The Heart of Atlanta: Exploring South Downtown's Renewal

Tickets are currently available exclusively to World Affairs Council of Atlanta members. To ensure an intimate, high-value experience, participation is limited to just 15 attendees. We encourage early registration, this program is expected to fill quickly. Your registration directly supports the mission of the World Affairs Council of Atlanta.

Not a member? Join today to enjoy priority access to programs like this one, discounted registration for select events, and exclusive member benefits throughout the year.

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PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Join the World Affairs Council of Atlanta for an exclusive tour of South Downtown Atlanta, led by Jon Birdsong, CEO of SoDo Atlanta, LLC.

As one of the city’s most significant redevelopment stories, South Downtown illustrates how historic preservation, creative placemaking, entrepreneurship, and community engagement can work together to strengthen Atlanta’s economic and cultural impact. Through a guided tour of the district, attendees will learn about the evolution of the area, explore key redevelopment projects, and engage with leaders helping position South Downtown as a vibrant destination within Atlanta’s urban core.

Limited to a small group to ensure an intimate and high-value experience, this tour offers rare, firsthand access to one of the most ambitious urban revitalization efforts shaping Atlanta's future.

AGENDA

• 10:00 – 10:30 AM Welcome & Networking

  • Coffee generously hosted by Jon Birdsong, CEO at SoDo Atlanta, LLC

• 10:30 – 11:30 AM Guided South Downtown Tour

  • Explore historic buildings, public art, murals, retail spaces, and key redevelopment projects driving the neighborhood’s revitalization

• 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Closing Remarks & Networking

  • Recap key takeaways and connect with fellow attendees

• 12:00 PM (Optional) Networking Lunch

  • Continue the conversation, on your own, over lunch at a nearby South Downtown restaurant

SPEAKER BIO

Jon Birdsong is the CEO of the development in South Downtown, Atlanta. Born and raised in Atlanta, Jon has spent the majority of his career co-founding and investing in companies through Atlanta Ventures including Greenzie (autonomous commercial lawn mowers), Intown Golf Club, Grayscale, AdPipe and several others. Now Jon is learning real-estate on the fly by revitalizing 50+ buildings across 16 acres in the original Heart of Atlanta. Jon is a proud graduate of the University of Georgia.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A guided site tour led by Jon Birdsong, offering firsthand insight into SoDo Atlanta's vision, development strategy and community impact

• Acloser look at the historic preservation, local investment and renewed energy shaping the heart of the city

• A coffee reception to kick off the morning

• Small-group access designed for deeper conversation and meaningful engagement

• Networking with fellow Young Leaders and Atlanta professionals helping shape the city's global future

This program is organized by the World Affairs Council of Atlanta Young Leaders Executive Board.

Meet the Council's Young Leaders.