Initiated in August of 2004, these communities have been designated by the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) as "Entrepreneur Friendly."

For more information, please visit our Entrepreneur Friendly page.

To learn about impact and best practices as a result of the "Entrepreneur Friendly" process and Strategic Planning, click on a letter to be taken to the correpsonding "EF" communities below:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Athens-Clarke County: www.athensbusiness.org  
1) Dedicated ESB point person within Economic Development Foundation (EFIF Award Recipient)
2) Newsletter targeting commercial realtors creating online commercial property listing
3) Created an advisory group for ESB efforts
4) Redesigned Economic Development website with specific content added for entrepreneurs
5) Organized the first-ever local economic development professional Round Table.
6) Organized the first-ever local entertainment (music and film) business group
7) Organized monthly local ESB resource panels expanding outreach to Madison and Oglethorpe Counties

Bacon County: www.almachamberdevelopment.com or ert1982@aol.com
1) Starting Leadership Bacon program with Entrepreneur and Small Business focus
2) Mini, tailored website development courses offered through technical college (EFIF Award Recipient)
3) Spanish classes taught to business owners and leadership (EFIF Award Recipient)
4) Providing Quick Books classes to small businesses (EFIF Award Recipient)

Baldwin County: www.milledgevillega.com or tara.peters@alltel.net  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Conduct business inventory assessment and promote the start up of types of businesses needed with youth, others; promote on website, include location map and traffic counts
3) Develop tracking system; capture activity by political districts to promote to city council and county commissioners
4) Conduct elected officials orientation educating them on the ED process
5) Developed ESB resource website: “SB Now”
6) New twist to promoting ‘same old’ program: ‘sell’ event outcomes & expectations instead of the name of event

Banks County: bankscountychamber@windstream.net
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
 2) Conducted SBDC’s Maximum Marketing Course (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Barrow County: dkrause@barrowchamber.com
1) Quarterly small business workshops
2) Develop metrics
3) Creating resource center at chamber
4) Successful Leads and business mentoring programs
5) Hosting Hispanic workshops in partnership with SBDC
6) Hosting Hispanic Business Festival

Bartow County: karen@cartersvillechamber.com or www.cartersvillechamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Develop ESB resource website
3) Create two-page resource guide for increased awareness and distribution
4) Develop a pilot mentoring program for at risk business
5) Develop metrics and tracking system
6) Host annual resource and business expo
7) Hosted a successful peer-to-peer networking expo for home-based businesses (businesses without storefronts)
8) Business After Hours presented as peer-to-peer networking for home-based businesses, mini expo

Ben Hill County: www.fitzgeraldchamber.org www.fitzgeraldchamber.org
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Develop a tracking system and two-page ESB resource guide to increase awareness of resources, successes, activity
3) Develop a mentoring network

Berrien County: berrienchamber@alltel.net or www.berrienchamber.com  
1) One of five members of SEEDS Center of South Georgia to help small businesses with marketing and other resources
2) Strong Better Home Town program
3) Bring back signature event with ag niche and ag tours / downtown / antiques
4) Capitalize on influx of troops at nearby military base
5) YES students (at risk) to become Youth Leadership Program focus
6) Comprehensive "Buy Berrien" campaign (EFIF Award Recipient)
7) Looking at Young Farmers initiative to launch local farmers market
8) Developed Buy Berrien websites for online shopping to enhance Buy Local campaign (EFIF Award Recipient)
9) Utilizing alternative school interns for Buy Local efforts

Bleckley County: cbchamber@comsouth.net or www.cochran-bleckleychamber.org
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Develop tracking system
3) Responding to survey needs through quarterly mentoring round tables lead by local business leaders, re-energizing Business After Hours to become a business-to-business environment and partnering with Heart of GA to host computer skills class
4) Promote the chamber as the ‘go to’ for business resource questions; create two-page guide for broader distribution; use tracking results as tool for marketing activity and successes
5) Enhance partner with Middle Georgia College on feasibility study, student activity; president looking in to offering business classes and/or 4-year degrees

6) Conducted Maximum Marketing (EFIF Award Recipient) 

Brantley County: bcdevau@btconline.net or 912.462.6275
1) Youth Camp in partnership with Okefenokee Technical College (EFIF Award Recipient)

Brooks County: johncox@quitmangeorgia.org  
1) Marketing plan for downtown
2) Involve bankers, attorney, CPA’s in community growth strategies
3) Customized workshops: e-commerce, internet, customer service, marketing
4) Grow sales internationally
5) Follow up with companies interviewed to provide more direct support
6) Form an adult leadership program
7) “Buy Local” effort

Bryan County: kfranklin@coastalnow.net or www.bryancountyga.org  
1) Chamber sponsored business workshops with focus on marketing, youth
2) Small Business & Entrepreneur of the Year recognition
3) Hold “Start a New Business Seminar” regularly
4) Involve Women’s Business Alliance
5) Creating an ESB resource website and marketing brochure, promoting ESB resource website and business assistance (EFIF Award Recipient)

Bulloch County: peggychapman@statesboro-chamber.org  or www.statesboro-chamber.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Increase awareness of ESB support, resources: resource guide on website, Ribbon Cutting metrics, two-page guide, promote and tout
3) Create data base of 52 companies interviewed; follow up, keep in 'news' loop
4) Meet needs of surveyed companies: host luncheon to thank them, share results, do overview of needs, develop workshop as needed
5) Add Eship component to youth and adult leadership classes; connect youth to local young Es (Zaxby's, Bruster's)
6) Resource Fair is an annual event

