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Invest Atlanta News

Making an Impact on Atlanta

Scroll down to see the impact and stories of people and places supported through Invest Atlanta programs.

 

2024 At A Glance

4,133

New Jobs Created (Business Attraction and Expansion)

$1.05B

Total Capital Investment

$1.85B

Total Economic Impact

1,556

Affordable Housing Units Financed (Multifamily)

365

Homeownership Incentives (Downpayment Assistance, Owner-Occupied Rehab and Tax Relief)

1,578

Small Businesses Supported (Grants, Loans and Technical Assistance)

 

See What We’ve Been Up To

{"result":[{"id":552,"title":"Grocery Grants Bring Fresh, Healthy Food to More Atlantans","promo_title":"Grocery Grants Bring Fresh, Healthy Food to More Atlantans","published_date":"2024-12-20","featured_image":{"id":2756,"parent_id":177,"resource_file_name":"img_1612.jpeg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":2138719,"resource_updated_at":"2025-02-06T13:50:06.819-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2025-02-06T13:50:06.925-05:00","updated_at":"2025-02-12T09:12:09.330-05:00","filename_hash":"img_1612_lP7LjYQ.jpeg","width":4032,"height":3024},"filename":"grocery-grants-bring-fresh-healthy-food-to-more-atlantans","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"9ahNFQ","created_at":"2025-02-06T13:50:29.067-05:00","updated_at":"2025-02-12T09:12:09.300-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board has awarded $50,000 grants to 15 innovative grocery store owners and operator grantees to increase fresh food access in underserved neighborhoods across Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board has awarded $50,000 grants to 15 innovative grocery store owners and operator grantees to increase fresh food access in underserved neighborhoods across Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe grants are part of the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s food access strategy designed to empower communities, ignite change and create lasting impact through nutritious food access. They were awarded through the Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG) program created within the Wells Fargo Atlanta Open for Business Fund in partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;These grants will not only strengthen our small business community but also help to break down barriers that have historically excluded low-income neighborhoods from healthy options,\u0026rdquo; says Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, who also serves as chair of the Invest Atlanta Board. \u0026ldquo;Investing in businesses that increase fresh, affordable food options in more Atlanta neighborhoods is yet another way we are building healthier communities where all residents can thrive.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Darlene Goins, head of philanthropy and community impact at Wells Fargo, small businesses often start because there\u0026rsquo;s a need in the community. \u0026ldquo;With our funding, Wells Fargo wants to help small business thrive,\u0026rdquo; she says. \u0026ldquo;It is especially gratifying to see how the city has embraced these small businesses stepping into the grocery store gap so they can offer greater accessibility to healthy food and meet the needs of the neighborhood.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe grants were awarded through a competitive process that evaluated each organization\u0026#39;s ability to create sustainable solutions for improving food access. In addition to funding, the grantees will receive ongoing support, resources and technical assistance provided through the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA) to help optimize supply chain processes and increase access to affordable healthy food for the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGrant recipients include:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eKosher Guacamole Corp\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eSevananda Cooperative, Inc.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003ePyramid Grocery\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eWadada Natural Foods \u0026amp; Juice Bar, Inc.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eHalal Madina Market 2024\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eFruits Veggies \u0026amp; Herbs\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eFrazie\u0026#39;s Market\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eLee Street Meats \u0026amp; Grocery\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eWestview Corner Grocery\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eNourish + Bloom Market\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eLittle\u0026#39;s Food Store\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eBuy Low\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eRhinehart Farmer\u0026#39;s Market\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eFocused Community Strategies\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eThe Guild Collective\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith 14% of Atlantans being food insecure, Invest Atlanta, City leadership and grant recipients are together cultivating a future where everyone has access to healthy food options with sustainable solutions.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are incredibly excited to support these passionate organizations that are making a real difference in their communities,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;By fostering collaboration between communities, policymakers and organizations, we are setting the bar to ensure everyone has the opportunity to thrive.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":547,"title":"Building Personal Wealth and Strengthening Communities: The Power of Invest Atlanta’s Open for Business Fund","promo_title":"Building Personal Wealth and Strengthening Communities: The Power of Invest Atlanta’s Open for Business Fund","published_date":"2024-12-10","featured_image":{"id":2724,"parent_id":173,"resource_file_name":"building.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":68929,"resource_updated_at":"2024-12-10T13:06:55.811-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-12-10T13:06:55.832-05:00","updated_at":"2024-12-10T15:36:13.189-05:00","filename_hash":"building_zyE6mBD.jpg","width":453,"height":677},"filename":"building-personal-wealth-and-strengthening-communities-the-power-of-invest-atlantas-open-for-business-fund","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"8C36qw","created_at":"2024-12-10T13:08:00.125-05:00","updated_at":"2024-12-10T15:36:13.179-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Open for Business Fund is reshaping the future of minority-owned businesses in metro Atlanta. Backed by a generous $20 million donation from Wells Fargo, in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta, the fund supports small business owners in building wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment, and technology.\u0026nbsp;\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eInvest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Open for Business Fund is reshaping the future of minority-owned businesses in metro Atlanta. Backed by a generous $20 million donation from Wells Fargo, in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta, the fund supports small business owners in building wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment, and technology.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThrough this grant, entrepreneurs received critical funding, guidance and support, enabling them to develop products and services that serve their local communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAiskrimu Ice Cream: Creating a Sweet Community Impact\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eFor entrepreneur and physical therapist Jason Davis, opening up an ice cream shop meant fulfilling a life-long dream. Ice cream has always been a love of Jason\u0026rsquo;s as it serves as a comfort food that you can enjoy with family and friends any day or every day. Seeing a gap in his area for a nearby dessert destination, Jason partnered with Open for Business to create \u003ca href=\"https://aiskrimuicecreambar.com\"\u003eAiskrimu Ice Cream Bar\u003c/a\u003e (which means ice cream in Swahili) in Cascade Heights.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eJason\u0026rsquo;s journey began in March 2020 when he started researching locations for his shop and found a clothing boutique that would work perfectly. After signing up for Invest Atlanta emails, he came across the Open for Business program and immediately applied in spring of 2022. Jason became a recipient of The Atlanta Open for Business Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG), receiving $38,000 to bring the space up to code and renovate the location into a welcoming and bright community spot for people and their pets.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eIn reflecting on the one-year anniversary of Aiskrimu, Jason is humbled by the success of his business. Aiskrimu is projected to double sales and the team has now expanded with the addition of one\u0026nbsp;full-time employee and one\u0026nbsp;part-time employee. Additional enhancements like new equipment (including an upright freezer) to sell cakes and pints along with an expanded menu are ensuring more patrons can enjoy all that Askrimu has to offer.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eThere is great pride in opening a dessert spot in a food desert, all of which wouldn\u0026rsquo;t be possible without support from the Open for Business program. Jason shared,\u0026ldquo;I can\u0026#39;t reiterate enough how thankful I am to have been a recipient of the OFB Grant. It lifted a huge burden off of my shoulders. I was able to focus on growth rather than worrying about financial strains.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCity Dogz: Pawsitive and Secure Pet Boarding and Daycare\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eAzhia Brown is a local change maker. A dog lover and young entrepreneur, Azhia saw a gap during the pandemic for safe and secure doggie daycare and boarding in her community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003eRight before 2020, she launched her business \u003ca href=\"https://citydogzatl.com/\"\u003eCity Dogz ATL\u003c/a\u003e, a unique boutique dog grooming and boarding facility. The opening of her business not only offered community members a trustworthy location for their pets to play and a space for pet owners to connect with one another, it also engaged individuals in the area looking for employment. After opening and feeling the challenges of many first time business owners, she found Invest Atlanta and applied for the the Atlanta Open for Business Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG).\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFast forward to today and City Dogz has created jobs and a safe outdoor space for pets in an urban area thanks to support from Open for Business. The funds helped Azhia\u0026nbsp;scale the business by transforming a parking lot into a secured area for dogs. This upgrade has tripled the number of dogs they can accommodate daily\u0026mdash;from a maximum of seven\u0026nbsp;to up to 25.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAdditionally, the grant funded mixed-use container spaces for better organization and storage, which has streamlined their operations. With this growth, Azhia has expanded her team, now employing four\u0026nbsp;full-time and two\u0026nbsp;part-time staff members. She\u0026rsquo;s also committed to involving the community, focusing on hiring local talent and creating job opportunities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eReflecting on her progress, Azhia is so grateful for the Open for Business Fund, sharing,\u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta is such a great resource for small businesses. In an area that needs redevelopment, having support helps individuals like me explore and encourages growth. It is important to be involved in the community we serve and Invest Atlanta made that happen for us!