RESOURCE SMALL GUIDE BUSINESS
The City of Fayetteville and UGA Small Business Development Center at Clayton State are pleased to release this digital business resource guide, which lists the business support organizations and financing institutions participating in the May 1, 2025, Small Business Resource Fair.
The guide includes contact information, a description of the organization, emails, and phone numbers. Keep this information handy to engage with the resources that can support and assist throughout your business journey.
This inaugural Fair was launched to help more small businesses launch, manage, and grow by providing greater access to resources and enabling owners to build relationships with the right organizations and people.
All information in this guide has been verified as of the publication date. The UGA SBDC at Clayton State will update this directory at least once yearly.
Submissions for the guide can be sent anytime throughout the year at morrow@georgiasbdc.org.
Resources By Type
Business Consulting, Training, and Support
GA Center of Innovation
GA Manufacturing Extension Partnership
GA Veterans Career and Transition Center
Launch Fayette
Operation HOPE
Quality Care for Children
SCORE
Small Business Administration
UGA SBDC at Clayton State
UGA SBDC International Trade
Business Networking and Development
Clayton County Chamber of Commerce
Clayton State University Career Services
Fayette County Chamber of Commerce
Economic and Business Development
Clayton County Central Services
Clayton County Economic Development
Fayetteville Economic Development
Forest Park Economic Development
Forest Park Purchasing
GA Department of Administrative Services
GA Department of Community Affairs
Financial Assistance and Funding
Accion Opportunity Fund
ACE
Chase Renasant
Synovus
TruFund
United Bank
Alphabetical
Accion Opportunity Fund
ACE
Chase
Clayton County Central Services
Clayton County Chamber of Commerce
Clayton County Economic Development
Clayton State University Career Services
Fayette County Chamber of Commerce
Fayetteville Economic Development
Forest Park Economic Development
Forest Park Purchasing
GA Center of Innovation
GA Department of Administrative Services
GA Department of Community Affairs
GA Manufacturing Extension Partnership
GA Veterans Career and Transition Center
Launch Fayette
Operation HOPE
Quality Care for Children
Renasant
SCORE
Small Business Administration
Synovus
TruFund
UGA SBDC at Clayton State
UGA SBDC International Trade
United Bank
Business Consulting, Training, Support
GA Center of Innovation
Shirelda Feagen
Manufacturing Director (404) 962-4833
SFeagen@georgia.org
David Nuckolls
Executive Director (404) 962-4130
DNuckolls@georgia.org
Allen Fox Director Small Business Outreach (404) 962-4117
AFox@georgia.org
Exclusive to Georgia, the Center of Innovation helps Georgia businesses of all types and sizes find inspired solutions to challenges and opportunities. The Center connects new and expanding businesses with a team of experts, external partners, and independent mentors to tap into the technical expertise and guidance they need. By encouraging collaboration across six key industries: Aerospace, AgTech, Energy Technology, Information Technology, Logistics, and Manufacturing, the Center helps Georgia prepare for growth in strategic industry ecosystems. Website
Paul LaVigna
South Metro Atlanta Region Manager (518) 813-3676
paul.lavigna@innovate.gatech.edu
The Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP) is a program within Georgia Tech’s Enterprise Innovation Institute . It is a member of the National MEP network supported by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). With ten regions across the state, GaMEP has served Georgia manufacturers since 1960. Through coaching and training, we offer solutions-based approaches designed to increase top-line growth and reduce bottom-line costs. We are dedicated to serving small and medium-sized manufacturers and have a unique responsibility to boost Georgia’s economy by enhancing our clients’ competitiveness. We utilize a framework of Organizational Excellence across all levels of manufacturing plants to ensure business stability, align organizational goals, develop effective leadership styles, and advance your manufacturing plant by strategically planning for future growth Website
Reginald Thompson Program Manager (478) 218-3907
Reginald.thompson@gavectr.org
The Georgia Veterans Education Career Transition Resource (VECTR) Center hosts the Georgia Veterans Business Outreach Center (GA VBOC). The program is designed as a one-stop shop for transitioning service members, veterans, and military spouses looking to start, purchase or grow a business. Responsible for the Boots to Business, Reboot, business development assistance, training, counseling, mentoring, and resource referrals across Georgia, the VECTR Center looks forward to assisting military-affiliated personnel discover their talent, aptitude, and unique skills in starting or growing their own business.