Burke County:  www.burkecounty-ga.gov or 706.554.5451
1) Resource "seminar" for bankers
2) Developed “How To” ESB Resource Guide
3) Promote chamber as the 'go to' resource for ESBs
4) Visit more growing companies assigning two per board member
5) Developed first small business award
6) Develop tracking system; promote efforts and successes often
7) Ag in the classroom – county extension’s 3rd grade field trips in spring to plant, then in fall to see harvest

Butts County: matha2@bellsouth.net or www.chamberbuttscounty.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Provide series of educational workshops
3) Develop metrics and tracking system
4) Create two-page Resource Guide for broader distribution of resource awareness
5) Cross link website to all pertinent government, library sites
6) Encourage more export activity

Calhoun County: calhounfc@yahoo.com or (229) 835-2473
1) Create a website for Calhoun County
2) Create a 'how to start a business' in Calhoun County packet

Camden County: www.camdenchamber.com or cdaniel@camdenchamber.com
1) Develop a uniform 'one-stop' resource portfolio to include video, "How To" Guide, and specific instructions on how to start a business in each municipality (EFIF Award Recipient)

2) Small Business recognition program based on SBA guidelines (EFIF Award Recipient)
3) Continue to survey new and renewal members with a shortened version of survey; possibly engaging Chamber Ambassadors to distribute survey
4) Update Chamber website to promote Small Business Committee's implementation of strategies and committee members and business names
5) Buy Local campaign (EFIF Award Recipient)
6) Customer Service Programs are popular; now being tailored to focus on Time Management, Professional Development, Dealing with Difficult People, Communication
7) Hosting Maximum Marketing through SBDC partnership (EFIF Award Recipient)
8) “Tools for Business Success” ESB website (EFIF Award Recipient)
9) Resource Center at the chamber
10) Signature event includes business-2-business sessions

Candler County: www.metter-candler.com or ccia@pineland.net
1) Developed ESB “How To” Guide and will place on website
2) Provide ESB resource area within development authority office
3) Customized workshops; focus on marketing
4) ESB Resource Fair is now an annual event
5) Follow up with surveyed and growing companies

Carroll County: www.bursoncenter.com or  donna@carroll-ga.org  
1) Burson Center mixed-use incubator includes free legal services, SCORE/SBDC assistance office,services and 2-year free chamber membership
2) Chamber-sponsored Small Business Expo
3) Micro Lending program/Angel Investor Group
4) Entrepreneur of the Year / Entrepreneur Hall of Fame
5) GA Tech procurement assistance & training
6) GA Tech lean/quality industry assistance
7) Chamber & Extension Service collaborating to expand Fresh Foods Network (local co-op & downtown Farmers Market & selling to Atlanta’s Food Bank) Long range plans include commercial kitchen incubator, organic meat processing co-op, wine grape growers co-op
8) Conducting a Regional Maximum Marketing Course in partnership with Heard and Haralson Counties (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Catoosa County: www.catoosachamberofcommerce.com or www.catoosachamberofcommerce.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Develop tracking system; include Ribbon Cutting metrics
3) Promote ESB resources; cross link, create two-page resource guide for increased distribution
4) Build closer relationship with state and federal resource providers
5) Develop E youth leadership program
6) Host annual Resource Fair/Business Expo
7) Continue to interview companies; address needs
8) Develop tracking system for LEADS groups

Charlton County: folkstonauth@alaltel.net or www.folkston.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Expand tourism development via marketing plan, seeking new story lines for media, researching Geo-caching
3) Provide educational workshops; look into work ethics workshop in school; provide list of places to shop/coupons in welcome packet
4) Develop tracking system to track numbers and activity and promote them community wide
5) Create two-page ESB resource guide for broader distribution of resource awareness

Chatham County:
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

Chattooga County: dtidmore@windstream.net or www.chattooga-chamber.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Efforts in place to build business resource centers at libraries
3) Place ESB Resource Guide on website; create two-page guide for increased distribution and awareness
4) Develop tracking system
5) Revitalize Business and Resource Expo; offer workshops, youth business booths

Cherokee County: www.cherokeega.org or pam@cherokeechamber.com  
1) As a result of hearing from 72 businesses, both the chamber and development authority incorporate customized strategies into their 2007 Business Plans in order to meet the needs expressed by their growing entrepreneur population.

Clay, Quitman, Randolph & Stewart Counties (RegionFirst): clayfamily@windstream.net  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Develop tracking system and two-page resource guide for increased resource awareness and distribution
3) Place “How To” Guide on website
4) Conduct semi-annual Regional Resource Fairs with a business education theme

Cobb County: mstambaugh@cobbchamber.org or www.cobbchamber.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Promote chamber as ‘point person’ to give people clear direction in identifying their next steps and appropriate resources rather than just promoting the multitude of available resources
3) Follow up with surveyed companies to drill down specific marketing needs

Coffee County: www.douglasga.org or jlewis@douglasga.org  
1) Kicked off new Young Professionals Network for professionals, entrepreneurs and business owners under the age of 35 to promote their businesses and network together
2) Began a continuing education series with a program on a variety of topics every 6 weeks (i.e. "6 Steps to a Better Business", "Franklin Covey Training," and "How to Start a Business")
3) Worked with Georgia EMC to create a detailed retail flyer – giving vital information to new business prospects
4) Celebrated 3rd anniversary of our "E-Friendly" designation with a special  exhibit at the Heritage Station Museum incubator and the introduction of an exhibit about a multi-generational family of entrepreneurs into the museum's permanent collection
5) Participated in a strategic planning session to kick off and focus future efforts as part of our 3-year anniversary
6) Initiated “Game of Real Life” into middle school
7) Business plan competition in planning stages; requirement is to hire from local colleges

Colquitt County: amandaholt@moultriechamber.com  or www.moultriechamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Provide educational workshops
3) Research how local government procurement works; educate and promote benefits of bidding and buying locally
4) Identify types of businesses needed and promote, recruit and develop peer-to-peer networking to identify supplier needs

Columbia County: karen@columbiacountychanber.com or www.columbiacountychamber.com  
1) Mentor program: eight businesses are assigned five local professionals; one session per month for eight months, each business sets agenda for the month.

