WE BUILD COMMUNITIES

America’s SBDCs help make the dream of small business ownership a reality for more Americans — creating jobs and opportunities that build communities throughout the nation.

See how the Georgia SBDC has served its communities.

RURAL DEVELOPMENT

Peerless Manufacturing Brings Back Employees with the Help of the SBDC

Peerless employs 40 residents in rural South Georgia. When the shutdown forced the company to furlough their staff, it greatly impacted the small community of Shellman. With the help of the SBDC, Peerless was able to bring employees back to work.

UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES

With help from the SBDC, preschool owner keeps business operational

Harmony Learning Academy in Lithia Springs had grown to 60 children, nine full-time and one part-time employee, and earnings were up when the coronavirus forced it to close. Owner Josie Moss furloughed staff and began looking at ways to keep the business afloat. With guidance from the SBDC and with support from the SBA emergency loan programs, Harmony Learning Academy was able to reopen to continue to serve families in the community of Lithia Springs, Georgia.

EXPORT

Business Planning Produces Runaway Sales for Cocoatown in Global Markets

Andal and Balu Balasubramanian are feeding the foodie revolution with their bean-to-bar dark chocolates. After working with experts from the SBDC, they expanded into new markets and are pioneering the popularity of New American Chocolate.

MILLENNIALS + GEN-Z

If a small business owner feels they're moving into unfamiliar territory, it is very easy to contact the SBDC and get great advice. I've found a good thing, so I'm sticking with it.

Dr. Michael Ammermon, Owner of Pooler Veterinary Hospital

VETERANS

The SBDC is a very big part of why we're here today. I look at them as my extended brain trust, my teaming partner, and an extension of my operational plan. They continue to ensure that I get the consultation that's required.

Frank Brown, Founder of IPCE, LLC

WOMEN- OWNED

Sound business fundamentals help Therapy Tree thrive

Teresa McElroy's business, The Therapy Tree, is a lifeline for families throughout Southeast Georgia who need occupational, speech and Applied Behavior Analysis therapy for their children, many of whom are autistic. She launched the business with one patient in her family's trailer in 2008. A dozen years later and with the help of the SBDC, she has grown her practice to 35 therapists serving nearly 500 children at five office locations.