Website
Steve Justice Director (770) 964-5323 director@launchfayette.org
Amy Hartness Programs Coordinator (404) 273-3207 programs@launchfayette.org
Launch Fayette is a community business incubator designed to connect new and growing companies with the resources & support necessary for growth. Startups get access to a collaborative office space along with a suite of local and statewide education and advisory services designed to propel startups to success. This provides entrepreneurs connection, collaboration, and access to industry leaders, along with educational resources that provide constant learning. We offer different levels of membership to fit your needs as you launch and build your business. Website
Twina Feliciano
Small Business Coach (770) 572-7584
Twina.feliciano@ operationhope.org
Linden Jackson Small Business Coach (470) 629-1188
Linden.jackson@ operationhope.org
Our mission is to advance economic opportunity to the community by providing the tools they need to reach their goals. We help individuals of all ages by offering financial education, one-on-one coaching, courses on credit score improvement, as well as pathways toward homeownership and starting a business. Website
Laura White Director of Operations (678) 973-7887
Laura.white@qccga.org
Kristen Groover Director CCR&R Central West Region (706) 590-1211
Kristen.groover@qccga.org
Since 1979, Quality Care for Children (QCC) has equipped Georgia’s families and childcare providers with the tools to support young children’s development. As the Child Care Resource and Referral agency for three of the state’s six regions, QCC provides training, technical assistance, and coaching to help providers achieve Quality Rated status. QCC is Georgia’s largest sponsor of the Child and Adult Care Food Program, helping providers access reimbursements for nutritious meals. Nationally recognized for its business support services, QCC strengthens the financial sustainability of childcare programs while expanding access to high-quality early care and education. Website
SBA
Jennell Taylor Economic Development Specialist (404) 331-0424
jennell.taylor@sba.gov
Erick Ortiz Business Opportunity Specialist (404) 331-6228
erick.ortiz@sba.gov
Created in 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) continues to help small business owners and entrepreneurs pursue the American dream. SBA is the only cabinet-level federal agency fully dedicated to small business and provides counseling, capital, and contracting expertise as the nation’s only go-to resource and voice for small businesses. The SBA works to ignite change and spark action so small businesses can confidently start, grow, expand, or recover. Website
SCORE
Ernise Cummings
Certified Mentor Ernise.cummings@ scorevolunteer.org
Jack Bernard
Certified Mentor Jack.bernard@score volunteer.org
Len Romano
Certified Mentor Leonard.romano@ scorevolunteer.org
SCORE is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). Thanks to this generous support from the SBA and the selfless contributions of our more than 10,000 dedicated volunteers, we can deliver most of our offerings at no cost. SCORE mentoring is a free service offered to any aspiring or established business owners. Partnering with you one-on-one to support your success by providing experienced advice, consulting on best practices, and educating you on small business topics. Website
Govantez Lowndes
Business Consultant
glowndes@georgiasbdc.org
678-466-5100
Chelsea Howell
Program Coordinator
chowell@georgiasbdc.org 678-466-5100
Richard Schnitker
Business Consultant
rschnitker@georgiasbdc.org 678-466-5100
Angelika Ozier
Program Coordinator
aozier@georgiasbdc.org
679-839-5082
The UGA Small Business Development Center business consultants and advisors provide professional, high-quality research, individualized business advising, and training at no cost to established small businesses and new ventures to improve access to capital, business planning, financial management, marketing and sales execution, channel expansion, export/import business development, and personnel administration to help owners improve business management and accelerate growth. Website
International Trade Center
Darrel Hulsey
Director/Trade Consultant
dhulsey@georgiasbdc.org 678-985-6820
Laurent Kahl
Trade Consultant
lkahl@georgiasbdc.org 678-203-0522
The UGA Small Business Development International Trade Center consultants help owners understand the exportability of their products and services, identify appropriate markets and buyers, develop market entry strategies, establish shipping and distribution networks, determine appropriate payment methods, and identify export financing and insurance needs
We work closely with other government agencies, including the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Our international trade experts give Georgia business owners an edge in Website
Economic and Business Development
Rochelle Dennis Main Street Manager (404) 366-4720
rdennis@forestparkga.gov
Charise Clay Economic Development Staff Assistant (404) 366-4720
cclay@forestparkga.gov
The City of Forest Park’s Economic Development Department enhances the city’s business competitiveness and develops a diverse economic base. The department supports small business growth and larger, corporate growth, particularly in the industrial sectors. The Economic Development Department’s areas of responsibility include facilitating development at the Gillem Logistics Center, redeveloping the Forest Park Main Street District, Film and Tourism development, workforce development, and improvement of commercial development in target areas
Website
Talisa Adams Procurement Manager (404) 366-4720 ext:342 tclark@forestparkga.gov
Yazmin Huerta Assistant Procurement Agent (404) 366-4720 ext:340 yhuerta@forestparkga.gov
The City of Forest Park Procurement Division provides high quality, professional services to procure quality goods and services, including municipal vehicle purchases, construction projects, maintenance supplies and more. It is the mission of the Procurement Division to obtain the best value for taxpayers, while also promoting transparency and fair competition.