Cook County: www.adel-cookchamber.org or cookcochamber@alltel.net  
1) Quarterly entrepreneur & small business luncheons with topical speakers
2) Developed a ‘how to open a business in Cook County’ guide.
3) Creating small business incubator on top floors of Chamber
4) FLOC - Future Leaders of Cook - middle school focus/summer, to energize passion to start a business, youth business plan competition, work ethic grade within classes that include appearance, being on time and doing homework
5) Youth included in adult Leadership Cook and entrepreneurship added to Leadership Cook program
6) Conduct BREP survey and ESB survey in alternating years; maintain communication with businesses
7) Top 10 ‘Hit List” of most desired businesses needed in community

Coweta County: www.newnancowetachamber.org 
1) Developed ESB “How To” Guide
2) Built “Entrepreneurs Thrive in Coweta” (ETC!) brochure and website that includes 1) Coweta Business Owner’s Guide; 2) Blog; 3) events and connection to all ECT! activity and 4) a categorized resource list that links user to the designated local champion for that resource/question
3) Develop a tracking system of activity and successes
4) Develop both an internal and external marketing campaign promoting their E environment
5) Provide business workshops to address top needs identified in EF survey

Crisp County: chamilton@cordele-crisp-chamber.com or www.cordele-crisp-chamber.com 1) Judges of DECA business plan competition to become mentors
2) Promoting entrepreneurship in elementary school (school wide)
3) Ten students members of adult leadership class
4) Credit and financing education in school
5) Increase awareness of entrepreneurial opportunities, incubator within Empowerment Zone

Dade County: dcoc@tvn.net   

1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) “Project Strategy” – outstanding response to big business needs – unique workforce development contest engaging K-12 for business/automobile innovations for the newly located VW plant

Dawson County: l.williams@dawson.org or www.dawson.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Promote local tourism assets to local residents
3) Capitalize on Art in the Garden and bicycle and motorcycle riders events
4) Shop local effort: promote by seasonal product, geographic location, sector
5) Create two-page resource guide, distribute community wide, promote
6) Create tracking system, Ribbon Cutting metrics, follow up
7) Interview companies annually
8) Provide workshops and other opportunities to meet small business needs
9) Increase awareness of Work Ready program
10) Entrepreneur of the Year program

Decatur County: www.bainbridgegachamber.com  
1) ESB “How to” Guide on website
2) Produce a two-page resource list for handing out at business licensing offices, etc.
3) Resource Fair to become an annual event; increase promotion of all resources
4) Possible professional mentoring program

DeKalb County: www.dekalbchamberofcommerce.org/dcoc  
1) Develop one-page critical resources list and promote it along with ESB resource website 2) Place ESB resource guide in business licensing offices; improve tracking, send to renewals
3) Continue surveying companies and benchmark responses annually
4) Update resource tool box – list financial resources

Dougherty County: hhollis@albanyga.com
1) Developed a street map to show locations of resource providers
2) Plan to add three levels of business resource workshops to include RDC, SBDC, microlenders and local schools
3) 14-county regional resource expo, workshops, seminars and regional resource guide (EFIF Award Recipient)

Douglas County: www.douglascountygeorgia.com/chamber/ or 770-942-5022
1) Creating Business Start Up Kit with web based access
2) Linking small business resources across the state to our web site
3) Hosting six-week, customized training courses through SBDC based on needs expressed in survey results
4) Creating a mentorship program with existing Entrepreneurs
5) Uses Zoomerang effectively for Chamber and business surveys
6) Small Business of the Month award
7) Strengthen SBDC relationship

Early County: hilary63@yahoo.com  or www.blakelyearlycountychamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Developing a tracking system including metrics for Ribbon Cuttings
3) Building better relationships with county and municipal governments
4) Provide small business educational workshops

Effingham County: www.effinghamcounty.com
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

Elbert County: www.elbertga.com or 706.213.7600 or ecdev@elberton.net  
1) Artisans - Organize and promote artists in the area by working on the Northeast Georgia Artists Trail through RAC 5 and the Northeast Georgia Arts Development Council. The Artists Trail refers to art of any nature including granite artists.
2) Tourism - Agri-tourism, local lake area and granite - taking advantage of natural resources to develop tourism with community partners to include: fishing, hunting, recreation, hiking, boating, golfing, birding, quarry tours and an improved granite museum.
3) Technology - Target small, technology utilizers and web-based businesses to locate in downtown Elberton.

Emanuel County: swainsborochambr@bellsouth.net or www.emanuelchamber.org  
1) Hosted ESB business classes in partnership with SBDC
2) Created “How To Start a Business” Guide
3) Small business owners initiated Quality Customer Service Seminar in partnership with Swainsboro Tech
4) OSHA Safety seminar to be held in partnerships with joint development authorities
5) “Shop at Home” campaign

Evans County: www.claxtonevanschamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Provide business education via SBDC/s Max Series, Lunch and Learns, possible 3-county effort
3) ESB Resource Guide on website, cross link with all pertinent sites
4) Develop tracking system
5) Create ESB resource area in chamber
6) Conduct annual Resource Fair

Fannin County: stephaniescearce@tds.net
1)Vision Quest: Youth Entrepreneurship Pilot Program (EFIF Award Recipient)
2) TVA Consumer Connection Resource: Market Research using Claritas
Database software - for small business access to market research and
Crittendon Database for access to franchising opportunities
3) Workforce Development Center - Small businesses have access to Business
Plan Pro, Marketing Plan Pro, and other small business software. Partners:
Appalachian Tech, Fannin Literacy Action Group and SBDC. ARC funded.
4) Epworth Broadband Initiative - Bringing wireless high-speed internet access
to small business in a rural area of Fannin County. ARC funded. 

