Georgia manufacturer’s global success story powered by UGA SBDC support

Two people work together at an automated tube-bending machine inside a manufacturing facility. One person in a blue company shirt and another in a plaid shirt examine curved metal tubing positioned on the machine. The industrial setting includes blue and yellow equipment, metal components, and overhead signage reading “Welding.”

Built in Georgia, trusted worldwide. Winton Machine produces advanced automation equipment used across the globe. See how UGA SBDC support helped the company grow from a small startup into an internationally recognized manufacturer delivering American-made solutions to customers everywhere.

EssenceTree scales holistic beauty brand with support from UGA SBDC

A person wearing a light-colored blazer stands outdoors beside a white brick wall featuring the EssenceTree logo. Trees and a large stone building are visible in the background.

After leaving corporate America to pursue a passion for wellness, Charmaine Gibbs-West built EssenceTree into a nationally distributed beauty and wellness brand. With support from the UGA SBDC, the company expanded into approximately 400 Walmart stores and continues to reach new markets.

Southern Savvy Med Spa grows from startup dream to regional success with UGA SBDC support

Southern Savvy Med Spa team members pose together in a spa reception area, wearing black branded uniforms and seated and standing in front of a floral-patterned wall with retail product displays.

Turning a vision into a sustainable, growing business takes more than passion. It takes planning, strategy, and the right support. When Southern Savvy Med Spa founders Britney Exum and Kristie Parrish prepared to launch the first medical spa in Colquitt County, they partnered with the UGA SBDC to navigate business planning, financial management, hiring, and expansion. Today, Southern Savvy operates two locations, employs 13 people, and serves clients throughout southwest Georgia.

UGA SBDC business plan guidance finances plant, leads to profit for meat producers

A strong business plan can be the difference between an idea and a thriving enterprise. With support from the UGA Small Business Development Center, business partners Steve Jackson and Kenny Woodham secured financing for a $2.1 million meat processing facility that helped grow Sowega Meat Co.’s sales by 567% in its first year and create 15 new jobs.

UGA SBDC training leads to new strategic focus, rapid growth for safety consulting firm

Safety Consultants USA team members wearing hard hats, safety glasses, and high-visibility vests gather at an active construction site during a field visit. The group stands on a newly constructed sidewalk with construction vehicles, utility work, and trees visible in the background.

When Kate Badey stepped into the role of president at Safety Consultants USA, she saw an opportunity to strengthen the company for the future. Through strategic planning, marketing guidance, and HR support from the UGA SBDC, the company achieved impressive results: 23% sales growth, stronger profit margins, and nearly 20% employment growth in just three years.

Strong strategic partnership with UGA SBDC secures family transition

Two people stand behind a jewelry store display counter beneath a large "David Douglas" wall sign.

For more than two decades, David Douglas Diamonds & Jewelry has partnered with the UGA SBDC to make critical business decisions, from relocation and expansion to succession planning. Today, the family-owned company has increased sales six-fold and is preparing for a successful leadership transition to its next generation. Read how a trusted advisory relationship helped secure the future of a nearly 100-year-old business.

Perimeter Floors builds success from the floor up with guidance from the UGA SBDC

Perimeter Floors team members stand outside company headquarters in Cobb County wearing safety vests and hard hats after the company's growth supported by UGA SBDC consulting. Perimeter Floors logo in lower right.

A chance connection through SelectCobb’s Business Walks Program led to transformational growth for Perimeter Floors. With guidance from the UGA SBDC, the company strengthened its strategic planning, enhanced financial management, expanded leadership development, and achieved impressive results: 12% sales growth, 34% gross profit growth, and seven new full-time jobs in just one year.

UGA SBDC expands presence in Metro Atlanta with new Buckhead office

Group photo of the UGA SBDC in Atlanta Team

Small business owners across Metro Atlanta will soon have a new place to turn for expert business guidance, training and resources. The University of Georgia is opening a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) office in Buckhead in collaboration with the Terry College of Business.

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