\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":541,"title":"Marketing Tech Maven: Cold Mountain Consulting","promo_title":"Marketing Tech Maven: Cold Mountain Consulting","published_date":"2024-10-01","featured_image":{"id":2709,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"img_7734.jpeg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":126348,"resource_updated_at":"2024-10-01T14:53:32.465-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-10-01T14:53:32.484-04:00","updated_at":"2024-10-01T14:54:04.591-04:00","filename_hash":"img_7734_4BjZeBx.jpeg","width":599,"height":799},"filename":"marketing-tech-maven-cold-mountain-consulting","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"uvouqQ","created_at":"2024-10-01T14:54:04.582-04:00","updated_at":"2024-10-01T14:54:04.582-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u003ca href=\"https://coldmtconsulting.com/\"\u003eCold Mountain Consulting\u003c/a\u003e founder and CEO Olivia Rios is the definition of perseverance. After partnering with law firms on marketing technology for more than a decade, Olivia felt the now-or-never pull in 2019 to launch her own consulting company.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://coldmtconsulting.com/\"\u003eCold Mountain Consulting\u003c/a\u003e founder and CEO Olivia Rios is the definition of perseverance. After partnering with law firms on marketing technology for more than a decade, Olivia felt the now-or-never pull in 2019 to launch her own consulting company.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eA Latina woman-owned business, Cold Mountain Consulting provides analysis and solutions for legal marketing technology challenges. With momentum building, Olivia had her eye on a brick-and-mortar location, until the pandemic hit the pause button. Olivia instead found herself exploring grant options and resources to keep her business afloat.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe months that followed brought the hope needed to boost her confidence. During her search, Olivia secured a woman-owned business certification and received a handful of small grants, including a Red Backpack Fund grant from Sarah Blakely. She remained determined.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;As an entrepreneur, there are days that you question everything,\u0026rdquo; says Olivia. \u0026ldquo;I was making strides and knew I had to keep going!\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs she continued her efforts to grow Cold Mountain Consulting, Olivia discovered Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/startups-creatives/womens-entrepreneurship-initiative\"\u003eWomen Entrepreneurship Institute (WEI)\u003c/a\u003e in early 2023. After being accepted into the program, she attended a WEI event and heard about Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e, designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a generous donation of $20 million from Wells Fargo to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOlivia immediately applied for the Commercial Down Payment Assistance Loan Program, which offers low-interest financing to help existing business owners in Atlanta purchase commercial property.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The people at Invest Atlanta were so incredible,\u0026rdquo; shares Olivia. \u0026ldquo;The team kept checking in on me to see what I needed. They just showed up!\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOlivia secured a $250,000 loan, which allowed her to put a down payment on a historic commercial property on Marietta Street and close in 30 days.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Part of our mission at Cold Mountain Consulting is to empower the community, which we are now able to do by inviting partners to utilize our space for educational events for women, Latinos and other community members,\u0026rdquo; says Olivia. \u0026ldquo;We wouldn\u0026rsquo;t be in the space or position we\u0026rsquo;re in without the support of Invest Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":539,"title":"Mercer Street Meals: From Home Kitchen to Commercial Success","promo_title":"Mercer Street Meals: From Home Kitchen to Commercial Success","published_date":"2024-09-12","featured_image":{"id":2705,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"img_6969.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1792437,"resource_updated_at":"2024-09-12T13:02:05.226-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-09-12T13:02:05.398-04:00","updated_at":"2024-09-12T13:02:30.040-04:00","filename_hash":"img_6969_mJq6r1P.jpg","width":5712,"height":4284},"filename":"mercer-street-meals-from-home-kitchen-to-commercial-success","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"oTK68A","created_at":"2024-09-12T12:59:14.110-04:00","updated_at":"2024-09-12T13:02:30.032-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mercer Street Meals recently made a significant leap forward thanks to Invest Atlanta\u0026#39;s Open for Business Fund. The funding enabled the business to transition from a home kitchen to a fully equipped commercial kitchen.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMercer Street Meals recently made a significant leap forward thanks to Invest Atlanta\u0026#39;s Open for Business Fund. The funding enabled the business to transition from a home kitchen to a fully equipped commercial kitchen.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e aims to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in crucial assets like commercial space, equipment, and technology. Supported by a generous $20 million donation from Wells Fargo and in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta, this fund has been instrumental in enabling businesses like Mercer Street Meals to grow and thrive.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBefore the inception of Mercer Street Meals, owners Lance and Gracie Gummere were no strangers to the food industry. They previously managed a restaurant that served breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week. This hectic lifestyle left little room for family or downtime. Now, with Mercer Street Meals, the Gummeres have found a more balanced approach. Their new business operates five nights a week with an additional breakfast service on Sundays, allowing them to enjoy a more controlled and family-oriented lifestyle.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMercer Street Meals was born during the COVID-19 pandemic when neighbors, aware of Lance\u0026rsquo;s professional chef background, approached him for home-cooked meals. With restaurants closed and Lance out of work, he agreed - and what started as a service for neighbors on Mercer Street gradually expanded to the entire neighborhood.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRecognizing the challenge in providing a nutritious meal after a long workday, Mercer Street Meals specializes in pre-order, ready-made and high-quality meals. \u0026ldquo;We are committed to providing good, nutritious meals at an affordable price, making everyday life a little easier for busy families,\u0026rdquo; Gracie tells us.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith support from Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Atlanta Recovery Loan, Lance and Gracie renovated a commercial space they found in their neighborhood, as it was important for them to stay close to their customer base. They recently marked one year at their new space and are thrilled to continue to serve the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRunning a small business comes with its own set of challenges, the most significant being competition with larger brands. \u0026ldquo;We have been fortunate to attract customers who specifically seek out local, independent eateries,\u0026rdquo; Lance explains.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta\u0026#39;s Open for Business Fund proved to be a perfect match for Mercer Street Meals. The funding provided the assistance needed to establish a commercial kitchen and significantly reduce the financial burden of launching a new small business.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more or place an order, visit \u003ca href=\"https://www.mercerstreetmeals.com/order\"\u003ehttps://www.mercerstreetmeals.com/order\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":533,"title":"Grant Opportunity Supports Access to Fresh Food","promo_title":"Grant Opportunity Supports Access to Fresh Food","published_date":"2024-07-26","featured_image":{"id":2003,"parent_id":7,"resource_file_name":"cpig_mantle.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":436323,"resource_updated_at":"2022-07-25T13:03:14.630-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-07-25T13:03:15.336-04:00","updated_at":"2024-07-29T16:36:54.984-04:00","filename_hash":"cpig_mantle_j3DlByW.png","width":984,"height":360},"filename":"grant-opportunity-supports-access-to-fresh-food","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"WLoXMw","created_at":"2024-07-29T12:48:41.163-04:00","updated_at":"2024-07-29T16:36:54.962-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta has launched a $750,000 grant opportunity for grocery store owners looking to make internal and external improvements to their commercial properties. The grant program provides up to $50,000 per project and is an expansion of the existing \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/commercial-property-improvement-grant\"\u003eCommercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG)\u003c/a\u003e.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has launched a $750,000 grant opportunity for grocery store owners looking to make internal and external improvements to their commercial properties. The grant opportunity provides up to $50,000 per project and is an expansion of the existing \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/commercial-property-improvement-grant\"\u003eCommercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG)\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The fresh food access grant program is a way for our Administration to develop community partnerships to ensure access to fresh, nutritious food to all of Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; says Mayor Andre Dickens. \u0026ldquo;In addition to closing the food access gap, these grants can help independent grocers expand and create jobs, become more energy efficient, enhance their property and a variety of added benefits for the surrounding neighborhoods.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eQualified grocery businesses selling fresh food may use grant funds to maintain or expand properties with eligible expenses. These include fa\u0026ccedil;ade enhancements, interior renovations, energy-efficient upgrades and other modifications that contribute to a more inviting and functional shopping environment. Grocery operators can also access technical assistance provided through the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA) to help optimize supply chain processes and increase access to healthy, affordable food for the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, the opportunity grant goes beyond increasing access to fresh food, it also supports small businesses, creates jobs and improves retail infrastructure. \u0026ldquo;Access to fresh food is not just a privilege, but a fundamental right that impacts our health and well-being,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Klementich. \u0026ldquo;Alongside the City of Atlanta and our partners, we are working to ensure that investments to increase food access make a long-term, holistic impact on our communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG) was created within the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e, in partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta. The fund was made possible by a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo to help small business owners in Atlanta own more of their businesses\u0026rsquo; assets, including property and equipment.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor more information about the Commercial Property Improvement Grant and to apply, visit Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s website, \u003ca href=\"http://investatlanta.com/cpig\"\u003einvestatlanta.com/cpig\u003c/a\u003e. There is also a webinar recording that details the application process, eligibility requirements and program benefits. To learn more about Grocery Technical Assistance, watch \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFpZhQ5tQag\u0026amp;t=10s\"\u003eInvest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s informational session\u003c/a\u003e with IGA.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":530,"title":"From Big Tech to Big Community Impact","promo_title":"From Big Tech to Big Community Impact","published_date":"2024-07-10","featured_image":{"id":2672,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"mg0a31611.