Fayette County: president@fayettechamber.org or www.fayettechamber.org  
1) Developed “How To” ESB Resource Guide
2) Capture more metrics from ribbon cuttings making a mini survey of key growth and impact information a pseudo ‘requirement’ to conduct ribbon cuttings

Floyd County: www.romega.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Increase ESB resource awareness: speed networking at Business After Hours - board members to personally invite ribbon cuttings and surveyed companies,
3) Develop tracking system including ribbon cutting metrics
4) Place "How To" Guide on website; develop two-page resource guide for increased distribution
5) Promote little known resources such as funding, local colleges Eship and career development programs, RESA's high school grading program; ask all to participate in Business Expo
6) Research local angel network
7) Form other networks with groups such as: "Girls Going Places", home based businesses, Hispanic community

Forsyth County: http://www.cummingforsythchamber.org
1) Small Business Services Center, volunteer group within the chamber, oversees the entrepreneur and small business support programs and initiatives.
2) Liaison program engaging representative from civic and business organizations who will share SBSC highlights at each meeting
3) Survey Monkey for constant input and connection
4) Customized training classes per “EF” survey results

Franklin County: www.franklin-county.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Host an annual Tri-County Resource Expo that includes an open forum for business owners to ask questions from a panel of resource providers

Gilmer County: khlevine@gilmerchamber.org or www.gilmerchamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Assessing small business services; ESB Resource Guide on website, ESB resource area at Chamber, build better relationships with resource providers
3) Continue surveys with mini version of EF survey
4) Provide small business workshop that address needs of surveyed companies
5) Expand members of EF Committee to be all inclusive
6) Create tracking system including Ribbon Cutting metrics

Glynn County: www.brunswickgeorgia.net/dda or mhill@brunswickga.org  
1) "Enterprise Glynn", housed within the Downtown Development Authority, oversees entrepreneur and small business programs and initiatives
2) "Jump Start" – in partnership with the Glynn County Development Authority, provides critical start-up resources to new businesses opening in downtown Brunswick. ‘Jump Start’ is a direct result of the “EF” survey data that showed that start up capital is one of the biggest hurdles that small businesses face.
3) Providing SBDC’s Maximum Marketing Course on regional level (EFIF Award Recipient)

Gordon County: www.gordonchamber.org
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

Gwinnett County: www.gwinnettchamber.org
1) Revised former Small Business Academy into Entrepreneurial Development Certificate Program with UGA. Added a Fall course to complement sold-out Spring course.
2) Launched "Partnership Gwinnett: A Shared Vision for the Future" at www.partnershipgwinnett.com ; the foundation of a long-term strategic community and economic development program with focus areas on nurturing entrepreneurship.
3) Implemented two new Executive Roundtable programs to include a focus on marketing managers in small to mid size firms.

Habersham County: http://www.habershamchamber.com
1) Leads Networking Clubs
2) Monday Morning Chamber e-mail newsletter
3) Semi-monthly e-mail ads
4) Free web site listing & membership labels
5) Women in Business Breakfasts/Seminars
6) Kids in Business in school
7) Lifestyles & Business Expo
8) Small Business Resource Fair & small business seminars
9) Guide to Starting & Growing a Business in Habersham County – Revamping website to provide easier access and tracking (EFIF Award Recipient)
10) Small business consulting services
11) Small business referrals; tourism referrals

Hall County: Brittany@ghcc.com or www.ghcc.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Provide sales & marketing workshops, partnering with Lumpkin
3)Create student networking forum and provide business courses for Lanier Tech students

4) Develop tracking system including Ribbon Cutting metrics; promote activity, successes
5) Providing small business mentors while in technical college
6) $10K prize for sewing innovation with patent pending

Haralson County: jenglish@haralson.org or www.Haralson.org  
1) Professional Round Table Program
2) Team Haralson Community and Business Expo
3) Ongoing Business Seminars
4) New Business Center on website with “New Business Guide”
5) Conducting a comprehensive, county-wide buy local campaign (EFIF Award Recipient)

Harris County: www.harriscountychamber.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Follow up with surveyed and growth companies
3) Develop a two-page resource handout; promote and build greater relationships among governments, leadership in all municipalities
4) Chamber to host and promote monthly meetings on what SBDC offers

Hart County: www.hartcountyga.org/entrepcomm.htm or hartchamber-Michael@hartcom.net
1) Planning town hall meeting for elected officials and business owners to discuss issues and change "big business" way of thinking to recognize the entrepreneur and small business community as critical to the local economy
2) Offering SBDC’s Achieving Maximum Marketing Course and the Four Core Business Course to local businesses (EFIF Award Recipient)
3) Starting a SCORE chapter (EFIF Award Recipient)
4) Host an annual Tri-County Resource Expo that includes an open forum for business owners to ask questions from a panel of resource providers

Heard County: www.heardgeorgia.org
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

Henry County: www.henrycounty.com or kpippin@henrycounty.com 
1) Hosting a Regional Max Contact Series partnering with Butts County (EFIF Grant Award Recipient)
2) Hosting monthly Business Boosters Luncheons and Entrepreneur Success Series
3) Showcasing member restaurants and caterers by catering monthly luncheons
4) Created Professional Consulting Program to mentor start-up & existing businesses and future entrepreneurs

