CADDA Marks 50 Years of Supporting Small Businesses in Coastal Georgia

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - What began as a single effort to save local jobs has grown into five decades of economic impact along Georgia’s coast. The Coastal Area District Development Authority, known as CADDA, is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026, marking years of helping small businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen communities across coastal Georgia and beyond.

Founded in 1976, the Coastal Area District Development Authority was created to stimulate economic recovery and preserve jobs across coastal Georgia, beginning with a single federal grant supporting a seafood processor in Brunswick and growing into one of the nation’s earliest and largest rural revolving loan funds. Over time, CADDA evolved into a self-sustaining nonprofit recognized for its role in development finance. “CADDA’s history is rooted in resilience and turning challenges into opportunity,” said CEO Terry Louk, who noted the organization’s long-standing mission to help entrepreneurs access the financing they need to succeed.

Over the decades, CADDA expanded its reach by becoming an SBA Certified Development Company, adding USDA and SBA loan programs, and managing multiple federal and regional funding sources. In 2024, the organization defederalized its programs, gaining full local control of its lending portfolio to ensure long-term sustainability.

To mark the milestone, CADDA has unveiled a new logo and refreshed brand identity and plans a year-long series of celebrations and community initiatives. The anniversary events will begin with an invite-only Partner Appreciation Event on Feb. 5, 2026, at Enmarket Arena in Savannah, followed by an evening with the Savannah Ghost Pirates.

More information about CADDA’s anniversary and programs is available at cadda-sba.org.