Rapid growth requires new employment strategies
When U.S. Army Major Reginald Foster began planning his retirement gig, he and his wife, Zenna, began researching franchise operations. They chose Tropical Smoothie Café and approached the Augusta office for help. The Fosters now employ 58 people and are preparing to open another store in Augusta.
Strategic guidance helps Thomasville cheesemakers grow and thrive
Raised on a South Georgia farm, Jessica Little never expected to return home—but a passion for cheesemaking and sustainable agriculture led her back to help grow Sweet Grass Dairy into a nationally recognized artisan cheese producer. With support from the UGA SBDC, the Littles expanded their creamery, added dozens of jobs, increased sales, and successfully navigated growth challenges, positioning the business for continued success in competitive retail markets.
Seasoned entrepreneur experiences rapid growth
Carey Jones scaled Reliable Rolloff Solutions into a rapidly growing waste services company with help from the UGA SBDC. SBDC consulting helped him strengthen financial analysis, improve operations, and make strategic expansion decisions—fueling growth from two to 22 employees and nearly tenfold revenue gains in the company’s early years.
Atlanta architect wins clients and awards
With support from the UGA SBDC, architect Monica Fenderson successfully grew MOSA Architects from a solo practice into a thriving full‑service firm. Through strategic planning, business training, and certification guidance from the SBDC, MOSA increased revenues tenfold, expanded its team, and earned major certifications and awards—allowing Fenderson to focus on both smart growth and creative design.
UGA assists with launch of turmeric business
With guidance from the UGA SBDC, South Georgia entrepreneurs Diane and Ed Taylor turned their turmeric crop into the American Turmeric Company. SBDC consultants helped them secure a $250,000 USDA Value Added Product Grant and connect with key partners, fueling growth and expanding their reach.
Closed, but not “Closed:” SBDC helps St. Marys business thrive during COVID shutdown
When the COVID-19 pandemic forced Cottle & Gunn to close its doors in April 2020, owner Deborah Cottle leaned into creativity, community, and a strong online presence to keep her business thriving. With guidance from the UGA SBDCC, Cottle quickly launched an online store and leveraged social media to more than double—and then triple—her spring sales, transforming a crisis into a period of record-breaking growth.
Trust, then Verify: CPA values well-researched second opinion prior to purchasing firm
When experienced accountant Lisa Mayo was approached about buying another firm, she turned to the UGA SBDC not as an expert—but as a client. With guidance from SBDC consultant Rick McMurtrey, Mayo carefully evaluated the opportunity, purchased the practice, expanded into a larger space, and grew Mayo & Associates into a thriving full-service firm with rapidly increasing revenue and staff.
Federal restaurant revitalization fund supports Americus staple
For nearly three decades, Gladys’ Kitchen has been a beloved cornerstone of the Americus community. When the COVID-19 pandemic forced the country-style restaurant to close its doors, owner Tracia Tullis adapted with drive‑through service and, with support from the UGA SBDC, secured federal relief funding to retain employees, remodel the space and reopen stronger—ensuring the family‑run institution continues serving its community for generations to come.