5) Conducted SBDC's Maximum Contact course in partnership with Butts County (EFIF Grant Award Recipient)

Houston County: megansmith@perrygachamber.com or 478.987.1234
1) Building Hands-On Entrepreneur Resource Center (EFIF Award Recipient)
2) Chamber contracts with members to provide business service support for one year
3) Hosting Business Expo
4) Lunch and Learn with SBDC
5) Software for retail recruitment

Irwin County: 229-468-9114 or www.ocillachamber.net  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Promote county wide successes to make all merchants feel inclusive
3) Follow up with Ribbon Cuttings and other new businesses at 3 and 6 months
4) Develop work shop calendar
5) Create local areas of interest map to capture hospital visitors
6) Develop tracking system
7) Comprehensive county-wide buy local, year-long campaign to include small business workshops (EFIF Grant Award Recipient)

Jasper County: www.monticelloga.org  
1) Develop community marketing plan
2) Small business workshops with focus on marketing
3) Market Fest includes youth entrepreneurs
4) Family Connections has E Camp for At Risk youth

Jefferson County: leasterlin@jeffersoncounty.org or www.jeffersoncounty.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Increase awareness and support of ESB efforts & resources: promote website, create two-page resource guide for increased distribution
3) Develop tracking system including ribbon cutting metrics
4) Conduct an Annual Resource Fair
5) Continue to interview companies and address needs

Jenkins County: pauladepot@bellsouth.net or ahometown@bellsouth.net   
1) Buy local campaign
2) Guide to Starting and Growing a Business
3) Entrepreneur Resource Center at the Chamber

Johnson County: chamber@wrightsville-johnsoncounty.com or www.wrightsville-johnsoncounty.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Created ESB resource center at chamber
3) ESB Resource Guide online
4) Promote ESB resources and website via media, frequent business articles
5) Host an annual Resource Fair
6) Develop a two-page ESB resource guide for better distribution, awareness efforts

Jones County: www.jonescounty.org  
1) Small business workshops
2) ESB resource guide soon to be on website

Lamar County: missykendrick@bellsouth.net or www.cityofbarnesville.com/site/page6217  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Create two-page handout for broader distribution of resource awareness
3) ESB Resource Guide on new website including ’10 Steps to Starting a Business” Guide
4) Speed networking / “Entrepreneur Advice” at Business After Hours
5) Create more ESB awareness within governments, lenders, schools
6)Conduct annual Resource Fair
7) Continue ESB surveys
8) Provide educational workshops in response to survey needs
9) Develop metrics and tracking system

Lanier County: llcoc@alltel.net or http://georgiafacts.net/net/location/county.aspx?countyid=13173&s=0.0.5.3013  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Value-ad ag efforts include possible winery, farmers market, co-op
3) Job fair for middle and high schools

Laurens County: Katy Edwards at welcomecenter@dublin-georgia.com or www.dublin-georgia.com  
1) Chamber provides mini web page development for business members
2) Lunch ‘n Learns; 1-2 speakers per meeting
3) County Extension hosting Agri-Tourism seminar for land owners and farmers to discuss potential economic impact and possibilities. Future plans include developing a marketing plan to promote local food products, site visits and “Made in Laurens” program.
4) Hosting a Maximum Marketing Course (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Lee County: lbarbosa@lee.ga.us or www.leechamber.net  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) High school students develop business plans for local businesses; help with ESB Resource Fair and will develop a two-page ESB Resource Guide
3) Develop metrics system to track ESB activity, outcomes
4) Place ESB Resource Guide on website, develop 2-page hand out for broader distribution, promote activity, numbers and successes
5) Follow up with surveyed companies to meet specific needs
6) Re-energize Business After Hours with new name: "B-2-B Connection", include speed networking and promote new format

Liberty County: libcochamber@coastalnow.net or www.libertycounty.org  
1) Develop work ethics program in high school
2) Present entrepreneur opportunities to military base retirees, transitionals and family members
3) Develop customer service program with city
4) Small business workshops

Lincoln County: www.lincolncountyga.org or aburke@lincolncountyga.com  
1) Developed ESB “How To” Guide and will place on website
2) Provide an ESB resource area at the chamber
3) Follow up with surveyed and growing companies
4) ESB Resource Fair to become annual event

Lowndes County: www.valdostachamber.com or (229) 247-8100
1) For an aggressive approach for retail recruitment: RLTrac.com – area realtors
pull up retailers interested in coming to your area
2) Business plan contest: winner commits to hiring local college or tech
graduates; produced a CD of project to replicate (Download contest sample packet - right click on link and select "Save Target As")
3) S.E.E.D.S. (Sowing Entrepreneur & Economic Development Successes)
Center
4) Economic Gardening: regional approach including GIS (EFIF Award Recipient)
5) Regional Governor's Mentor Protege Program called Corporate Coaches; tailored to regional size/resources with 'mentoring' from state ESB Office/GMPP
6) Second annual business plan contest; first prize is $10K with over $40,000 of in-kind services and advertising, and a $5K second prize has been added; also new this year is to have Lowndes' Coaches to help guide the contestants. In 2008, the contest grand prize will $15K and include $50,000 of internal services.  
7) Has initiated three outstanding radio ads targeted to small businesses and marketing the SEEDS Center. The SEEDS Center serves the regional area, so the ads are benefitting several counties
8) Host annual Entrepreneur Extravaganza, a tradeshow and resource fair for potential and existing entrepreneurs
9) Online government forms
10) Will host Max Marketing and regional small business workshops, conduct Creative Cities assessment and develop an angel investment network (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Lumpkin County: gary@dahlonega.org or www.dahlonega.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Young Professionals Group
3) Identify new opportunities through ACCG Youth Leadership Foundation, GA Academy, tie in to Georgia Made Georgia Grown
4) Encourage more travel writers to visit area
5) Offset seasonal cycle by targeting college students, faculty; identify needs, promote recreational opportunities and 'non-touristy' products/services to encourage more local purchasing
6) Provide marketing courses
7) Better promote ESB resources; place ESB Resource Guide on website
8) Develop SCORE chapter
9) Youth Leadership Program through Family Connections
10) “Shop Local is Green” - discounts when using green bag to shop local