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1440247,"resource_updated_at":"2024-07-16T12:03:19.160-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-07-16T12:03:19.260-04:00","updated_at":"2024-08-06T12:26:13.222-04:00","filename_hash":"mg0a31611_k38bRke.jpg","width":3840,"height":3072},"filename":"from-big-tech-to-big-community-impact","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"9dyWaA","created_at":"2024-07-10T16:28:27.011-04:00","updated_at":"2024-08-06T12:26:13.196-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFor Dillon Moses, founder of Dillon Digitals, now operating as OceanViews AI, building a technology company goes hand in hand with building an inclusive community. As the leader of a Black-owned technology company leveraging data analysis and AI, Dillon embodies the belief that technology is a multiplier for good. His journey highlights the potential to transform gaps into opportunities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDillon began his career as a technology consultant, working with organizations like US Bank, where he honed his skills identifying data patterns to solve complex problems. In 2012, he launched Dillon Digital to combat a troubling trend: technology often exacerbates income inequality. His goal is to break these barriers and provide unbiased AI data analyst insights.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Our mission is to find ways for technology to positively impact society,\u0026rdquo; said Dillon.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDillon knew he needed alternative funding sources to grow his business because underrepresented entrepreneurs receive less than 2% of Venture Capital funding. An opportunity came his way when he learned about Atlanta Open for Business through a colleague who attended an Invest Atlanta networking event. Learning about Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s involvement in the start-up community excited Dillon as he viewed the organization as a bridge to help diversify Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s blossoming tech scene.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOceanviews AI was selected as the first Atlanta Start-up Growth Loan Program recipient and awarded $150,000. The funding, part of the Atlanta Open for Business Fund, provided a six-month runway to build and scale without the immediate pressure of repayment. Dillon used the funds to hire an additional software engineer and upgrade the company\u0026#39;s servers\u0026ndash;both critical investments to enable the development of advanced technology solutions, including AI, to expand the organization\u0026rsquo;s reach and impact.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e helps small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets, such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a donation of $20 million from \u003ca href=\"https://stories.wf.com/meaningful-investments-and-support-keep-small-business-doors-open/\"\u003eWells Fargo\u003c/a\u003e and in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This experience shows the power of collaborating with policy makers and leaders who can create these opportunities,\u0026rdquo; shared Dillon. \u0026ldquo;I am proud to be a program ambassador and hope to inspire more founders to take advantage of these resources.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about Oceanviews, visit \u003ca href=\"http://www.oceanviews.ai/\"\u003ewww.oceanviews.ai\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":523,"title":"Atlanta Open for Business Fund Making a Difference","promo_title":"Atlanta Open for Business Fund Making a Difference","published_date":"2024-05-29","featured_image":{"id":769,"parent_id":7,"resource_file_name":"campbellton_road_mantle.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2262514,"resource_updated_at":"2018-11-28T10:13:41.006-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":3,"created_at":"2018-11-28T10:13:41.139-05:00","updated_at":"2025-01-27T12:54:55.568-05:00","filename_hash":"campbellton_road_mantle_oMJewEN.png","width":1800,"height":689},"filename":"atlanta-open-for-business-fund-making-a-difference","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Ak4_1A","created_at":"2024-05-29T15:51:18.556-04:00","updated_at":"2024-06-04T16:27:47.725-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n In the heart of Atlanta\u0026#39;s bustling economic landscape lies Invest Atlanta: a hub for small businesses navigating the city\u0026#39;s competitive landscape. One of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s programs, the Atlanta Open for Business Fund, is making a difference.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta is often said to be the economic epicenter of the Southeast. The city boasts a multifaceted economy, corporate giants, film studios and the world\u0026#39;s busiest airport. While many notice the growth in these large corporations, small businesses are also a thriving network, comprising nearly 15,000 enterprises, many of which are Black-owned\u0026mdash;a testament to Atlanta\u0026#39;s diverse entrepreneurial spirit.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn the heart of Atlanta\u0026#39;s bustling economic landscape lies Invest Atlanta: a hub for small businesses navigating the city\u0026#39;s competitive landscape. One of Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s programs, the \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e, is making a difference.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs we conclude Small Business Month, the spotlight turns to how this program is making a big impact on small businesses in the city. In 2022, Wells Fargo made a $20 million philanthropic investment into the city, through partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta, to help grow small businesses. Since launching two years ago, nearly $9 million has been provided in grants, loans and technical assistance.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;Atlanta is a great city, but there remains a significant wealth gap. Part of closing that gap is helping small businesses thrive long term with greater access to capital and expertise,\u0026rdquo; emphasizes Senior Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Impact at Wells Fargo Tai Roberson.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Public-private partnerships that support minority businesses play a big role in increasing economic equity in Atlanta. According to national averages, 35 percent of white business owners received all the financing they applied for, compared to 16 percent of Black business owners. The Atlanta Open for Business Fund is helping to level that playing field,\u0026rdquo; added Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Open for Business has not only provided financial assistance to local businesses\u0026ndash;it has also served as a catalyst for tangible change. To date, more than 200 small businesses have been supported through four different funds and technical assistance services.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/atlanta-recovery-loan-program\"\u003eAtlanta Recovery Loan Fund\u003c/a\u003e: 58 loans closed since inception, $4,826,000 invested\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/commercial-property-improvement-grant\"\u003eCommercial Property Improvement Grant\u003c/a\u003e: 51 grants closed, $2,409,050 invested\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/commercial-down-payment-assistance\"\u003eCommercial Down Payment Assistance Program\u003c/a\u003e: 5 loans closed, $1,165,000 invested\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/atlanta-startup-growth-program\"\u003eAtlanta Startup Growth Loan\u003c/a\u003e: 5 loans closed, $576,500 invested\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://atlinbusiness.com/atlanta-open-for-business-fund/\"\u003eTechnical Assistance\u003c/a\u003e: 169 businesses, 1,487 hours of technical assistance provided\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e85.6% of OFB businesses funded are minority-owned businesses\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e78.8% of OFB businesses funded are Black-owned businesses\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003e66% of OFB funded businesses are women-owned businesses\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s small businesses are the lifeblood of our city\u0026rsquo;s vibrant economy. Through initiatives like the Atlanta Open for Business Fund, we are not just investing in businesses, but in the future of children, families and communities,\u0026rdquo; says \u003ca href=\"https://unitedwayatlanta.org/\"\u003eUnited Way of Greater Atlanta\u003c/a\u003e President and CEO Milton J. Little, Jr.\u0026nbsp;\u0026ldquo;These efforts support United Way\u0026rsquo;s Child Well-Being Agenda and are essential in closing the wealth gap to ensure that all entrepreneurs, especially minority and women-owned businesses, have the opportunity to thrive. The success of this program underscores the impact of public-private partnerships and community support in fostering economic equity and resilience in our city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Open for Business is more than numbers. At the heart of our success are the people whose lives have been touched and their businesses forever changed. This program is not only about funds but also about the power and pride of community support.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eParis Stewart, owner of Tall Towers and recipient of the Commercial Property Improvement Grant shares, \u0026quot;I have learned so much about my business. The money helped me rebuild my building\u0026mdash;floors, electrical infrastructure. You are going to get more than funds. You are going to get a support system.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGinny Hodges McLendon, Senior Consultant with the Wells Fargo Foundation remarks, \u0026quot;As we enter into the last year of the program, we are excited to see what type of groundwork this investment has made to strengthen the small business community over the long term. It will go well beyond this three-year and $20 million investment, with life-changing wins for small businesses as we move forward together.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn a city teeming with opportunities, Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Open for Business Fund stands as a testament to the power of community, collaboration and unwavering commitment. As Small Business Month unfolds, let us celebrate not just the numbers, but the stories of resilience, innovation and a true testament to the enduring spirit of Atlanta\u0026#39;s small business community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":519,"title":"Koncept House: Opening Doors and Spaces for Local Atlanta Entrepreneurs","promo_title":"Koncept House: Opening Doors and Spaces for Local Atlanta Entrepreneurs","published_date":"2024-04-18","featured_image":{"id":2623,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"anthony-5.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":4717903,"resource_updated_at":"2024-04-18T12:01:39.532-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-04-18T12:01:41.254-04:00","updated_at":"2024-04-18T12:02:55.825-04:00","filename_hash":"anthony-5_NZokDj5.jpg","width":2670,"height":4000},"filename":"koncept-house-opening-doors-and-spaces-for-local-atlanta-entrepreneurs","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"tiveMg","created_at":"2024-04-18T12:02:51.679-04:00","updated_at":"2024-04-18T12:02:51.679-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n For Koncept House founder Anthony Gee, entrepreneurship is a family tradition.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFor Koncept House founder Anthony Gee, entrepreneurship is a family tradition. Gee watched his mother build her own salon when he was a young boy, which instilled lifelong lessons that would go on to serve him\u0026nbsp;in powerful ways. Koncept House in Castleberry Hill embodies this legacy of supporting others, serving as a nontraditional co-working space that provides flexible, creative environments for entrepreneurs. Koncept House partners with 28 entrepreneurs\u0026ndash;a majority of which are Black female creators\u0026ndash;who offer a range of services and products from skincare to coffee, vitamins and more.