With 18 locations across the state, the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center’s goal is to enhance the economic well-being of Georgians by providing a wide range of educational services for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.
For nearly 60 years, Cooper Machine Company has built high-quality sawmill, pallet, and cooperage equipment for customers in the U.S. and abroad. Founded in 1965 by Billy Cooper, the company’s signature Overhead End Dogging Scragg remains a hallmark product.
Today, CEO Frances Cooper continues the family legacy, supported by her team. Like many manufacturers, Cooper Machine has faced challenges hiring skilled labor. When finding mechanical engineers became a barrier, Frances turned to the UGA SBDC for support.
"Running a business is not an easy task. But when we do have some struggles, we know that we can call on the UGA SBDC to help us with whatever problem we have.”
Big dreams need the right support. We give entrepreneurs the tools, training and resources to build lasting success.
Our clients see stronger sales, more job growth and a higher three-year success rate compared to the average Georgia business.
Here’s a look around our client’s success over the past five years.
15,074
Jobs Created
$9.7B
Sales Generated
2,218
Businesses Started
$1.27B
Capital Accessed
Discover the programs that empower Georgia entrepreneurs to take the next step in their business. From workshops and webinars to group cohorts, our training programs cover every stage of business growth.
Learn practical skills, gain actionable insights and connect with a network of experts ready to guide you forward.
The UGA SBDC is funded through a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
All SBDC services are provided in a nondiscriminatory way to all legal residents and citizens in the United States. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
The UGA SBDC is an accredited member of America’s SBDC.
The University of Georgia
Small Business Development Center
382 East Broad Street
Athens, GA 30602-5412
P: (706) 542-2762