Macon County: jcdavisjr@windstream.net or www.maconcountyga.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Place ESB Resource Guide on website; cross link, promote
3) Ongoing educational workshops
4) Connect dots with tourism development by developing marketing brochure and promoting as destination travel
5) 'Entrepreneurial Ventures' - high school program that includes operating and investing in a mobile store; mall-concept business plan development, developing marketing brochures for international cities - converting it to native language and converting currency
6) Promote/market HUB zone opportunities and tourism assets to three military bases in region

Madison County: marvin@madisoncountyga.org or www.madisoncountyga.org  
1) Web-based business start-up kit
2) Entrepreneur mentor program
3) Customized business training classes
4) Chamber's Youth Leadership program includes 30% At Risk Youth and will include an entrepreneurship component

Marion County: marionco.zoning@windstream.net
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Revamping county website; soon to add ESB resource website
3) Collaborate with university and technical college to offer business courses

McDuffie County: cgilbert@thomson-mcduffie.net or www.thomson-mcduffie.net  
1) Developed metrics to track impact on job and new business creation, expansions and investment
2) Customized training with focus on marketing by providing SBDC's Maximum Marketing Course (EFIF Award Recipient)
3) Continue contact with surveyed companies and growing companies
4) Place “How to” guide on website and develop a two-page resource guide for handouts and at business licensing offices
5) YOOTS: Youth Overcoming Obstacles to Success – targeting at risk youth to inspire and motivate with encouragement and positive energy

Meriwether County: meriwetherchamber@windstream.net or www.meriwethercountychamberofcommerce.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Develop a tracking system to capture and promote activity, create 2-page resource guide for broader distribution, ribbon cutting metrics; promote all
3) Increase resource awareness via post card campaign; "ask the experts" forum
4) Build strong relationships with elected official via regular updates at council meetings, touting business success in their districts
5) Possible mentoring program and youth Eship program with Harris County in future

Miller County: cmccoc@bellsouth.net  
1) Arts incubator – coined “artrepreneur,” funded by HUD - rent free RLF
2) Professional services support directory
3) Assessment on what businesses are needed in community (EFIF Award Recipient)
4) Small business forums and award program 
5) Study/plan to look at community's dependence on agriculture
6) Planning 'C' grade level summer youth camp; tuition assist
7) Hosting SBDC’s Maximum Marketing Course (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Mitchell County: mroyal@mitchellcountyga.net or www.mitchellcountyga.net/html/economic_development  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Spotlight home grown entrepreneurs; add 'speed sell' at Business After Hours and Small Business of the Year
3) Promote technical college's courses and events
4) Develop tracking system; capture Ribbon Cuttings metrics and follow up efforts 5) Better promote financial resources at annual Resource Fair, Lunch and Learns; maintain bankers relationships
6) Add Eship component to youth leadership

Morgan County: bhughes@madisonga.org or www.madisonga.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Quarterly “12 at 12” sessions with surveyed companies
3) Continue surveys annually with brief version of EF survey
4) Develop tracking system
5) Create Small Business Academy focusing on survey needs (EFIF Grant Recipient)
6) Creat ESB Resource Center at library
7) Conduct Maximum Marketing Course partnering with SBDC (EFIF Grant Recipient)
8) Develop streamlined government services guide (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Murray County:
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

Newton County: www.newtonchamber.com or lpowell@newtonchamber.com  
1) Lunch and Learn provides education
2) Lunch and Link provides networking opportunities
3) Coffee Call is held at a business
4) Newton A.M. is a breakfast networking and educational opportunity
5) Strengthening ESB infrastructure: partnering with city and county government to provide online government services, each linking to the other for seamless entry

Muscogee County: www.columbusgachamber.com or angela@vroooom.com or rhinze@columbusgachamber.com  
1) Resource Guide
2) Outreach to educational institutions
3) Chamber has had small business programs in place for many years; Entrepreneur Committee identified more areas in which to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses

Oconee County: www.occoc.org
1.) Developed an ESB "How To" Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Revitalize Lunch and Learn workshops
3) Considering a professional consultants-type mentoring program to reach start ups and micro businesses
4) Create and distribute two-page guide
5) All resource material transitioning to web-based access
6) Develop a tracking system; conduct exit interviews
7) Identify youth entrepreneurs; share survey results particularly the types of businesses needed in efforts to keep them home and fill niches
8) Youth entrepreneurs have business booth at First Friday, Business Expo
9) Host annual business and resource expo, include youth entrepreneurs, “Ask the Experts” forum
10) Conducting interviews with start ups and exit interviews with closings
11) Providing office and retail site bank
12) Maximum Marketing Series (EFIF Grant Recipient)

Oglethorpe County: foxtrote@sprynet.com or www.oglethorpecofc.org  
1) Implemented web-based guide on starting and growing a business
2) Expanded Work Ready Certification to include entrepreneurial curriculum in high school
3) Improvements to County’s Employment Center infrastructure
4) Branding and regional partnerships now include tourism and hospitality industry businesses
5) Agri-Business Expo in partnership with chamber, Cattlemen’s Association, Farm Bureau, school system