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFollowing the opening of Koncept House in 2019, Gee saw more and more growth but not enough spaces to accommodate burgeoning entrepreneurs. \u0026ldquo;As the waitlist of entrepreneurs kept growing, I knew there was a demand for a second location of Koncept House,\u0026rdquo; Gee says.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHaving a different business model, he knew they needed a different type of funding partner.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Financing is challenging because people don\u0026rsquo;t understand our market,\u0026rdquo; he explains \u0026ldquo;If you are a bank you don\u0026rsquo;t want to back a place with a bunch of small companies. It isn\u0026rsquo;t traditional coworking. Our business model is very different.\u0026rdquo; This led him to search for a less traditional funding source--one he found in the Atlanta Open for Business Fund - \u003ca href=\"http://investatlanta.com/cdpa\"\u003eCommercial Down Payment Assistance Program\u003c/a\u003e (CDPA).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCDPA offers low-interest financing to assist existing business owners in the city of Atlanta with purchasing commercial property. Through this program, Gee and his team were able to receive the guidance and financial support needed to make their dream of a second location a reality.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a generous donation of $20 million from Wells Fargo and in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe impact of the Atlanta Open for Business Fund on Koncept House will reverberate for years to come. Through CDPA, Koncept House\u0026rsquo;s new location on the Beltline will house 15-18 entrepreneurs and provide them the space and support needed to take their next steps in fulfilling their entrepreneurial goals.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eExplore \u003ca href=\"https://www.koncepthouse.com/\"\u003eKoncept House\u003c/a\u003e to learn more about their incredible entrepreneurs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":515,"title":"Wadada: Serving Up Healthy Living and Hospitality in Atlanta ","promo_title":"Wadada: Serving Up Healthy Living and Hospitality in Atlanta ","published_date":"2024-03-13","featured_image":{"id":2604,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"headshot_wadada_backdrop.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":4662043,"resource_updated_at":"2024-03-13T12:04:18.143-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-03-13T12:04:18.954-04:00","updated_at":"2024-04-02T14:52:25.006-04:00","filename_hash":"headshot_wadada_backdrop_g3Dqaoe.png","width":1522,"height":1908},"filename":"wadada-serving-up-healthy-living-and-hospitality-in-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Pw91HQ","created_at":"2024-03-13T12:04:51.316-04:00","updated_at":"2024-04-02T14:52:24.924-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Jeanette Sellers is the proud owner of Wadada Healthy Market \u0026amp; Juice Bar, Atlanta\u0026#39;s first black-owned and woman-owned vegan grocery store and juice bar.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eJeanette Sellers is the proud owner of Wadada Healthy Market \u0026amp; Juice Bar, Atlanta\u0026#39;s first Black-owned and woman-owned vegan grocery store and juice bar.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOpened in March of 2019, Wadada is located in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s historic West End. Alongside fresh produce and herbs, Wadada provides superfood sea moss smoothies, fresh-pressed juices, organic teas and sea moss gel. More than 90 percent of the store\u0026rsquo;s products and vendors are other local Black-owned businesses. Wadada\u0026rsquo;s mission: to serve and support the local community while being a partner in your health journey.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHaving heard about the \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e from various sources, Jeanette contacted Invest Atlanta\u0026nbsp;regarding a Commercial Property Improvement Grant. \u0026ldquo;Thanks to the grant I received, I was able to enhance my business with new flooring, lighting, mural/artwork and painting,\u0026rdquo; says Jeanette.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe grant, made possible from a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo and in collaboration with United Way of Greater Atlanta, helps Atlanta small business owners own more of their businesses\u0026rsquo; assets, including property and equipment, and enables physical upgrades to their facilities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWhat started out as foundational support expanded quickly into the Atlanta Open for Business Fund team offering additional guidance, including accounting and financial advice through consulting services with \u003ca href=\"http://www.atlinbusiness.com/\"\u003eATLinBusiness\u003c/a\u003e. \u0026ldquo;The team went beyond the scope of the project,\u0026quot; says Jeanette, \u0026quot;They were happy to help in any way they could.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWhen asked if she would advise others to consider a grant opportunity with Atlanta Open for Business Fund, Jeanette enthusiastically replied: GO FOR IT.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs a result, Jeanette is able to deliver an enhanced experience to Wadada\u0026rsquo;s target audience of health conscious consumers, fitness community members, and students. \u0026ldquo;Engaging the Atlanta Open for Business Fund helped my business tremendously,\u0026rdquo; said Jeanette. \u0026ldquo;I walked away with information and resources that I really needed. Everyone was super helpful and professional. You can\u0026rsquo;t take it for granted!\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLearn more about Wadada at \u003ca href=\"https://www.wadadaatl.com/\"\u003ewww.wadadaatl.com/\u003c/a\u003e. Follow along on Instagram @wadada_atl.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003chr /\u003e\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a generous donation of $20 million from Wells Fargo in partnership with United Way of Greater Atlanta to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n West End\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":508,"title":"Co-Working Collaboration","promo_title":"Co-Working Collaboration","published_date":"2024-01-08","featured_image":{"id":2537,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"a_chiropractic_hub.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":157941,"resource_updated_at":"2024-01-08T16:22:12.546-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-01-08T16:22:13.281-05:00","updated_at":"2024-01-11T12:56:47.957-05:00","filename_hash":"a_chiropractic_hub_OzL7WN9.png","width":1556,"height":2000},"filename":"co-working-collaboration","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"DntM5A","created_at":"2024-01-08T16:22:29.258-05:00","updated_at":"2024-01-11T12:56:47.731-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Co-working spaces are popping up all over Atlanta, primarily in the business and textile industries. Two Atlanta doctors are changing that with \u003ca href=\"https://www.achirohub.com/\"\u003eA Chiropractic Hub\u003c/a\u003e. The Chiropractic Hub\u0026#39;s approach addresses a gap in the chiropractic field, providing a supportive environment for practitioners to thrive while enhancing access to care for the community.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCo-working spaces are popping up all over Atlanta, primarily in the business and textile industries. Two Atlanta doctors are changing that with \u003ca href=\"https://www.achirohub.com/\"\u003eA Chiropractic Hub\u003c/a\u003e. The Chiropractic Hub\u0026#39;s approach addresses a gap in the chiropractic field, providing a supportive environment for practitioners to thrive while enhancing access to care for the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This flexible (business model) really allows for doctors to focus on their skill and their practice as opposed to all of the parts of running a business,\u0026rdquo; explains co-owner Dr. Dara Geiger.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis medical office combines the talents and resources of chiropractors allowing them to practice and collaborate while delivering outstanding patient care. Doctors Mesiha Miller and Dara Geiger came up with the business idea as a solution to a growing problem. Miller explains that, after graduating, many chiropractors miss the opportunity for collaboration with others and there are challenges with finding the capital to start up a business. This way, chiropractors can focus on their specialty and build a patient base.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe financial support from the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund,\u003c/a\u003e particularly the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/atlanta-recovery-loan-program\"\u003eAtlanta Recovery Loan Program\u003c/a\u003e (ARLP), played a crucial role in helping the doctors realize their vision.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This gives them the freedom to focus on their skill and build their practice. Doctors can start on a small scale, on a budget and only do what they can afford until they pick up pace,\u0026rdquo; Dr. Meshia Miller further explains. \u0026ldquo;Once they have enough capital, they can stay with us or move on to open their own practice.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/atlanta-recovery-loan-program\"\u003eARLP\u003c/a\u003e funding enabled Miller and Geiger to set up their space \u0026ndash; from basic infrastructure like drywall and electrical work to purchasing necessary office furniture and fixtures. Without this financial assistance, the process of opening their practice would have been considerably delayed.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a donation of $20 million from \u003ca href=\"https://stories.wf.com/meaningful-investments-and-support-keep-small-business-doors-open/\"\u003eWells Fargo\u003c/a\u003e. The funds allowed them to move forward faster, thus more quickly allowing them to take care of patients.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Chiropractic Hub is holding its grand opening this month (January) and is ready to serve the needs of the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a generous donation of $20 million from Wells Fargo to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":503,"title":"Building on a Dream","promo_title":"Building on a Dream","published_date":"2023-11-28","featured_image":{"id":2524,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"image0.jpeg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":3691619,"resource_updated_at":"2023-11-28T13:21:27.163-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-11-28T13:21:28.031-05:00","updated_at":"2023-11-28T13:22:00.769-05:00","filename_hash":"image0_53oVyZP.jpeg","width":5040,"height":3360},"filename":"building-on-a-dream","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"esmrZA","created_at":"2023-11-28T13:22:00.658-05:00","updated_at":"2023-11-28T13:22:00.658-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Shauniece Wallace launched The Elleven LLC in 2018 as a creative co-working space for barbers, nail technicians, and tattoo and makeup artists. As her business grew, so did her dreams.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eShauniece Wallace launched The Elleven LLC in 2018 as a creative co-working space for barbers, nail technicians, and tattoo and makeup artists. As her business grew, so did her dreams. Focused on creating a bigger footprint, Wallace saw a blank canvas opportunity in 2019 at a new location on Bishop Street. After securing the property, she had to navigate the challenges of 2020. Wallace took inspiration from female entrepreneurs \u0026ndash; including the first Black female millionaire Annie Malone \u0026ndash; who ignited a passion to grow her business and impact on local entrepreneurs but needed help making it a reality.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAfter hearing about Invest Atlanta as a resource from friends and her realtor, Wallace attended a few Invest Atlanta seminars on loan assistance to better understand available loan programs. Thanks to the \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/atlanta-recovery-loan-program\"\u003eAtlanta Recovery Loan Program\u003c/a\u003e, a low-interest loan through the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e, she is expanding \u0026ndash; including adding an event space.