The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Decide DeKalb Development Authority, DeKalb County Government, local municipalities, and the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC), is proud to announce the launch of the DeKalb County Small Business Resource Guide – a comprehensive new tool designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners successfully start, operate, and grow businesses throughout DeKalb County.
Created to simplify the process of doing business in one of Georgia’s most dynamic and diverse counties, the guide provides entrepreneurs with clear, practical information on business structures, licensing, zoning, taxes, compliance, financing, and local support resources. The guide also includes municipality-specific information for DeKalb County’s 13 cities and unincorporated areas, helping businesses quickly identify the requirements and contacts relevant to their location.
“DeKalb County has a strong entrepreneurial ecosystem, but navigating the process of starting and growing a business can sometimes feel overwhelming,” said Frankie Atwater, President & CEO of the DeKalb Chamber. “This guide was created to bring together trusted resources, local expertise, and essential information into one accessible tool that empowers businesses to move forward with confidence.”
The guide highlights the collaborative network of organizations supporting business success across DeKalb County, including the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, UGA SBDC, local governments, and economic development partners. Together, these organizations provide entrepreneurs with technical assistance, business coaching, financing opportunities, networking, workforce support, and growth resources.
Key sections of the guide include:
- Understanding business structures and registration requirements
- Business licenses and occupational tax certificates by jurisdiction
- Zoning and permitting guidance
- Tax and employment compliance
- Financing and capital access resources
- Business marketing and visibility strategies
- Technical assistance and business support programs
The resource guide also features information on local programs such as the Decide DeKalb Small Business Revolving Loan Fund and no-cost consulting opportunities available through the UGA Small Business Development Center.
Designed as both a starting point and long-term reference tool, the guide encourages entrepreneurs to return to it as their businesses evolve, relocate, or expand within DeKalb County.
The DeKalb County Small Business Resource Guide is now available online here: https://bit.ly/dekalbsmallbusinessguide.
About DeKalb Chamber of Commerce
The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization with the mission to support its business members and the economy of DeKalb County by providing education, advocacy, and connection. With 88 years of service in the community, DeKalb Chamber focuses on four critical areas including education, workforce and economic development, public policy, and business member services. We are the primary resource for businesses in DeKalb County. For more information on DeKalb Chamber, please visit their website at www.dekalbchamber.org or call 404-378-8000.
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