Paulding County: cdelamont@pcoc.org or www.pauldingcountygeorgia.com  
1) Business park development
2) First Thursday Forum
3) Paulding Career Women
4) Leads Group Monthly Meeting
5) President's Quarterly Luncheons 
6) “How To” Guide
7) Customized training workshops
8) Improve metrics and tracking methods

Peach County: pswanson@peachchamber.com or www.peachcounty.net/chamber  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Provide business workshops through Ft. Valley State University that include how to do business with FVSU, FVSU student presentation on how to market downtown business findings
3) Connect businesses with FVSU students to gain business operation experience
4) FVSU to provide hourly bus rides to downtown, downtown space for senior art students and ‘students meet business’ set up at student union
5) Develop tracking system and create two-page ESB Resource Guide
6) Follow up with businesses to capture current and growing needs
7) B-2-B networking: “Popping ‘n with Peaches” program: Chamber members visit members, new members and non-members giving peach-related gifts
8) Host quarterly ED communication forum

Pickens County: www.pickenschamber.com  
1) Quarterly small business workshops
2) Experts panel / workshop focusing on top four issues identified in surveys
3) Steering Committee and PR/Marketing Committee through which ESB activity is to be funneled and promoted to generate community awareness of ESB resources and activity
4) Professional Businesses Expo to tout local resources and provide mentoring

Polk County: polkmem@bellsouth.net or www.polk.ofgeorgia.org  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) “Wednesday’s Wisdom” – a small business tips forum; replaces Business After Hours
3) Develop tracking system and metrics, follow up for ribbon cuttings
4) Provide more web-based support by cross linking and frequent promotion of website, resources, successes
5) Chamber and banks to become ‘front door’ to ESB assistance
6) Promote library’s ESB resource center
7) Entrepreneurship component to be included in Leadership Programs

Pulaski County: http://hawkinsvillechamber.org or lee@hawkinsvillechamber.org  
1) Plans are to make access to resources and services simpler than ever

Putnam County: www.eatonton.com
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) "How To" Guide on line; includes tracking mechanism
3) Include an ‘entrepreneur’s table” at annual Career Fair
4) Two potential incubators: 1) downtown retail space; 2) historic home providing business space with admin. Support
5) Cross link; enhance library, create two-page guide for broader distribution
6) Utilizing Ambassadors to reach out to small businesses

7) Conducted Maximum Marketing (EFIF Award Recipient)

Rabun County: www.gamountains.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Youth mentor program to address soft skills and work ethics needs by businesses
3) Create ESB committee within chamber and development authority to address business needs
4) Spotlight entrepreneurs
5) Ask resource providers to be more involved in community awareness
6) Make better use of RLF; possibly as seed funding for start ups

Richmond County:  tcarroll@augustagausa.com or www.augustagausa.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Identified start ups as the major focus
3) Better promote start-up resources through various mediums, website linkages, two-page guide for better distribution, hosting "Big Roll Out" inviting all first points of contact such as professionals, business licensing offices, all schools, libraries, Ft. Gordon and office supply/related businesses
4) Possible buy local campaign at regional level crossing county and state lines in near future
5) Offering mentoring program
6) Providing Women in Business events

Rockdale County: www.conyers-rockdale.com or 770-483-7049 or fred@conyers-rockdale.com  
1) O.P.E.N. for Business ... Opportunities for Promoting Entrepreneurship & Networking is designed for the small business entrepreneur. Whether you have an existing business or dreams of starting one in the future, O.P.E.N. has something for you. Experienced business people who have "been there, tried that" share their experiences to help you avoid common pitfalls and be better prepared to position your business for growth and prosperity
2) 'Are You Ready?’ – this in response to those needing help now versus waiting to be accepted into their popular O.P.E.N. series; a Saturday morning seminar on business basics.

Schley County: www.ellavillega.com/chamber_of_commerce/index.htm
1) “EF” process gave us the opportunity to focus the right kind of attention on supporting our local entrepreneurs and small businesses. Plans are to provide resources more efficiently and create awareness of those resource

Screven County: http://www.screvencounty.com/index.php?option=com_contact&catid=12&Itemid=59
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

2) Conducted SBDC's Maximum Marketing course (EFIF Award Recipient)

Seminole County: dosemcc@earthlink.net or www.donalsonvillega.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Showcase ESBs
3) Promote resources via a two-page resource guide for increased distribution, tracking system; website promotion throughout county
4) Continue to follow up and visit companies; promote existing educational resources

Spalding County: griffinchamber@cityofgriffin.com or www.griffinchamber.com
1) Renaissance Griffin: to restore and fill downtown buildings for lease, requires business management courses prior to opening; out of county cars get ticketed with a ‘thank your for shopping here’ and discount card for Renaissance merchants; branding; signage
2) Stronger focus on resource awareness via targeted business segment focus groups; website, PR, partner website links
3) Annual Power Partners Entrepreneur Expo (EFIF Award Recipient)
4) Developed an ESB Start Up and Resource Guide on line and as a hand out; developing two-page guide for increased distribution. 
5) Regional Achieving Maximum Marketing in partnership with SBDC (EFIF Award Recipient)
6) Regional ESB resource website (EFIF Award Recipient)
7) Conducting an Alternative Agriculture Business Plan Basics class in partnership with University of GA Griffin campus
8) Caputring metrics from workshop attendees and surveyed company follow up
9) Provide "Ask Jim.biz" on website; will provide entrepreneur advice column in newsletter 
10) Offering business plan classes to laid off workers

