Bioenergy Conference Delivers Real World Information.

TIFTON, Ga. -- The concept of alternative fuels is a hot topic - and destined to grow in intensity. The Georgia Bioenergy Conference, August 1-3 in Tifton, Georgia, brings the topic to forefront with nationally and internationally known speakers in the alternative fuel industry. Growers, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, economic developers, support businesses and researchers can all learn how to be a part of bioenergy fuel development at the conference.

Seminar sessions targeted specifically to each of the groups are a part of the three-day conference. A free pre-conference workshop scheduled for July 31, "Teaching Renewable Energy Awareness in Schools," provides educators with tools to use when teaching renewable energy concepts in the classroom.

Information regarding the current state of bioenergy as well as developments on the horizon, how growers are key to the success of bioenergy companies and the nuts and bolts of starting or investing in a bioenergy company are all part of the conference. Conference participants can also listen in as federal and state legislators hold a roundtable discussion moderated by Georgia Senator Ross Tolleson.

For those who think renewable energy is a '70's era topic or something destined to be a pipe dream, attending this conference will prove to be an eye-opening experience. Learning how plant based ethanol is currently being used to stretch petroleum, how pine trees and other plant based products are being developed and refined for commercial use as well as products in the research stage is enough to pique the interest of anyone - and in particular, those people and companies with a potential role to play in the creation of renewable energy.

The 35 conference organizers include representatives from leading Georgia companies, elected officials and local, state and federal organizations. Primary sponsors of the event include the Agriculture Innovation Center in Tifton, Georgia Institute of Technology and the University of Georgia. For more information go to www.gabioenergy.org or call 229.386.7274.

Agriculture Innovation Center (AgIC)

The Agriculture Innovation Center is one of six centers founded by Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue in 2003; the centers focus on areas of strategic interest in the state, including aerospace, maritime logistics, manufacturing, information technology and life sciences, in addition to agriculture. The program provides a gateway to direct services designed to foster growth for entrepreneurs and existing businesses with innovative ideas. Services include access to university level research and development, business incubator space, connections to state and industry leaders, matching research grant funds, business coaching and more.