UGA SBDC helps Augusta landscape company build legacy under new ownership

Patrick Wells, owner and president of Piedmont Landscape Management, stands on stage in front of blue curtain to receive SBA award plaque from woman in black dress.

From employee to owner, Patrick Wells turned a career in landscaping into a thriving business. With help from the UGA SBDC, he doubled his team and more than doubled revenue. Today, Piedmont Landscape Management into one of Augusta’s top commercial landscaping companies and Wells has been recognized by SBA as Georgia’s Small Business Person of the Year.

Savannah entrepreneurs’ startup finds fast track to success with UGA SBDC help

Three people and two dogs are standing in front of the large white truck with a portable dumpster on the back. One person is standing on the truck's step, while the other two people, Max Lemaigre and Sean Dane-Kellogg, and are standing on the ground next to each other, holding leashes attached to the dogs.

Sean Dane-Kellogg and Max Lemaigre, childhood friends and business partners, turned their entrepreneurial vision into two thriving Savannah-based businesses—Detritus and JMS Dumpster Rental—with the support of the UGA SBDC. Learn how strategic planning, access to funding, and expert guidance helped them scale smart.

UGA SBDC helps Savannah soul food favorite stage a culinary comeback

Geneva Wade built a reputation for mouthwatering Southern cooking in the ‘80s and ‘90s. When she decided to bring her famous fried chicken & cornbread back to Savannah, she turned to the UGA SBDC for help. With expert guidance and financing support, Geneva’s Famous Chicken & Cornbread Co. is now a thriving success.

Community ties, relationship with UGA SBDC leads to growth for restaurant franchise

When the pandemic threatened her fast-casual restaurant, Dos Bros, Purvi Patel turned to the UGA SBDC for help securing funding, expanding her catering operations, and opening two more locations! Today, Dos Bros not only thrives but also gives back—supporting nonprofit organizations, employing individuals with intellectual disabilities, and mentoring students through local schools.

2023 UGA SBDC Award Winners

The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center recognized 2023 award winners and sponsors during their annual conference on March 11, 2024.

“The recipients of these awards excel in their work with the business community, program development and representation of the UGA SBDC program,” said Allan Adams, state director. “We’re grateful for their contributions to our organization and are proud to recognize them for their efforts.”