Website
Brandon McCarden
Marketing (678) 618-0623
brandon.mccarden@clayton countyga.gov
Kayla Chase Project Manager (404) 450-8136
kayla.chase@clayton countyga.gov
The Clayton County Office of Economic Development is the leading office for business attraction, expansion, retention, project management, site selector engagement, prospect interest and small business inquiries for Clayton County, GAWhere the World Lands and Opportunities Take Off. Website
Patricia Jones
Contract Compliance Specialist Senior 770.472.8103
Patricia.Jones@clayton countyga.gov
Shaquita Covin
Contract Compliance Program Coordinator 770.472.8109
Shaquita.Covin@clayton countyga.gov
The Clayton County Central Services Department is responsible for the procurement of all commodities, equipment, and services for Clayton County, Georgia. The department implements, manages and oversees vendor registrations and vendor programs as well as compliance on all county contracts. Programs include the Small Local Business Enterprise, Clayton County Local Vendor and the Small Business Mentor Protégé Program. Website
Lori Funderwhite Director of Economic Development
(770)719-4175
lfunderwhite@fayetteville-ga.gov
Melodie Green Economic Development Coordinator (678) 839-5082
mgreen@fayetteville-ga.gov
The City of Fayetteville's Economic Development Department is dedicated to fostering a thriving and sustainable local economy. We actively work to attract new businesses, support the growth of existing enterprises, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents and visitors. Our team focuses on strategic planning, business recruitment and retention, workforce development initiatives, and promoting Fayetteville's unique assets. By cultivating partnerships and implementing innovative strategies, we aim to create a vibrant businessfriendly environment and ensure long-term economic vitality for the city. Website
Julian Bailey
Small Business & Supplier
Diversity Manager (404) 651-9704
julian.bailey@doas.ga.gov
Crystal Langley
Sr. Small Business & Supplier Diversity Specialist (470) 763-6426
crystal.langley@doas.ga.gov
The Department of Administrative Services is a customer-focused and collaborative partner that promotes responsible stewardship of state resources. As an enterprise agency, we serve other state entities. We offer tools, training, and guidance for state agencies, state employees, and those doing business with the state to maximize opportunities, foster growth, drive efficiency, and improve enterprise administrative performance. The State Purchasing Division issues and regulates the state’s contracts, manages the procurement systems and platforms, and sets the procurement rules and regulations. Website
Tracie Sanchez
Region 3 Representative (470) 851-8827
tracie.sanchez@dca.ga.gov
LaTonya Franklin
SSBCI Loan Analyst (404) 679-0582
latonya.franklin@dca.ga.gov
The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) was allocated $199,616,860 for SSBCI and operates five SSBCI programs. The Georgia Loan Participation Program (GA LPP) and the Georgia Small Business Credit Guarantee Program (SBCG) work with our approved lenders to deploy the loans under a delegated lending model. The Georgia CDFI Program (CDFI) work with their lending partners and make companion loans. We have Direct Equity and Venture Capital Fund of Funds venture capital programs. Our website will explain each program and the parameters of each. DCA does not make direct loans to borrowers. The Georgia SBDC administers our SSBCI Technical Assistance program. Website
Business Networking and Development
Olivia Rankin Business Development Coordinator | Community Engagement Specialist (678) 822-4370
Olivia@claytonchamber.org
The Clayton County Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit organization committed to strengthening the local economy by supporting small businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. Through advocacy, leadership development, marketing support, and networking opportunities, the Chamber helps businesses open their doors, grow, and thrive. With member investments of time and resources, we work to enhance the civic, economic, and cultural vitality of Clayton County. Website
David Conti
Dir. Membership & Growth
678-699-7175
david@fayettechamber.org
Leonardo McClarty President/CEO
678-214-3807
leonardo@fayettechamber.org
The Fayette County Chamber is a county-based organization dedicated to fostering business success. We collaborate with businesses of all sizes, government entities, non-profit organizations, and educational institutions, providing valuable resources and meaningful relationships. By advocating for a thriving local economy and hosting a variety of events, programs, and conferences, we aim to inspire creativity and stimulate growth within the business community. Website
