and software automation. This machine-to-machine communication built on cloud computing and networks of data-gathering sensors will not only transform Savannah’s business operations but also leverage technology to address problems and improve quality of life. 

In addition, consumers will come to expect an intuitive user experience and low-friction transactions with the brands and services they interact with every day. So, how can local businesses stay ahead of the curve and stay relevant and engaging to their customer base? What can businesses do to embrace the process of innovation?  

At Georgia Tech Savannah, these are questions we hear every day from startups and entrepreneurs. To learn more about the history and process of innovation -- especially as it applies to entrepreneurs -- join Jennifer Bonnett, general manager of Georgia Tech’s Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), Blake Ellis, CEO and founding partner of CommerceV3, and Yvonne Jouffrault, entrepreneur-in-residence for ATDC, as they address Georgia Tech-Savannah’s “Learners and Leaders” series on Thursday, February 23, at 7:30 a.m. Participants will learn about the importance of innovation, how it has evolved in Savannah and the Southeast, what the process of innovation entails, what its common barriers are, and how to create an environment of innovative thinking. 

The talk, which will include remarks followed by an interactive discussion, will take place on the Georgia Tech-Savannah campus at 210 Technology Circle. Breakfast and networking will begin at 7:30 a.m.; the program will run 8-9:30 a.m. Cost, including breakfast, is $15. To register or learn more about upcoming programs, go to pe.gatech.edu/Sav-Learners or email [email protected] for details.

Diane Lee is the director of the Georgia Tech-Savannah campus. She manages the daily operations of the campus while working closely with regional community and business leaders to assess the educational needs of Coastal Georgia. She can be reached at [email protected].