Economics

For more than 40 years, Arts in the Heart of Augusta (AITH) has had a growing impact on the local economy. This year, it is closing in on $2 million. Destination Augusta estimates AITH draws approximately 100,000 to Augusta, and the impact has grown exponentially. The 2023 AITH brought in $1,739,000. That grew to $1,849,000 in 2024. The tourism experts are predicting that this year could be bigger, with an estimated $1,872,000 impact. “Our hotels are full; our rental car agencies are full. We employ for the festival, a lot

One of Metro Augusta’s largest sporting events is offering local businesses an opportunity to welcome participants and volunteers. The Augusta Sports Council is inviting businesses in Georgia and South Carolina to participate in this year’s IM Local program. It is connected to the annual IRONMAN 70.3 Augusta triathlon, set for Sept. 28 this year. “We saw a need and an opportunity to promote what we have locally, to the athletes that were coming, the family and friends that they were bringing with them, but also for the volunteers that were