Small businesses remain the backbone of Georgia’s economy—driving innovation, creating jobs, and strengthening communities across the state. In 2026, their role is more vital than ever. To highlight this impact and examine emerging trends, the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC) has released the 2026 edition of Small Business and Its Impact on Georgia.

The annual report provides key insights into the state’s 1.4 million small businesses, including data on ownership, workforce demographics, and how population shifts are shaping the future of entrepreneurship.

This year’s edition features a regional deep dive into North, Central, and Coastal Georgia. The report examines Central Georgia’s specialty agriculture sector, Coastal Georgia’s manufacturing and logistics industries, and North Georgia’s poultry production and tourism economy—offering a closer look at the industries driving growth in each region.

With 17 offices statewide, the UGA SBDC delivers affordable training and no-cost, confidential consulting to help small businesses succeed. Over the past five years, clients have launched more than 2,200 businesses, created over 15,000 jobs, secured $1.27 billion in financing, and generated more than $9.7 billion in sales.