Stephens County: wbaileytoccoaga@windstream.net or www.toccoagachamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide with broader distribution
2) Chamber to become ‘one stop’ for ESBs
3) Build ESB Committee within chamber
4) Host annual Resource Fair
5) Develop tracking system and metrics, follow up for ribbon cuttings
6) Become familiar and build relationships with alternate financing resource providers
7) Host an annual Tri-County Resource Expo that includes an open forum for business owners to ask questions from a panel of resource providers

Sumter County: gcheokas@gsw.edu or alice@americus.net  
1) Resource Guide both hard copy and web accessed
2) Resource awareness at local level – marketing the resources
3) Semi-annual retreats for better focus on strategy development and continue to flesh out “EF” survey needs, assess progress and measure outcomes
4) Mentor program
5) Uniform Business Resource Guide to include all municipalities (EFIF Award Recipient)
6) Youth Entrepreneur and Leadership Training Program (EFIF Award Recipient)
7) Host “Achieving Maximum Marketing” course, a comprehensive understanding of marketing and market plan development, in partnership with SBDC (EFIF Award Recipient)

Thomas County: www.thomasvillechamber.com
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Provide export and procurement workshops
3) Meet with government officials to better understand regulations and promote to businesses
4) Provide web site design through “high school techies”

5) Conducted Maximum Marketing (EFIF Award Recipient)

Tift County: www.tiftonchamber.org  
1) “How To Start a Business” Guide in elementary, middle and high school libraries
2) “Blue Devil Block” is a high school mentoring and job shadowing program where the mentor stays with the student throughout high school; community will also use this venue to include work ethics and Eship components
3) Partnering with Dept. of Labor Employer Committee and Chamber, “Choices” video is actively utilized to teach ethics to 8th graders
4) Conducting Customer Service training program for the City of Tifton

Toombs, Tattnal & Montgomery Counties (TRI-CREST): www.toombschamber.com  or 912-537-4466 or bmitchell@toombschamber.com  
1) Full time facilitator represents three rural counties in partnership with
local chambers and development authorities. Facilitator housed in and supported by Southeastern Technical College 
2) “How to start a business” packet – prior to handing out or downloading, person must complete a contact information sheet; Tri-Crest will track activity and make follow up calls/visits
3) Participate in local Ag Business Committee to identify ag business opportunities
4) Conducting three “Achieving Maximum Marketing” courses, a comprehensive understanding of marketing and marketing plan development for small businesses (EFIF Award Recipient)
5) Developing existing business strategies
6) Entrepreneurship development services provided specifically for ag, agribusiness, and ag tourism enterprises
7) Building three ESB resource centers in each county and an ESB website to serve three counties (EFIF Award Recipient)

Towns County: (jointly with Union County) erik.brinke@brmemc.com or www.mountaintopga.com/chamber_of_commerce  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Create greater resource awareness and meet start up and SB needs by conducting community forums and educational workshops
3) Host an annual ESB Summit/Boot Camp - 'triage'/'ask the experts' component and utilizing local experts

Treutlen County:
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide

Troup County: www.lagrangechamber.com or tiffany@lagrangechamber.com or 706/884-8671
1) "How to Start a Business" booklet is available on line, at the Chamber and each Business License Department in Troup County.
2) Active SCORE chapter

Turner County: www.turnerchamber.com  or szorn@alltel.net
1) Moultrie Technical College developed an Entrepreneur program for youth (76 in dual enrollment)
2) “Game of Real Life for 10th graders
3) Started a community foundation for small business development
4) Two-week middle school bootcamp with a focus on ESB
5) "Adopt a Building" program - Kiwanis and Rotary to renovate; to date, seven buildings have been renovated; significant cost savings
6) Turner County youth entrepreneur featured in the local media - 8/25 article and 9/24 article

Union County: (Jointly with Towns County) chamberpresident@alltel.net or www.blairsvillechamber.com  
1) Developed “How To” Start and Grow a Business and ESB Resource Guide
2) Create greater resource awareness and meet start up and SB needs by conducting community forums and educational workshops
3) Host an annual ESB Summit/Boot Camp - 'triage'/'ask the experts' component and utilizing local experts

Upson County: www.thomastonchamber.com 
1) Hosted Resource Day; mentors available to talk one-on-one; hosted various business workshops
2) Staffed Small Business Resource Center (EMBARC) at Flint River Technical College; provides workspace and temporary office space for start ups (EFIF Award Recipient)
3) Lunch and Learn; free quarterly workshops for those who received a start-up packet
4) YES (Youth Entrepreneur Spirit) Program: 1-year program working with high school and local newspaper giving students hands-on training in all facets of running a small business. Students will sell, develop and design advertisements for local businesses to be printed in the local newspaper; anticipate ads will cover costs and provide funds for other projects.
5) Entrepreneurial Incentive Program - private donor will reimburse up to $300 toward utility costs for start ups
6) Innovative marketing/resource awareness such as signs in empty downtown storefronts, on roads, buildings, special events information in utility bills
7) Publisher of local paper donating space to EMBARC who sponsors weekly business page

Worth County: worthchamber@bellsouth.net
1) “Guide to Starting a Business in Worth County”
2) “One-Stop-Shop” at Chamber
3) “Entrepreneur Centers” at locations where Business Licenses & Permits are obtained
4) “Small Business Development Partnership”
5) Partner with Tift, Turner, Worth, & Cook Joint Development Authority to host regional SBDC classes
6) Invited small businesses to Development Authority’s Worth 2017 meetings to give them awareness of what the Development Authority does and allow input in future decision making for Worth County.