GDA IS A NON-PROFIT STATEWIDE ORGANIZATION THAT CONNECTS COMMUNITIES AND PROFESSIONALS THAT ARE COMMITTED TO DOWNTOWN VITALITY.

GDA Mission
Connect communities and equip professionals through training and networking to strengthen and advocate for Georgia’s downtowns.

GDA Vision
A statewide network of thriving downtowns and equipped professionals that are recognized as Georgia’s most valuable economic engine

We provide accredited training programs for downtown development professionals, advocate for Georgia's downtowns, and educate private and public sectors on the economic benefits of a thriving downtown. GDA also hosts the annual Georgia Downtown Conference to offer top notch educational training and networking opportunities.

Benefits of Membership

If you are working to foster downtown revitalization or working within the field of downtown development, Georgia Downtown Association (GDA) membership provides you with access to the information and expertise you need to promote successful downtown revitalization efforts.

GDA Award Winners


Award of Excellence - Premier Special Event - Downtown Perry Wine Tasting
City of Perry

Award of Excellence - Outstanding Promotional Campaign - Treat Yourself in Thomasville
City of Thomasville

Award of Excellence - Premier Partner - Fox Theatre Institute
City of Americus

Award of Excellence - Outstanding Community Transformation/Downtown of the Year - City of Hartwell
City of Hartwell

Award of Excellence - Outstanding Community Transformation/Downtown of the Year-City of Thomasville
City of Thomasville

Award of Excellence - Main Street Hero - Connie Tabor
City of Toccoa

Award of Excellence - Creative New Event - The Ultimate Participation Trophy
City of Suwanee

Award of Excellence - Best Public Improvement Project - Better Buford Highway Project
City of Suwanee

Award of Excellence - Best Placemaking Project - The Chappell Street Community Space
City of Griffin

Award of Excellence - Best Facade Rehabilitation - JEC Development
City of Monroe

Award of Excellence - Best Creative Fundraising Effort- Tybee Island Polar Plunge
City of Tybee Island

Award of Excellence - Main Street Hero - Helene Jones
City of Dallas

Award of Excellence - Best Adaptive Reuse - Shelley Hall
City of Calhoun

Georgia's Downtowns Are Happening

Hart County Bass Classic Open Tournament

Hart County Bass Classic Open Tournament

Gum Branch Mega Ramp, 1352 Vanna Waller Rd, Hartwell, GA 30643
April 27 5 AM
Get ready for the ultimate fishing showdown at the Gum Branch Mega Ramp in Hartwell, GA! Our fishing tournament promises an exciting day on the water, starting with a safe light launch for all participants. The competition will be fierce as anglers cast their lines in pursuit of the catch of a lifetime. Weigh-in, managed by Boating Atlanta, kicks off at 3 pm, adding an extra layer of anticipation as contenders showcase their impressive hauls. With a range of fabulous prizes up for grabs, including gear and CASH, this tournament is not only a test of skill but a chance to reel in fantastic rewards. To ensure everyone starts the day right, we've teamed up with Dairy Queen to provide a complimentary breakfast for all participants. Fuel up with a delicious biscuit before hitting the water and maximize your chances of landing that winning catch. Join us for a day of angling excitement, camaraderie, and the opportunity to claim your spot as the top angler at the Gum Branch Mega Ramp fishing tournament in Hartwell, GA! Contact: Hart County Chamber of Commerce - 706-376-8590

Great American Clean Up Day

Downtown Flowery Branch
April 27 8 AM
Engage in the Great American Cleanup, a rewarding initiative perfect for those seeking community service hours, as you contribute to preserving the beauty of Flowery Branch and fostering a sense of civic responsibility. Coffee and doughnuts are provided!

Main Street Market

Hahira, Georgia
April 27 9 AM
The Main Street Market is an open air event and provides an opportunity for local vendors to come out and offer their products and services to the community.

GDA News

Downtown Edge Scholarship

GDA pays tribute to our late friend and colleague Adam Edge by announcing the Downtown Edge Scholarship

Main Street Georgia - Heartbeat Video

Video provided by our friends at the Office of Downtown Development