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a donation of $20 million from \u003ca href=\"https://welcome.wf.com/impact/\"\u003eWells Fargo\u003c/a\u003e to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This loan program has really saved my life,\u0026rdquo; Wallace explains. \u0026ldquo;I went through some personal hardships and it placed a bad cloud over my mental health. It was hard for me to balance being a mom and a business owner to many different entities here that are connected to other families; keeping everything afloat was very difficult.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe funds will also assist with fixing the parking lot, securing signage and ensuring suites are in excellent operational shape for the 12 entrepreneurs who share their talents in her space. Wallace says the client entrepreneurs are like family, making the need for additional funding a priority.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith funds now in place, she is focused on taking her business to the next level. Wallace is planning for growth with the addition of new fixtures, additional bars and more flexible floor plan layouts. From weddings to mitzvahs, many milestone events are being celebrated at the Elleven LLC. And all the suites are full.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe future looks bright for Wallace and the Elleven LLC. She gives much credit to the support received from the Atlanta Recovery Loan Fund for her evolving success.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It\u0026#39;s taking the time to get to know me as an individual and not just see me as a name on paperwork. Because sometimes people go through hardships\u0026hellip; but when you actually get a chance to meet them, feel their energy and be around the aura of their business, you can get a better feel for who they are. Thank you Open For Business, United Way and Wells Fargo for supporting me and my city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about Elleven LLC follow Wallace on Instagram \u003ca href=\"https://www.instagram.com/ellevenbeautyandbarberlofts/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet\u0026amp;igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==\"\u003e@ellevenbeautyandbarberlofts\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":501,"title":"New Loan Program Offers Boost to Startups","promo_title":"New Loan Program Offers Boost to Startups","published_date":"2023-10-25","featured_image":{"id":2477,"parent_id":7,"resource_file_name":"mantle.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":969535,"resource_updated_at":"2023-08-28T15:04:46.015-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2023-08-28T15:04:46.593-04:00","updated_at":"2023-10-26T12:00:24.141-04:00","filename_hash":"mantle_eWDqNR6.jpg","width":3917,"height":1500},"filename":"new-loan-program-offers-boost-to-startups","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ZasnJA","created_at":"2023-10-25T11:33:25.325-04:00","updated_at":"2023-10-26T12:00:24.066-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Through the Atlanta Startup Growth Loan Program (ASGL), Atlanta technology startups are eligible to apply for a direct loan of up to $150,000 to grow and scale their business and acquire new assets or update existing ones.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMetro Atlanta is home to more than 30 corporate innovation centers, making it the highest concentrated city of startups and innovators in the Southeast. These entrepreneurs now have access to a new $1 million loan program designed to support local technology startups as they work to get their businesses up and running.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThrough the Atlanta Startup Growth Loan Program (ASGL), Atlanta technology startups are eligible to apply for a direct loan of up to $150,000 to grow and scale their business and acquire new assets or update existing ones.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, Atlanta startups raised nearly $1.7 billion in funding last year alone, which was the second-highest amount of funding allocated to the city in recent years. \u0026ldquo;That speaks to the city\u0026rsquo;s ever-growing status as a technology epicenter,\u0026rdquo; says Dickens. \u0026ldquo;This new program and funding will further substantiate the strength of our tech ecosystem.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe ASGL Program is the fourth initiative, and first technology-focused program, that United Way of Greater Atlanta and Invest Atlanta have rolled out as a part of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e (OFB). The fund is made possible by a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo to help the owners of Atlanta small businesses own more of their businesses\u0026rsquo; assets \u0026ndash; including property and equipment \u0026ndash; scale and fund physical upgrades to their facilities. Invest Atlanta partnered with United Way to create OFB.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The Atlanta Startup Growth Loan Program nurtures innovation and empowers local entrepreneurs,\u0026rdquo; says Milton J. Little, Jr., president and CEO of United Way of Greater Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;By providing vital financial support to technology startups, we\u0026#39;re fostering a thriving ecosystem that will drive progress and opportunity in Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta is distributing the Atlanta Open for Business Fund as a mix of grants and loans with a focus on Black-owned and other diverse-owned businesses. In addition to the ASGL, the Atlanta Open for Business Fund supports three other programs, including:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eAtlanta Recovery Loan Program: Provides 3% interest loans to small businesses interested in acquiring tangible business assets.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eCommercial Property Improvement Grant: Provides grants for small businesses of up to $50,000 for exterior and interior enhancements to their business.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eAtlanta Commercial Down Payment Assistance Loan Program: Provides small businesses with direct loans of up to 20% of commercial property costs up to $200,000 to acquire commercial property.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, says support for technology startups is vital to the growth of the Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economy because they not only create jobs, but also increase the city\u0026rsquo;s competitiveness and often address an unmet need. \u0026ldquo;The Atlanta Startup Growth Loan Program will extend our reach and impact because we will be in a position to help eliminate funding as a barrier to their ability to grow,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Klementich.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eASGL loans can be used for technology, inventory, the purchase, or renovation of commercial space within the city of Atlanta, machinery and equipment, furniture, and fixtures, as well as signage, which can go a long way to helping startups.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Being able to acquire or upgrade these types of assets can be transformative for a small business, particularly those in the early stages,\u0026rdquo; says Jenny Flores, head of small business growth philanthropy at Wells Fargo. \u0026ldquo;With this program, we are being intentional about getting capital out to entrepreneurs in a way that drives growth for each small business but also the Atlanta economy.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about and apply for the Atlanta Startup Growth Loan Program, small business owners should visit \u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/startupgrowth\"\u003ewww.investatlanta.com/startupgrowth\u003c/a\u003e. Small businesses interested in the program may request assistance with their application through the Atlanta Open for Business Technical Assistance program by visiting \u003ca href=\"http://www.atlinbusiness.com/\"\u003ewww.atlinbusiness.com\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":500,"title":"The Kindred Healing Center: Nurturing Holistic Wellness in the Heart of Atlanta","promo_title":"The Kindred Healing Center: Nurturing Holistic Wellness in the Heart of Atlanta","published_date":"2023-10-23","featured_image":{"id":2516,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"4b1e7d7d-bf0a-40ad-92c7-a5c8c49f6004.jpeg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":141755,"resource_updated_at":"2023-10-23T14:34:06.391-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-10-23T14:34:07.096-04:00","updated_at":"2023-10-26T12:02:26.734-04:00","filename_hash":"4b1e7d7d-bf0a-40ad-92c7-a5c8c49f6004_y6kLyon.jpeg","width":680,"height":510},"filename":"the-kindred-healing-center-nurturing-holistic-wellness-in-the-heart-of-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"8XQI1A","created_at":"2023-10-23T14:35:33.078-04:00","updated_at":"2023-10-26T12:02:26.706-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Known as a haven of holistic wellness, the Kindred Healing Center found itself in the midst of this unprecedented storm \u0026hellip; but also found a silver lining in the form of opportunity.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Kindred Healing Center opened its doors to offer an ecosystem of services that address the mind, body\u0026nbsp;and spirit in a harmonious space. But the global pandemic of 2020 reshaped the landscape of business, forcing many to adapt quickly and resolutely. The Kindred Healing Center is one of those businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eKnown as a haven of holistic wellness, the Kindred Healing Center found itself in the midst of this unprecedented storm \u0026hellip; but also found a silver lining in the form of opportunity. The pandemic not only heightened the center\u0026rsquo;s commitment to the community, it also underscored the essential role holistic wellness can play in a time of crisis. The center\u0026rsquo;s services addressed the critical needs of those impacted during COVID and became a lifeline.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Being able to maintain and stay open [during COVID] was rough,\u0026rdquo; owner Yolanda Neals-Kindred explains.\u0026rdquo; I recognized we needed a way to streamline and catch up and to get financial support. And that is why we reached out to Invest Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYolanda and her co-owner and wife Dr. Rhonda Neals-Kindred found the help they needed through the \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e (OFB).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSupported by a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo, OFB is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. Moreover, OFB programs help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic to recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn Kindred Healing Center\u0026rsquo;s case, their OFB experience was two-fold. Not only did the business receive the \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/atlanta-recovery-loan-program\"\u003eAtlanta Recovery Loan\u003c/a\u003e, which it used for renovations and equipment; in the beginning of the loan application process, Yolanda was partnered with expert consultants through the Technical Assistance Program to guide her through every facet of applying for financial support.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYolanda\u0026rsquo;s consultant both assisted in the loan process and also played a crucial role in ensuring that Kindred Healing Center had everything it needed to succeed.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Without this help I really don\u0026rsquo;t think I\u0026#39;d be in the position that I am right now. Monique (Mills) helped me understand my own business even better. For that I am truly grateful,\u0026rdquo; she says. \u0026ldquo;I wasn\u0026rsquo;t focused on the world knowing who we were the first couple years. But now, I am confident about opening the doors to the world to show what we offer. Help from the Technical Assistance program has given me new confidence in the way we present ourselves to the world.