Norcross, GA — Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-07) convened a small business resource briefing for small business owners in Georgia’s Seventh Congressional District. Joining McBath were special guests Gwinnett County District 1 Commissioner Kirkland Carden, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Georgia District Director Terri Denison, SBA Region IV Administrator Allen Thomas, and Gwinnett Area Director of the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center Glenn Kruse. Gwinnett County Economic Development Manager Mark Farmer and Senior Director of the ACE Women’s Business Center Sandra Font delivered presentations during the briefing as well. Leadership of several local chambers of commerce and Community Improvement Districts were also in attendance to share resources from their organizations with small business owners.
“I am so glad to bring leaders from the Small Business Administration to speak to the support for our local small businesses that the Biden-Harris Administration is prioritizing in Washington, in the southeast, and right here in Georgia,” McBath said. “As the representative for the most diverse and fastest-growing congressional district in the state, we are truly a microcosm of the nation, and it is critical that our partners in government understand the needs of this vibrant and entrepreneurial community. I want to thank all our small business leaders for coming out today to learn more about what resources are available to them.”
“At the core of economic development, is a small business owner who was willing to take a risk and leap of faith,” said District 1 Commissioner Kirkland Carden. “I’m honored to work with Representative McBath as we ensure our entrepreneurs are armed with the tools they need for success.”
“The SBA’s Georgia District Office is honored to participate in this Small Business Resource Briefing hosted by Congresswoman McBath,” said SBA Georgia District Director Terri Denison. “As always, SBA and our resource partners welcome the opportunity to share with current and prospective small business owners the resources and assistance available to maximize their chances for success and growth.”
“Our purpose for today’s event is to provide valuable resources for starting and growing a business in Gwinnett County,” said SBA Region IV Administrator Allen Thomas. “There are over 778,00 small businesses in this metropolitan area, and they have created over a million jobs in the local economy. By joining forces, we are creating an impactful event that provides insight, networking opportunities, and critical tools to aspiring and current entrepreneurs. Together, we are committed to driving economic growth, empowering visionaries, and paving the way for a vibrant business community for all. We are grateful to Congresswoman McBath and her staff for their support and collaboration in this event, and we welcome the opportunity to partner with her and other congressional staff in the future.”
Today’s event was part of an ongoing effort to support and uplift the local small business community in Georgia’s Seventh Congressional District. In April, SBA Administrator Guzman visited Georgia to engage with small businesses and highlight how the Biden Administration’s Investing in America agenda has spurred significant small business growth over the last two years.