UGA Assists with Launch of Turmeric Business
South Georgia couple launches turmeric supplement business with UGA assistance When customers ask Diane and Ed Taylor about the pain-relieving properties of turmeric, they tell them about Bo and Tarra. The two Asian elephants, who live on the 850-acre Elephant Refuge of North America (ERNA) in southern Georgia, no longer suffer from arthritis since […]
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.
Lawn care company exceeds yearly projections with help from SBDC
From mowing neighborhood lawns as a child to leading a rapidly growing regional business, Kyle Flanagan’s entrepreneurial journey is rooted in hard work and smart guidance. With support from the UGA SBDC, Flanagan scaled his lawn care operation, navigated major transitions, and eventually launched Lawn Ace—now a thriving company with steady growth topping $1 million in revenue.
Tasting success at Qualusi Vineyards
Hidden amid suburban growth near Cobb Parkway, a multigenerational family farm took an unexpected turn toward winemaking. Facing financing challenges despite decades of agricultural experience, the Gilberts transformed part of their 500-acre property into Qualusi Vineyards with help from the UGA SBDC. The result is a thriving vineyard and event space that has quickly exceeded expectations and become a regional destination.
Photographer pivots business amid pandemic, with help from UGA SBDC
When COVID-19 abruptly shut down her photography business in spring 2020, Savannah-based photographer Diane Dodd was forced to rethink her path forward. By pivoting to capturing the city’s iconic scenes, she launched Charming Savannah, an unexpected success that sparked a new product line and business direction—with guidance from the UGA SBDC.