A group of people gathered together around a table. Utilize this page as a resource to connect and network with other entrepreneurs and small business owners in Georgia.

Connecting Georgia’s Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs

Networking is paramount to the success of small businesses. This is why Georgia aims to connect entrepreneurs around the state through mentoring, education and accommodating co-working and incubation centers that help foster a productive and welcoming work environment. Follow the links below to learn more about each organization.

Co-Working & Office Space

There are many accommodating spots around our state for entrepreneurs to meet and connect with new ideas, opportunities, and possibilities. These spots come in the form of co-working offices, concierge services, makerspaces, high-tech and low-tech incubation centers, and cafes.

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Mentoring and Education 

There are many resources for mentoring and education programs that can help Georgia entrepreneurs and small-business owners. Whether you’re just getting started and you need access to free educational resources or your business is well-established and you’re ready to invest in consulting services, Georgia has all of its bases covered.

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The Georgia Association of Business Brokers

This is the largest group of business brokers in the state that combines forces with professional lawyers, bankers, consultants and business coaches who oversee the purchase and sale of businesses or franchises. GABB is a nonprofit organization that works with business owners across the entire state.

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Get Small Business Certified

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Certification

The Cybersecurity EDGE

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Women

We are proud to rank No. 5 in the U.S. for the greatest number of female-owned firms. Explore the resources and opportunities we have specifically for our women entrepreneurs.

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Minorities

Get certified as a Minority Business Enterprise, and you’ll open the door to all kinds of new opportunities, resources and services. We’ll direct you to the right partners to begin the process.

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Youth

Are you an entrepreneur under the age of 18? Georgia has special resources and opportunities available to help you start, grow and expand your business in the state and beyond.

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Veterans

Our veterans are an integral part of Georgia’s businesses and communities. Explore the numerous resources and services available to our men and women in uniform.

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Quick Links

International? Start a Small Business in Georgia
2016 Georgia Small Business Rock Stars Photo Gallery
Women-Owned Small Businesses
Minority-Owned Small Businesses

Resources

Youth-Oriented Resources
Georgia Small Business Vertical Logo
Georgia Small Business Horizontal Logo
Entrepreneur Communities
Mentoring and Education
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Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any business assistance available in my area?

The Georgia Small Business Development Center provides a wide range of educational services for small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs that can help you get started.

Try these additional resources:
Georgia Small Business Development Center

How can I find a business mentor?

As a Georgia entrepreneur, there are many resources for mentoring and education programs that can help you and your small business. Get a list of options we recommend from the link below.

Try these additional resources:
Mentoring and Education
Connect with women business owners
Connect with minority business owners
Learn about youth-oriented programs

How do I start a franchise?

FranNet provides resources for everything franchise and can help expand your business through franchising, one of the most profitable business models in the world.

Try these additional resources:
FranNet
Grow My Small Business

What does it mean to be WBE or MBE certified?

WBE (Women Business Enterprise) Certification means that a woman (or women) has a majority ownership and control of a business entity. And the MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) Certification means that a minority (or minorities) has a majority ownership and control of a business entity.

Try these additional resources:
WBE Certification
MBE Certification

What types of special programs are available for youth entrepreneurs?

School programs or certification courses at Georgia’s technical colleges offer youth entrepreneurship and mentoring programs. You may also check your local chamber of commerce to learn of youth programs within your own community.

Try these additional resources:
Youth-oriented resources

What is Georgia’s definition of a Minority Business Enterprise and are women included in that definition?

Women are included only if they are a member of a minority race. The following groups are considered minority:

  • African American
  • Asian American
  • Native American
  • Pacific Islander
  • Hispanic/Latino
How do we create an entrepreneurial culture?

The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) provides a community-based program that helps create an entrepreneur environment, building entrepreneur and small business strategy into the community’s overall economic development strategies. These best practices offer more insight into Georgia’s communities’ efforts. 

Try these additional resources:
Community Initiatives Best Practices
 

How can I market my business to state government?

The Georgia Procurement Registry offers a list of Agency Procurement Officers (APOs). You may also contact the Georgia Department of Administrative Services (DOAS) Vendor Relations Administrator at 404-657-6000.

Try these additional resources:
List of Agency Procurement Officers (APOs)

How can I market my business to the federal government?

The Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center provides assistance with any procurement efforts that may be local, state or federal.

Try these additional resources:
Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center

How do I learn about who received an award?

Competitive opportunities awarded to companies, award amount and complete specifications are posted on the DOAS State Purchasing Web site.

Try these additional resources:
DOAS State Purchasing Web site

How can I obtain a list of minority registered vendors in the state of Georgia?

Find a complete list of minority registered vendors is available from the Georgia Department of Administrative Services Vendor Registration System. Click on the category for Agencies, and use the search feature to locate the registered vendors.

Try these additional resources:
Georgia Department of Administrative Services Vendor Registration System

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