For the seventh year, a consortium of globally minded organizations is banding together to bring the world to Macon on the evening of Feb. 19, 2026, sharing stories and fostering connections that promise to boost global commerce and culture in Middle Georgia.

Sponsored by Smith + Howard and local attorney Christopher N. Smith, who also serves as Denmark’s honorary consul in Georgia, the statewide Global Trade and Investment Symposium is set to unpack the vital global links that keep Georgia undeniably connected across borders in commerce and culture, with a particular focus on key industries where the state maintains global competitiveness. 

The event will underscore productive exchanges and provide tangible illustrations of shared prosperity at a time of turbulence in broader U.S. trade relationships. 

The evening discussion will once again be held at Pierce Chapel on the campus of Wesleyan College, the event’s host each year since 2020, and will feature leading voices from automotive and aerospace manufacturing, along with economic development leaders charged with telling the state’s both locally and abroad.

This year will include a special focus on Belgium, a country where Georgia needs no introduction: More than 60 Belgian investors, including a new company announced during Gov. Brian Kemp’s recent trip to Brussels, have made their U.S. home in the state, spanning industries from flooring to biotech to plastics. 

Belgian Consul General Katherine Raeymaekers will join a panel discussion to share insights on economic diplomacy and the state of transatlantic ties, reflecting also on the importance of the recently extended nonstop flight to Brussels from Atlanta. 

Along with the consul general, the discussion moderated by Global Atlanta Managing Editor Trevor Williams is to include:

• Andrew Capezzuto, Director of Corporate Affairs, Rivian Automotive, which is building a $5B+ plant in Social Circle, Ga., that will serve as the epicenter for its new R2 SUV, which will be sold throughout the US and exported to Europe and beyond. (Rivian will have one of its R1 S vehicles on display outside the venue).
• Jason Dunn, Executive Director of the Fitzgerald and Ben Hill County Development Authority, representing Locate South Georgia in its efforts to attract more foreign investment
• Ember Bentley, Executive Director of the newly formed Georgia Aerospace & Defense Alliance, helping grow the ecosystem for Georgia's top export product

Confirmed attendees include diplomats representing nearly 20 countries in Georgia, along with a cross-section of some 120 leaders in business, academia and economic development. The panel will be followed by a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres in Wesleyan’s Burden Parlor. 

Cost: $30

MEDIA: Accredited members of the media are welcome to attend at no cost to cover this on-the-record discussion, which will include a moderated Q&A. 

ENGAGE: 

• View speaker bios and register here – logistical details will be sent upon registration. 
• Download a full flyer
• Media Contact: Global Atlanta Managing Editor Trevor Williams at [email protected]
• Event/logistical questions: Global Atlanta Engagement Director Michal Jensby at [email protected]