EC Georgia News

The Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce has announced that James M. Bailey, President and CEO of the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), will be the keynote speaker at its 116th Annual Meeting. The event, themed "Rise & Thrive, Building Legacies that Last," is scheduled for March 13 at The Bell Auditorium.

The dinner event is presented by Jordan Trotter Commercial Real Estate and Parker’s Kitchen. It will highlight upcoming Chamber priorities and celebrate past achievements. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the program beginning at 6:30 p.m.

James M. Bailey, known as "Jay," leads RICE, an entrepreneurial hub focused on developing Black businesses. Under his leadership, RICE supports over 600 entrepreneurs full-time and sustains more than 4,000 jobs in the community. His efforts have resulted in a $557 million economic impact in Metro Atlanta.

Bailey's accolades include recognition from three U.S. Presidents and being named one of Atlanta's "Most Admired CEOs" by the Atlanta Business Chronicle. He was also honored as a "Champion of Change" at the White House in 2012.

Tickets for the Annual Meeting are priced at $100 for Chamber members and $125 for prospective members, with corporate tables available at a discount. Registration must be completed by March 7 through augustametrochamber.com.

The event is supported by Platinum Sponsors such as Wellstar and Georgia Power, along with media sponsors including News 12 26 and The Augusta Chronicle.

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