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNext, the Kindred Healing Center is embarking on expansion. The foundation built during the pandemic\u0026#39;s early days has allowed the center to flourish and evolve, and its owners are now ready to increase its footprint, target specific wellness populations and share their deep understanding of the community\u0026#39;s changing needs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLearn more about the Kindred Healing Center by visiting their \u003ca href=\"https://www.kindredhealingcenter.com/\"\u003ewebsite\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":498,"title":"BBQ Done Right","promo_title":"BBQ Done Right","published_date":"2023-09-28","featured_image":{"id":2513,"parent_id":158,"resource_file_name":"das_bbq3_-002-.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":4295225,"resource_updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:46:28.418-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-09-28T10:46:28.768-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:46:49.550-04:00","filename_hash":"das_bbq3_-002-_53eD44P.png","width":2082,"height":1666},"filename":"bbq-done-right","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"FxQ9vw","created_at":"2023-09-28T10:46:49.528-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:46:49.528-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Determined to start a new chapter in life, the founder and pit master of \u003ca href=\"https://www.dasbbq.com/\"\u003eDAS BBQ\u003c/a\u003e leaned into his whole-hog-smoking-pig-picking roots to start a local joint on Collier Road with a vision to celebrate Georgia barbecue and contribute to his home state\u0026rsquo;s rich and creative culinary history.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eBeing fired from his dream job in the brand strategy and design business was just the impetus Stephen Franklin needed to find his true calling.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDetermined to start a new chapter in life, the founder and pit master of \u003ca href=\"https://www.dasbbq.com/\"\u003eDAS BBQ\u003c/a\u003e leaned into his whole-hog-smoking-pig-picking roots to start a local joint on Collier Road with a vision to celebrate Georgia barbecue and contribute to his home state\u0026rsquo;s rich and creative culinary history. Stephen opened a second location on Memorial Drive, which can only be described as BBQ with a vibe \u0026ndash; complete with games, live music and, of course, mouth-watering food.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Music and food are a human love language,\u0026rdquo; says Stephen. \u0026ldquo;Adding fire to the mix evokes something carnal in us. Something safe, maybe even sacred. We like to invoke that magic in people\u0026rsquo;s psyches every time we open our doors.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBackyard barbecues were the backdrop of Stephen\u0026rsquo;s childhood. His father, who is a dually certified and licensed barbecue judge with the Memphis In May and Kansas City BBQ Society organizations, taught Stephen the art of smoking turkey breasts in vertical barrel-smokers. Those custom smokers, which Stephen builds at the family farm, are what put DAS BBQ on a level all its own.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It requires a different level of dedication to wood procurement, fire management and human learning,\u0026rdquo; says Stephen. \u0026ldquo;We want to preserve the part of our barbecue lineage that requires grit and grind.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eStephen and his fellow pit master Jeremy Chambers both have deep Texas family roots, and the craft of smoking brisket comes directly from their Lone Star lineage. And, while the menu has something for everyone, DAS BBQ is known for that beef brisket and a side of cream corn \u0026ndash; a creamy, cheesy, jalape\u0026ntilde;o-infused corn that eats like a chowder and is often described as \u0026ldquo;dream corn.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDuring COVID-19, DAS BBQ was able to survive \u0026ndash; and thrive \u0026ndash; with help from a Resurgence Grant from Invest Atlanta, so much that Stephen was able to open his other location in Grant Park. Three years later, Invest Atlanta proactively reached out to Stephen about a potential employer credit. This led to conversations about how Invest Atlanta could help him secure low-interest loans through the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/commercial-down-payment-assistance\"\u003eCommercial Down Payment Assistance Program\u003c/a\u003e for he and Jeremy\u0026rsquo;s latest concept, DAS CANTINA, featuring their infamous smoked meats with a Tex-Mex twist.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s staff has been proactive, super responsive, and most of all, compassionate,\u0026rdquo; says Stephen. \u0026ldquo;They offer a hand-up, not a hand-out. Having that kind of support makes us proud to be Atlantans. Beyond all of that, they\u0026rsquo;ve let us know we\u0026rsquo;re not alone. They\u0026rsquo;re our partner. And as our partner, they want us to succeed.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFor Stephen, this partnership not only helps him scale his business, it also lays the groundwork for him to give back to the community in an authentic way. \u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;re not talking about cash for causes. We want to silently help feed those who need a warm meal and then not talk about it,\u0026rdquo; he explains. \u0026ldquo;We just want to do it because it\u0026rsquo;s the right thing to do and sincerely hope those actions will be what we\u0026rsquo;re most known for in 100 years from now.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":491,"title":"A Mission to Help Others","promo_title":"A Mission to Help Others","published_date":"2023-09-26","featured_image":{"id":2506,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"ltlf_lateshia_woodley_20_jd-bs.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":330492,"resource_updated_at":"2023-09-26T09:55:12.156-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-09-26T09:55:13.768-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-26T09:56:09.929-04:00","filename_hash":"ltlf_lateshia_woodley_20_jd-bs_xNX7b8D.jpg","width":1280,"height":853},"filename":"a-mission-to-help-others","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"qFDQ_A","created_at":"2023-09-26T09:56:09.819-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-26T09:56:09.819-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Healing a community requires healing its citizens, and nowhere can healing do more immediate good than with children.\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.drlateshiawoodley.com/\"\u003eDr. Lateshia Woodley\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;has dedicated her life to helping children within underserved school systems.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eHealing a community requires healing its citizens, and nowhere can healing do more immediate good than with children. \u003ca href=\"https://www.drlateshiawoodley.com/\"\u003eDr. Lateshia Woodley\u003c/a\u003e has dedicated her life to helping children within underserved school systems. Her focus is on strengthening the mental and emotional health of students, which she believes serves as the foundation of community-wide healing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I really and truly decided to dedicate my life to making a difference in the lives of kids who had some of the same struggles I did growing up,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Woodley. \u0026ldquo;So, for the past two decades, that\u0026#39;s the work that I\u0026#39;ve been doing: from being a teacher, to a counselor, to a principal, all the way to assistant superintendent.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Woodley\u0026rsquo;s background drove her to build her business: \u003ca href=\"https://www.dynamicachievementsolutions.com/\"\u003eDynamic Achievement Solutions\u003c/a\u003e, LLC (DAS). DAS is a counseling and educational consulting firm that works to transform communities that have historically been promised investment but might not have seen that investment materialize meaningfully. She works with educational institutions to combat mental health stigmas and improve the overall well-being of the communities in which they exist.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I decided after working as an assistant superintendent and seeing some of the concerns in the communities that I was a part of, that I wanted to have a greater impact and a greater reach,\u0026rdquo; she explains.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Woodley had a vision and clients. All she needed were the funds to expand her physical space and grow her mission in East Point. She learned about the Atlanta Open for Business Fund from Invest Atlanta and applied for a low-interest loan through the Atlanta Recovery Loan Program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment and technology. It is supported by a generous donation of $20 million from \u003ca href=\"https://welcome.wf.com/impact/\"\u003eWells Fargo\u003c/a\u003e to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We know that it\u0026#39;s difficult, more difficult for entrepreneurs of color to get funding in this financial space,\u0026rdquo; Dr. Woodley says. \u0026ldquo;And so, Invest Atlanta provides this avenue to make sure that we have an equal playing field and we\u0026#39;re able to be competitors in this global marketplace.\u0026rdquo;. She says being approved for this loan means she has the funds she needs to keep her business moving forward.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;If [the Open for Business Fund] didn\u0026#39;t come through for our funds, I don\u0026#39;t see how we would be able to continue the work that we\u0026#39;ve been doing. This has had such a great impact in the community,\u0026rdquo; she says.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe funding will allow her to create a center of operations, event space, a community garden and an individual counseling office. You can learn more about \u003ca href=\"https://www.dynamicachievementsolutions.com/\"\u003eDynamic Achievement Solutions\u003c/a\u003e and the services provided by visiting their website.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":489,"title":"Barking to Support Change","promo_title":"Barking to Support Change","published_date":"2023-08-21","featured_image":{"id":2473,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"city_dogz.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1015468,"resource_updated_at":"2023-08-21T13:15:51.074-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-08-21T13:15:51.996-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-08T09:26:48.858-04:00","filename_hash":"city_dogz_j3W4kl6.jpg","width":1986,"height":1986},"filename":"barking-to-support-change","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"kLuGqw","created_at":"2023-08-21T13:18:53.410-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-08T09:26:48.817-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u0026ldquo;We couldn\u0026rsquo;t have done this without the help of Invest Atlanta (and the\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eOpen for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e),\u0026rdquo; Brown explains.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eImpacting change, representing the community and enhancing the services in Atlanta \u0026hellip; all things Azhia Brown is committed to. This young, Black entrepreneur sees growth in the west side of the city and, rather than being a spectator to change, she is jumping right in. Brown owns City Dogz ATL, a unique boutique dog grooming and boarding facility. She opened her business prior to 2020 and then, like many business owners, ran into some challenges. That is when she learned about the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We couldn\u0026rsquo;t have done this without the help of Invest Atlanta (and the Open for Business Fund),\u0026rdquo; Brown explains. \u0026ldquo;The grant is allowing us to build out our physical space and really represent what is happening in west Atlanta. This area is about growth, community and support, and I hope this space personifies that.