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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.

From push mower to a growing enterprise with help from the UGA SBDC

ndividual standing indoors in front of a wall with a large “TopLine Landscapes” logo, wearing a light-colored polo shirt with the company logo embroidered on the chest.

When Griffin Thomas saw an opportunity to expand his business, TopLine Lawncare and Landscaping, he knew he needed guidance. With UGA SBDC support, he secured financing, improved financial management, and expanded into a new facility—fueling 24% revenue growth and earning SBA Georgia Young Entrepreneur of the Year honors.

Manufacturer expands export markets with UGA SBDC support and training

Representative at a trade show booth shaking hands with an attendee next to food processing machinery and a product display screen.

DeLong’s Gizzard Equipment, a specialty poultry equipment parts manufacturer, has carved out a niche in an industry dominated by one-stop poultry machine shops. When owner Mary DeLong Murray set her sights on expanding her company’s export business five years ago, she turned to the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center (UGA SBDC) for expert […]

UGA SBDC clients recognized as 2026 U.S. SBA Award recipients

Graphic promoting “2026 National Small Business Week, May 3–9, 2026,” featuring five red stars above the headline and an illustrated streetscape of small shops and industrial buildings. At center is a large SBA trophy labeled “SBA 2026,” with the U.S. Small Business Administration logo at bottom left and “sba.gov/nsbw” at bottom right on a blue background.

Six UGA SBDC clients have been named 2026 Georgia District SBA Award winners, recognizing their leadership, innovation, and impact on Georgia’s economy.
These entrepreneurs represent the very best of small business—driving job creation, strengthening communities, and proving what’s possible with the right support and determination.

Security technology firm secures future with UGA SBDC assistance

Person wearing a navy plaid blazer and white shirt stands indoors along a hallway of large windows with greenery visible outside.

When Adam Hammock launched iS3 Tech Services, he had deep technical expertise—but knew scaling a business would require more. With guidance from the UGA SBDC, iS3 has grown into a thriving security technology firm protecting mission critical facilities across the Southeast. Read how the right partnership helped turn vision into lasting impact.

Senior care entrepreneurs find success with guidance from the UGA SBDC

Two people stand side by side outdoors in front of autumn-colored foliage. One person wears a bright yellow T‑shirt, and the other wears a black collared shirt with yellow trim that reads “Graceful Hands Home Care.”

Through strategic guidance from the UGA SBDC, senior care entrepreneurs Ciera and Arthur Raven grew a startup into a multi county employer, increased revenue by 400% and completed a successful business sale. Their journey demonstrates the impact of sustained small business support in Georgia’s communities.

UGA SBDC helps hotel entrepreneur build his dream in rural Georgia

Two people stand together in the lobby of a hotel, positioned in front of a stone-textured wall with a large “Quality by Choice Hotels” sign. Behind They are standing near a granite-topped front desk, and one person is wearing a light-colored sweater while the other is wearing a zip-up jacket with the hotel logo.

Big growth often starts with the right partner. For hotel owner Neil Patel, the UGA SBDC provided the insights and financial expertise that allowed him to secure funding, renovate aging properties and expand across Georgia. Discover the full story behind his remarkable journey.