The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC) has released the 2026 edition of “Small Business and Its Impact on Georgia.” This annual publication provides key data on Georgia’s 1.4 million small businesses and takes a closer look at industry trends in Atlanta and South Georgia.
When Griffin Thomas saw an opportunity to expand his business, TopLine Lawncare and Landscaping, he knew he needed guidance. With UGA SBDC support, he secured financing, improved financial management, and expanded into a new facility—fueling 24% revenue growth and earning SBA Georgia Young Entrepreneur of the Year honors.
Chrissy Miner—owner and principal of The Miner Agency—leveraged the UGA Small Business Development Center to strengthen operations, expand into government contracting, earn key federal certifications, and grow her company into a seven-figure business.
Built in Georgia, trusted worldwide. Winton Machine produces advanced automation equipment used across the globe. See how UGA SBDC support helped the company grow from a small startup into an internationally recognized manufacturer delivering American-made solutions to customers everywhere.
DeLong’s Gizzard Equipment, a specialty poultry equipment parts manufacturer, has carved out a niche in an industry dominated by one-stop poultry machine shops. When owner
Six UGA SBDC clients have been named 2026 Georgia District SBA Award winners, recognizing their leadership, innovation, and impact on Georgia’s economy.
These entrepreneurs represent the very best of small business—driving job creation, strengthening communities, and proving what’s possible with the right support and determination.
When Adam Hammock launched iS3 Tech Services, he had deep technical expertise—but knew scaling a business would require more. With guidance from the UGA SBDC, iS3 has grown into a thriving security technology firm protecting mission critical facilities across the Southeast. Read how the right partnership helped turn vision into lasting impact.
Through strategic guidance from the UGA SBDC, senior care entrepreneurs Ciera and Arthur Raven grew a startup into a multi county employer, increased revenue by 400% and completed a successful business sale. Their journey demonstrates the impact of sustained small business support in Georgia’s communities.
Big growth often starts with the right partner. For hotel owner Neil Patel, the UGA SBDC provided the insights and financial expertise that allowed him to secure funding, renovate aging properties and expand across Georgia. Discover the full story behind his remarkable journey.
What started as a weekend bagel buggy is now a thriving NYC-style bagel shop in Chamblee. With guidance from the UGA Small Business Development Center, Bronx Bagel Buggy grew from farmers markets to a $1.2M business and earned the title of “Best Bagel in Georgia for two years in a row.
Navigating international trade is complex even for experienced exporters. Atlanta-based Garson & Shaw, a global supplier of secondhand clothing, partnered with the UGA SBDC to strengthen compliance, expand market intelligence, and build connections that support sustainable commerce worldwide.
When an unexpected opportunity to buy a business landed in Trey Neely’s lap, he had the technical skills—but not the know-how to navigate a complex acquisition. With guidance from the UGA SBDC, Neely turned that challenge into a success story, growing his company by 43% and doubling its workforce in just two years.
Dustin Mullis turned his dream of owning a Zaxbys® franchise into a multi-store operation generating millions in revenue and employing over 300 people. With expert guidance from the UGA SBDC, Mullis navigated site selection, financing, and strategic growth—ultimately selling seven stores and launching a new location.
Rally Point Grille isn’t just serving meals, it’s serving a mission. Learn how Marine veterans Ralph and Carrie Roeger turned their vision into a thriving, multi-location business that honors service and fosters connection. With strategic guidance from the UGA SBDC, they’ve grown their impact and expanded across Georgia.
Darius Thomas, founder of Atlanta-based Dynamic Therapy, turned a local speech-language pathology practice into a multi-state operation with help from the UGA SBDC. Through expert financial planning, marketing strategy, and workforce development support, Thomas more than doubled his revenue and grown his team from six to 26 employees.
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