Whether you’re just starting to brainstorm your idea or ready to turn your passion into a profitable venture, this class will give you a roadmap to success. You’ll learn what you need to start a business in Georgia, from assessing the feasibility of your idea to marketing, finding financing, building a team, and operating legally. You’ll leave with actionable steps, essential tools, and resources to start your business on a strong foundation. Small businesses are the backbone of America; this class will help you start yours.
Wednesday, October 22, 2025
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
This is a Zoom webinar. Upon registration, you will receive your Zoom link via email.
Ryan Swanson comes to the UGA SBDC after 20+ years in Venture Capital and Private Equity. For 15 years Ryan was a Partner and COO of a family office that focused on sustainable business. He has a wide range of experience from serving as the CFO of an Icelandic geothermal power company, COO of a regenerative agriculture company in Southwest Vermont, to founder and President of a packaged food company in Georgia. Ryan started his career with Deutsche Bank as an analyst for an early-stage venture fund. Ryan received a bachelor’s degree in Management and an MBA in accounting from Georgia Tech.
All programs of the UGA SBDC are open to the public on a non-discriminatory basis. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance.
Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration.
The University of Georgia
Small Business Development Center
382 East Broad Street
Athens, GA 30602-5412
P: (706) 542-2762