UGA Small Business Development Center at Valdosta State University

05/28/2026

ACE Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs has relaunched their South Georgia Emergency Disaster Relief Program. Learn more at https://aceloans.org/

05/26/2026

From a home garage startup to a global exporter, Winton Machine Company ’s journey is a testament to resilience and smart growth. Watch how UGA SBDC support helped them expand into more than 17 countries and earn recognition as the 2026 Georgia U.S. SBA Exporter of the Year.

05/21/2026

Marketing is moving fast and AI is leading the way! 🤖

In this live webinar, Marketing After Hours: AI & Automation, our Augusta team will show you how to streamline your efforts, generate content faster and automate everyday tasks.

Walk away with tools you can start using immediately. Register today: https://ugasbdc.training/aug/0831-001

Program Details:
Date & Time: Tuesday, June 2 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Format: Live Webinar
Cost: $29
Learn How To: Write better prompts, increase productivity and create marketing content.

05/19/2026

Strong partnerships create global opportunities. 🌎 For decades, the UGA SBDC has worked alongside DeLong’s Gizzard Equipment to identify markets, connect with distributors, and navigate international trade. See how this Georgia manufacturer expanded its reach worldwide: https://georgiasbdc.org/delongs-gizzard-equipment/

05/15/2026

🚨 Calling all Thomasville-area business owners!

Don't miss your chance to learn from Area Director and AI expert Nema Etheridge from our Albany office. Throughout this two-session series, you will learn how AI can help you work smarter, save time and strengthen your business. Register today: https://ugasbdc.training/alb/0822-001

Are you ready to improve your AI skills to help your business? 🤖 Then join us for the two-part AI Deep Dive: Hands-on Workshop for Small Business Owners. With an extensive background in marketing, branding and communication, our program instructor, Nema Etheridge, is excited to help you take advantage of AI to help your small business succeed!
Register now 🔗 https://ugasbdc.training/alb/0822-001
Program Details:
Date & Time: Tuesdays, June 9 & 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce Imagine Thomasville
Registration fee: $49
Program Partner: Southwest Georgia Regional Commission & Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing

05/12/2026

NEW business training now available! 📢

Join the Columbus office for their webinar, Improved Planning = Improved Profit, and learn how strategic planning can help your business increase sales, strengthen retention and uncover new opportunities for growth. Register: https://ugasbdc.training/columbus/0835-001

Program details:
Date & Time: Tuesday, June 23 from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
Format: Live Webinar
Cost: $29

05/08/2026

Georgia SBA Small Business Persons of the Year 🏆

Congratulations to Gwen and Larry Collins of Collins Manufacturing Company, a Macon-based precision metal manufacturer serving defense, aerospace, automotive, and agricultural industries.

With support from the UGA SBDC and SBA, the Collins team has expanded facilities, capabilities, and workforce. An incredible example of growth through partnership and purpose. Read their story: https://georgiasbdc.org/collins-manufacturing/

05/07/2026

⚡ Georgia SBA Blue Collar Business of the Year

Congrats to Trey Neely, owner of Neely Electrical Services, for being recognized for excellence in industrial electrical construction, maintenance, and custom solutions.

This honor reflects the hard work, skill, and dedication of a growing Savannah-based team making a real impact across Georgia. Read his story: https://georgiasbdc.org/neely-electrical-services/

05/06/2026

Georgia SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year 🌱

Congratulations to Griffin Thomas, owner of TopLine Lawncare and Landscaping, for being recognized for his dedication and persistence in growing a successful Carrollton-based business. A powerful example of what passion, hard work, and smart guidance can achieve at any age.

05/05/2026

🎣 Georgia SBA Small Manufacturer of the Year

Congratulations to Brooks Woodward and the team at The Fishing Factory, makers of premium fishing lures and tackle including Dirty Jigs and Nicols Lures.

Rooted in quality and craftsmanship, this Thomasville-based manufacturer stands out in a state rich with manufacturing excellence.

05/04/2026

Celebrating small business excellence in Georgia! 🎉

Six UGA SBDC clients will be recognized as 2026 Georgia District SBA Award winners for their exceptional achievements and community impact during National Small Business Week (May 3-9). Each honoree worked with UGA SBDC consultants to build, grow and lead successful businesses across the state. Read more: https://georgiasbdc.org/2026-sba-awards/

As we celebrate National Small Business Week, we will be spotlighting each of these winners, so stay tuned as we highlight their stories and success throughout the week!

✨ Congratulations to the 2026 Georgia winners:
Collins Manufacturing Company
The Fishing Company
Neely Electrical Services
American Eagle LLC
TopLine Lawncare and Landscaping
Winton Machine Company