Financial Assistance and Funding
Jasmine Aimes
Commercial Loan Officer (470) 845-1457
aimes@aceloans.org
Bonita Doster
Commercial Loan Officer (678) 274-6490
doster@aceloans.org
Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE) is a Georgia nonprofit and community development financial institution (CDFI) that provides affordable capital combined with coaching and connections to help borrowers create and grow sustainable businesses that generate jobs. Over the last 25 years we have provided more than $247 million in loans and business advisory services to support 2,800+ small business owners and helped create or save 22,600+ jobs for Georgians. As a CDFI, we primarily serve women and individuals in low-income communities whose businesses would not be as successful without our assistance. Website
Brian Moon Sales Manager 408-592-7657 bmoon@aofund.org
Desha Elliott Business & Market Development 831-256-8324 delliott@aofund.org
Accion Opportunity Fund is committed to advancing economic mobility for underserved small businesses and low-income communities through affordable financial services, knowledge resources, networks, and policy. Learn more about how our support for small business owners is helping businesses to thrive. Website
Nicola Roberts Sr. Business Consultant
770-632-9728
nicola.roberts@chase.com
At Chase, we're committed to giving business owners the support they need to help them achieve their ambitious goals From banking to payment acceptance to credit cards and local support to business lines of credit, small business loans, and commercial real estate financing, we offer flexible solutions to help you go far. Website
Dan Thomas SBA Lender
(404) 433-8405
dthomas@thefirstbank.com
Renasant Bank (formerly known as The First Bank) strives to be the financial services advisor and provider of choice in each community we serve. We are a $26 billion financial institution offering full-service banking products across eight Southeastern states, utilizing more than 3,200 employees and 280+ locations. Website
Jon C. Hughes Vice President (770) 268-7717
jonhughes@synovus.com
Cody Beam Retail Market Manager (770) 268-7702
codybeam@synovus.com
Synovus Financial Corp. is a financial services company based in Columbus, Georgia, with approximately $60 billion in assets. Synovus provides commercial and consumer banking and a full suite of specialized products and services, including private banking, treasury management, wealth management, mortgage services, premium finance, asset-based lending, structured lending, capital markets, and international banking through 247 branches in Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee. Synovus is a Great Place to Work-Certified Company. Learn more about Synovus at synovus.com.
Philip Thomas
Business Development Officer pthompas@trufund.org 404-859-6212
December Thompson AVP: Market Manager dthompson@trufund.org 470-497-4032
TruFund is a 501 (C) 3 certified Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) headquartered in New York with field offices in Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, and Texas.
Our mission is to expand access to capital, resources, and business development opportunities for undercapitalized individuals and communities. We help small businesses grow, create jobs, and build generational wealth by fostering economic resilience and strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems. Through strategic partnerships and innovative financial solutions, we work to bridge economic gaps, ensuring that all entrepreneurs, regardless of their starting point, have the tools and support necessary to succeed and contribute to sustainable, thriving communities. Website
Will
Edwards VP Consumer/Commercial
Lending, Newnan Division
wedwards@unitedbank.net
770-254-3833
Joe Borchardt VP Consumer/Commercial
Lending, Newnan Division
jborchardt@unitedbank.net
770-254-3827
Founded in 1905, United Bank serves the middle Georgia market through 18 locations, offering the latest financial solutions including business and personal loans, mobile banking apps, chip-protected credit and debit cards, and Interactive Teller Machines (ITM’s), as well as mortgage and wealth management services. United Bank offers government-guaranteed (GGL) loans for existing and new small businesses. Through the GGL loans, we can help businesses achieve their goals within their communities. We believe in providing financial solutions while building relationships with integrity and trust. We are dedicated to our customers and understand thriving businesses create healthy, sustainable communities.
Website