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Atlanta Open for Business Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG) enabled her to make big changes in her corner of the city. The grant is possible because of a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo to help Atlanta small business owners own more of their businesses\u0026rsquo; assets, including property and equipment, and to enable physical upgrades to their facilities. Invest Atlanta, in collaboration with United Way of Greater Atlanta, will distribute the funding as a mix of grants and loans in the city, with a focus on Black-owned and other diverse-owned businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe CPIG money will do two big things for her business. The first is to fence in the area and create a safe space for dogs and their owners as well as keep people passing by safe. The second is the addition of turf and large containers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBrown says the turf will be used in the play yard for pups while the containers serve as a barrier and will later be used for a planned expansion of services. Brown\u0026rsquo;s vision for City Dogz is to be more than boarding and grooming. She intends to create a dog community for the pet owners around the area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We want to offer residents in the area the use of our yard after hours so people walking their animals have a safe place for them to run,\u0026rdquo; she says. \u0026ldquo;We also want to expand to a self-service after hours dog wash for those who live nearby.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBrown, who has mapped out her growth strategy for City Dogz ATL, says without Atlanta Open for Business it would take a lot longer for her dreams to be realized.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e is designed to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth and to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":483,"title":"At the Intersection of Fashion and Purpose","promo_title":"At the Intersection of Fashion and Purpose","published_date":"2023-07-24","featured_image":{"id":2440,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"microsoftteams-image_-15-.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":2465616,"resource_updated_at":"2023-07-24T13:32:33.441-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-07-24T13:32:34.301-04:00","updated_at":"2023-08-02T11:16:18.606-04:00","filename_hash":"microsoftteams-image_-15-_aWWxKVe.png","width":6000,"height":4000},"filename":"at-the-intersection-of-fashion-and-purpose","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"1HiLjA","created_at":"2023-07-24T13:33:32.247-04:00","updated_at":"2023-08-02T11:16:18.573-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u0026quot;I want to address inequities in the world of couture fashion and put the Atlanta fashion scene on the map,\u0026quot; says Rose Gordon, founder of Pink Maison. This fashion mogul with a titanic list of accomplishments is doing exactly that with help from the Atlanta Open for Business Fund.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;I want to address inequities in the world of couture fashion and put the Atlanta fashion scene on the map,\u0026quot; says Rose Gordon, founder of Pink Maison. This fashion mogul with a titanic list of accomplishments is doing exactly that with help from the Atlanta Open for Business Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;In the world of high fashion, young Black designers are often overlooked,\u0026rdquo; Gordon explains, \u0026ldquo;so, I want my business to be more than a boutique.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003ePink Maison, located in the heart of Downtown Atlanta, is one part retail space and one part designer incubator. Gordon sells pieces from Black designers from around the world. She has cultivated relationships with promising designers from Atlanta, New York, the Caribbean, Africa, and beyond, and her company provides robust support to help these young hopefuls participate in an industry that doesn\u0026rsquo;t always offer them a fair shot. \u0026ldquo;In addition to our showroom, Pink Maison offers business development, digital marketing, press and [a] sales agency to independent designers.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith support from Wells Fargo, Invest Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta established the \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business Fund\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;to help small business owners in Atlanta build wealth by investing in assets such as commercial space, equipment, and technology. The financial institution provided a \u003ca aria-label=\"Link generous donation of $20 million\" href=\"https://newsroom.wf.com/English/news-releases/news-release-details/2022/Wells-Fargo-Donates-20-Million-to-Strengthen-Small-Businesses-in-Atlanta-/default.aspx\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"https://newsroom.wf.com/english/news-releases/news-release-details/2022/wells-fargo-donates-20-million-to-strengthen-small-businesses-in-atlanta-/default.aspx\"\u003egenerous donation of $20 million\u003c/a\u003e to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGordon launched her business at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although unsure about when safety regulations would ease, Gordon soldiered on with support from her husband and an understanding landlord. She came out of the depths of the pandemic ready to grow but in need of a financial lifeline. So, when she heard of the Atlanta Open for Business Fund, she applied for a low-interest loan through the Atlanta Recovery Loan Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe money will allow her to expand marketing, improve inventory, purchase equipment to refine her flexible space, and hire a new employee. \u0026ldquo;The funding through the Atlanta Open for Business Fund came at the perfect time for me and my business,\u0026rdquo; Gordon says.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith her business recovering and primed to grow, Gordon intends to expand her impact even further. She has founded a modest scholarship to help underprivileged students attend fashion school, and she intends to increase the award amount over the coming years to further help designers build the skills and networks necessary to thrive in the competitive fashion industry. \u003ca href=\"/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eClick to learn\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;more about the Atlanta Open for Business program, including application materials.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":479,"title":"We All Scream for Ice Cream","promo_title":"We All Scream for Ice Cream","published_date":"2023-04-30","featured_image":{"id":2380,"parent_id":147,"resource_file_name":"jason_davis.pdf.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":26765,"resource_updated_at":"2023-05-04T13:53:26.069-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-05-04T13:53:26.755-04:00","updated_at":"2023-07-24T13:37:13.110-04:00","filename_hash":"jason_davis.pdf_lPpjRze.jpg","width":480,"height":555},"filename":"we-all-scream-for-ice-cream","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"KPoogw","created_at":"2023-05-04T13:53:52.340-04:00","updated_at":"2023-05-04T13:55:35.310-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Jason Davis is the consummate entrepreneur. He works as a real estate investor and physical therapist, and with help from Invest Atlanta, he\u0026rsquo;s now pursuing a new business venture in ice cream.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eJason Davis is the consummate entrepreneur. He works as a real estate investor and physical therapist, and with help from Invest Atlanta, he\u0026rsquo;s now pursuing a new business venture in ice cream.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I always knew I wanted to open an ice cream shop,\u0026rdquo; says Jason. \u0026ldquo;There\u0026rsquo;s just something about ice cream that makes you feel good.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSince last July, Jason has been diligently working towards that goal. And, just in time for the Atlanta summer heat, he\u0026rsquo;ll be opening the doors to Aiskrimu Ice Cream Bar in the commercial district of historic Cascade Heights.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAiskrimu, which is pronounced \u003cem\u003e\u0026#39;īs krēm \u0026#39;\u0026uuml;, \u003c/em\u003emeans \u0026ldquo;ice cream\u0026rdquo; in Swahili. The boutique shop will include vegan and other healthier soft serve ice cream options featuring traditional and seasonal flavors, specialty items \u0026ndash; like ginger beer floats and caramelized plantain sundaes \u0026ndash; along with black waffle cones, ice cream sandwiches and even Pup Cups.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDespite several new restaurants and food establishments, Cascade Heights is considered a food desert, and Aiskrimu will serve as the only ice cream shop in the surrounding community. \u0026ldquo;I want Aiskrimu to be a place where people come together,\u0026rdquo; says Jason. \u0026ldquo;Where everyone knows each other and become regulars.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has been key to helping Jason get his business off the ground. As a recipient of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/commercial-property-improvement-grant\"\u003eAtlanta Commercial Property Improvement Grant\u003c/a\u003e, Jason received $38,000 to help build out the space and bring it up to code.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;As a Black small business owner, this support goes a long way,\u0026rdquo; says Jason, who points to a McKinsey \u0026amp; Company study on the high rate of small business failure, especially among Black owners. According to the report, 8 in 10 Black business owners fail within the first 18 months, primarily due to lack of access to capital. \u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has taken a huge financial burden off my shoulders,\u0026rdquo; continues Jason. \u0026ldquo;This grant made it easier to open my business. It\u0026rsquo;s a big deal.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eJason says that as soon as the storefront sign was installed, locals began voicing their excitement. Many have even come to him seeking business advice. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s a beautiful thing connecting with others who are trying to open a business of their own,\u0026rdquo; says Jason. \u0026ldquo;It requires a lot of sweat equity to make it happen, but it\u0026rsquo;s fulfilling. It\u0026rsquo;s cool to share my experience with them.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs for his favorite ice cream flavor, Jason says he\u0026rsquo;s boring. \u0026ldquo;I love vanilla. It makes me pretty happy.\u0026rdquo; He will no doubt be making a lot of customers happy when Aiskrimu opens its doors.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Atlanta Commercial Property Improvement Grant is part of the Atlanta Open for Business program made possible through a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo in partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta and Invest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":473,"title":"Atlanta Open for Business Fund: One Year Later","promo_title":"Atlanta Open for Business Fund: One Year Later","published_date":"2023-03-31","featured_image":{"id":2358,"parent_id":145,"resource_file_name":"ofb_logo.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":38642,"resource_updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:29:06.670-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2023-04-03T16:29:06.730-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-26T14:41:46.855-04:00","filename_hash":"ofb_logo_6XOPerl.png","width":1439,"height":1201},"filename":"atlanta-open-for-business-fund-one-year-later","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"QbddjA","created_at":"2023-04-03T16:26:51.310-04:00","updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:29:11.976-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta is the economic hub of the Southeast, serving as the headquarters for major corporations, film studios and the most traveled airport on the planet, but that\u0026rsquo;s only a small part of the economy. The census shows that nearly 15,000 businesses call the city of Atlanta home, including a significant number of Black-owned businesses. So, when COVID-19 forced nearly one in three Georgia small businesses to close (the majority of them BIPOC-owned), it became apparent that Atlanta needed help to accelerate recovery.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEnter: Wells Fargo.