BIG OR SMALL - IDEAS FOR ALL

At this year’s first “CREATE Entrepreneurship Summit,” over 200 leaders from communities of all sizes gathered to answer the question, “How we can improve our support for entrepreneurs and small businesses?”

Over the course of the day, resource providers, entrepreneurs, and statewide partners shared best practices, case studies, and resources to help answer that question.

Both big and small communities shared ideas about what was working for their region’s entrepreneurs or how they could collaborate to strengthen the impact of their programs.

One thing rang clear through the event - how leaders support entrepreneurs should not be determined by the size of the community but rather the needs of small business owners and alignment with stakeholders.

Whether reading this from metro Atlanta or enjoying a rural Georgia view – this quarter's ideas and resources are for all.

SPOTLIGHT ON COMMUNITY BEST PRACTICES

A big impact doesn't always require a big budget. Georgia’s leaders are finding creative ways to support small business growth in their community by removing barriers for businesses to launch and grow.

Check out the ideas coming from Habersham County and Tifton to learn how they may support your community’s entrepreneurship goals. You can read each community’s spotlight on growgeorgia.com/blog/success-stories.

Pop-Up in Habersham

The leadership in Habersham is attracting and fostering business growth by providing resources, hosting events, and creating programs to foster entrepreneurship. “The better businesses do in Habersham County; the better our whole community does,” shared Ellie Van Doornum, President of the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce.

To realize their vision, the Chamber and partners developed a Retail Success Program that includes opportunities for new retail businesses to test the market before committing to a long-term lease. The small “pop-up” space provides a low-cost, low-risk alternative for entrepreneurs ready to grow out of market or home sales, but not quite ready for their own brick-and-mortar.

The Chamber collaborated with other region leaders focused on entrepreneurship to apply for an Innovative Program Grant from the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (GACCE). In July this year, they received the award to expand their Retail Success Program.

Guiding Startups in Tifton

Navigating the permits and policies to start a new business is often a daunting part of starting or growing a small business. Entrepreneurs are experts in their products and services - not necessarily local zoning codes.

Communities like Tifton, GA are working to reduce the friction from idea to brick-and-mortar by creating “how-to” guides for entrepreneurs considering Tifton to locate or expand.

Tifton’s step-by-step guide walks through the major decisions an owner should consider before opening a new business in Tifton.

Outside of the permitting basics, the online guide provides important questions every entrepreneur needs to ask themselves – with nudges to plan, plan, and plan before signing a lease. Check out the last version here.

SUCESS STORIES

Local Creativity Monthly at Makers Market’s Outdoor Market

The heart of small business and craftsmanship can be found at Makers Market’s Outdoor Market in Alpharetta, Georgia. Hosted monthly at The Avalon, this vibrant event showcases American-made products from talented local artisans and entrepreneurs.

Makers Market isn’t just a store; it’s a movement. With locations across California's Bay Area and a standout spot in Alpharetta, its mission is clear and compelling. “Our mission is to rebuild the legacy of American made,” shared Jarod, manager of Maker’s Market in Alpharetta. “Every product in our store comes from an American maker, artist, or small business.”

From hand-drawn maps by Edward Rowan to handcrafted self-care products by Selena Clay of Salyana Essentials LLC, each vendor brings a unique story and passion to their work. It’s more than shopping — it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the legacy of American-made craftsmanship.

Join us in supporting small businesses and experience the joy of connecting with the makers behind the products you love.

FEATURED RESOURCE - THE GEORGIA CENTER OF INNOVATION AGTECH

The Georgia Center of Innovation AgTech team helps Georgia’s farmers and agriculture businesses tackle challenges, grow, and succeed. From raising healthier animals to creating new food products, innovating with precision agriculture, and finding more profitable ways to increase yields, the team connects businesses with the tools and resources they need to scale their operations. Their guidance is free for Georgia-based companies, and by connecting them with universities and industry and state partners, including the state’s export services, the Center is helping Georgia agriculture businesses thrive at home and around the world. Learn more at georgia.org/agtech [georgia.org].

ATTEND TO LEARN, CONNECT, AND GROW

Rural Georgia Prosperity Summit – October 1

The Georgia Chamber’s Rural Prosperity Summit is an annual event that brings together hundreds of business leaders and elected officials who are passionate about creating vibrant, robust rural communities throughout the state of Georgia. Register at Rural Prosperity Summit | Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

Venture Atlanta – October 15,16

Venture Atlanta is, without a doubt, one of the largest and most reputable venture conferences in the country. With over 1,500 annual attendees, 450 funds, and $17B in successful exits, the better question might be, “Why wouldn’t you attend this networking event?” Register at https://www.ventureatlanta.org/.

NOMINATIONS OPEN – GEORGIA SMALL BUSINESS ROCK STARS 2026

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Georgia Small Business ROCK STARS awards. The program honors outstanding small businesses across the state that demonstrate innovation, community engagement, and a strong commitment to growth and excellence.

Each year, the program highlights Georgia companies that are making a measurable impact in their industries and communities. Through job creation, innovation, and exporting, these businesses help drive Georgia’s economy.

Nominations close October 31st, 2025.

Nominate your own or a community business at https://georgia.org/rockstars.