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe financial institution provided a \u003ca href=\"https://newsroom.wf.com/English/news-releases/news-release-details/2022/Wells-Fargo-Donates-20-Million-to-Strengthen-Small-Businesses-in-Atlanta-/default.aspx\"\u003egenerous donation of $20 million\u003c/a\u003e to help Atlanta businesses impacted by the pandemic recover. \u0026ldquo;As a company, we have a commitment to make the communities where we operate stronger,\u0026rdquo; says Charlie Scharf, Wells Fargo\u0026rsquo;s CEO. \u0026ldquo;Making a large donation in Atlanta was important to us. We know it will make a difference for small business owners here.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith dollars in hand, Invest Atlanta partnered with United Way to create the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eAtlanta Open for Business \u003c/a\u003eFund. The program is helping businesses, primarily owners of color, recover and come back stronger by providing them the means to invest in commercial space, equipment, and technology.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Atlanta Open for Business gives small business owners the opportunity to grow and expand by owning more of their own assets\u0026mdash;which can be a game changer for the financial health of any business,\u0026rdquo; explains Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta got to work right away, launching three programs:\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cul\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eAtlanta Recovery Loan Fund - Up to $100,000 in low-interest loans to help a business obtain tangible assets like real estate.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eCommercial Property Improvement Grant - Up to $50,000 to allow a business owner to complete internal or external improvements to their commercial property.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\t\u003cli\u003eCommercial Down Payment Assistance Program - Low-interest financing to assist existing business owners acquire commercial property.\u003c/li\u003e\r\n\u003c/ul\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta also helps businesses with their applications, helping businesses pull together the information needed to complete their grant applications.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThese programs have already started providing funds to small businesses in the city. Through the Atlanta Recovery Loan Fund, Invest Atlanta has distributed more than half a million dollars to seven business owners. The average loan amount for each recipient last year was more than $70,000, a real and tangible impact for everyone who qualified.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta is actively working to process applications for the Commercial Property Improvement Grant and Commercial Down Payment Assistance Grant and expects to disperse funds soon.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout the year, you will meet the inspiring people who are benefiting from the help of the Atlanta Open for Business Fund. We invite you to stay tuned to our social media accounts to learn more about some of the businesses in your backyard who are Open for Business and serving their communities.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you\u0026rsquo;re interested in expanding your business and are seeking the funding to make that a reality, visit\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/businesses/small-businesses/openforbusiness\"\u003eOpen for Business\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;to apply. Funds are limited, so submit your application as soon as you can. Technical assistance is available if necessary.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":461,"title":"New Program Helps Small Businesses Acquire Property","promo_title":"New Program Helps Small Businesses Acquire Property","published_date":"2022-11-28","featured_image":{"id":2141,"parent_id":132,"resource_file_name":"mantle1.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1561656,"resource_updated_at":"2022-11-14T13:33:56.400-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-11-14T13:33:57.104-05:00","updated_at":"2023-07-24T13:38:51.257-04:00","filename_hash":"mantle1_WV29m21.png","width":1729,"height":724},"filename":"new-program-helps-small-businesses-acquire-property","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"s0v-FQ","created_at":"2022-11-28T10:24:12.897-05:00","updated_at":"2022-11-28T13:44:31.801-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The City of Atlanta now offers a new $3.5 million loan program to help local small businesses build equity. Through the Atlanta Commercial Down Payment Assistance Loan Program (CDPA), Atlanta small businesses are eligible to apply for a direct loan of up to 20% of commercial property costs up to $200,000 to acquire commercial property.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe City of Atlanta now offers a new $3.5 million loan program to help local small businesses build equity. Through the Atlanta Commercial Down Payment Assistance Loan Program (CDPA), Atlanta small businesses are eligible to apply for a direct loan of up to 20% of commercial property costs up to $200,000 to acquire commercial property.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe CDPA program is the third initiative that United Way of Greater Atlanta and Invest Atlanta have rolled out as a part of the Atlanta Open for Business Fund, supported by Wells Fargo. The fund is made possible by a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo to help the owners of Atlanta small businesses own more of their businesses\u0026rsquo; assets \u0026ndash; including property and equipment \u0026ndash; and fund physical upgrades to their facilities. United Way and Invest Atlanta are distributing the Atlanta Open for Business Fund as a mix of grants and loan programs with a focus on Black-owned and other diverse-owned businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eHealthy, thriving local businesses are a cornerstone of Atlanta communities. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens noted that \u0026ldquo;Inflation and economic strains resulting from the pandemic have made many small businesses increasingly vulnerable to displacement,\u0026rdquo; says Dickens. \u0026ldquo;The Atlanta Open for Business Fund is designed to help Atlanta businesses keep their doors open and expand and develop a resiliency that withstands unforeseen economic challenges.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCDPA loan recipients must be an existing small business with a City of Atlanta business license interested in acquiring commercial real estate in the city of Atlanta with emphasis in low-income census tracts, Federal Opportunity Zone areas, disadvantaged neighborhoods or a New Markets Tax Credit-approved area neighborhood. Businesses must also demonstrate growth potential in their industry.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, says the timing of programs like the Atlanta Commercial Down Payment Assistance Loan Program and other companion resources are crucial because an estimated 25% of businesses do not open again after a major disaster like a global pandemic. \u0026ldquo;What we are doing with the support of Wells Fargo is offering small businesses resources that give them the means to withstand economic uncertainty to build long-term wealth,\u0026rdquo; says Klementich.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn June, United Way of Greater Atlanta and Invest Atlanta successfully launched the first Atlanta Open for Business program \u0026ndash; the Atlanta Recovery Loan Program (ARLP) \u0026ndash; that provides 3% interest loans to small businesses interested in acquiring tangible business assets. The Commercial Property Improvement Grant (CPIG) was launched in August, providing grants for small businesses of up to $50,000 for exterior and interior enhancements to their business.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Supporting racially and ethnically diverse small business owners is essential to the equitable growth of our communities and to the economic success of Greater Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Milton J. Little, Jr., president and CEO of United Way of Greater Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s through partnerships like ours with Wells Fargo, the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta that we are able to give small businesses in our city the tools and resources they need to grow and thrive.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about and apply for the Atlanta Commercial Down Payment Assistance Loan Program, small business owners should visit \u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/cdpa\"\u003ewww.investatlanta.com/cdpa\u003c/a\u003e. Small businesses interested in the program may request assistance with their application through Invest Atlanta by visiting \u003ca href=\"http://www.atlinbusiness.com/\"\u003ewww.atlinbusiness.com\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":444,"title":"New Small Business Loan Program Opens ","promo_title":"New Small Business Loan Program Opens ","published_date":"2022-06-22","featured_image":{"id":1958,"parent_id":7,"resource_file_name":"tk_atlanta_open_for_business_fund_site_mantle6_page_2.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":638493,"resource_updated_at":"2022-06-13T13:45:55.526-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-06-13T13:45:56.416-04:00","updated_at":"2023-07-24T13:39:56.160-04:00","filename_hash":"tk_atlanta_open_for_business_fund_site_mantle6_page_2_4BDVEJm.png","width":1306,"height":500},"filename":"new-small-business-loan-program-opens","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"rZr2wg","created_at":"2022-06-22T17:11:59.064-04:00","updated_at":"2022-06-22T17:11:59.064-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eWith support from Wells Fargo, Invest Atlanta and United Way of Greater Atlanta (UWGA) launched a new loan program to help Atlanta small businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Atlanta Recovery Loan Program is a $5.7 million program, offering low-cost loans to help small businesses grow ownership of tangible assets to help them build wealth and avoid displacement due to changing economic conditions. It is the first of four initiatives Invest Atlanta and UWGA will roll out as a part of the Atlanta Open for Business Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Without adequate financing to survive disruptions like the pandemic, most small businesses struggle to maintain their companies, let alone attain assets to grow them,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Andre Dickens. \u0026ldquo;This program will serve as yet another invaluable asset to help Atlantans build a resilient foundation for their companies.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This resource is a strategy to help small businesses purchase commercial property and assets for growth so they can develop generational wealth and increase economic mobility that enhances their communities,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This loan program will help more businesses recover quickly and open a pathway to growth for all.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eEligible businesses include existing businesses with less than 500 employees, partnerships or sole proprietorships and nonprofits with a focus on diverse-led or supporting diverse communities. Businesses in all commercial areas in the city of Atlanta, including those operating on City of Atlanta-owned property, are eligible.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe maximum direct loan amount is $25,000 - $100,000 at an interest rate not to exceed 3% repaid monthly over a term not to exceed seven years, providing businesses access to lower-cost, fixed-rate capital in a market where interest rates are rising.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Atlanta Open for Business Fund is made possible through a $20 million donation from Wells Fargo, offering a mix of grants and loan programs with a focus on diverse-owned businesses.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTo learn more about the Atlanta Recovery Loan Program and to apply, visit \u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/atlantarecovery\"\u003ewww.investatlanta.com/atlantarecovery\u003c/a\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n \n\u003c/span\u003e\n"}]}
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