From agriculture to pharmacy: UGA SBDC digs deep for a locally-owned pharmacy

Adult wearing a black polo shirt stands behind a retail counter, with shelves of vitamins, supplements, and health products displayed throughout the store behind the counter.

When Jared Swain first connected with the UGA SBDC, he had recently made a career transition from agriculture to pharmacy. After completing pharmacy school, Swain knew he could turn to Alyssa Foskey, area director at UGA SBDC at Valdosta State University, to help him develop a business plan to achieve his goal of owning his own pharmacy.

Macon restaurant crosses the finish line with help of UGA SBDC

Decorative interior wall covered in green foliage with pink flowers, small flamingo accents, and a neon script sign reading “Y’all.”

Entrepreneurs Dawn McCullar and Brooke Woods reached out to the UGA SBDC to secure the funding needed to open Yollah Social Kitchen + Garden. UGA SBDC consultants assisted them with their business planning and financial projections they needed—helping launch a restaurant that has quickly become a welcoming, community favorite in Macon.

A roadside tradition continues to grow with UGA SBDC

Rows of round milk‑chocolate candies move along a conveyor belt inside a confectionery production facility.

Since 1937, Stuckey’s has been a beloved roadside landmark for travelers across America, famous for its iconic pecan log roll. When the company sought to acquire a property for a new pecan shelling and candy manufacturing facility, it turned to the UGA SBDC for support. The UGA SBDC helped Stuckey’s develop a strategic business plan, secure financing, and establish clear, achievable goals to support the brand’s continued growth and legacy.

StillFire and UGA SBDC ignite brewing success

Exterior view of StillFire Brewing during the evening, with large open garage doors, patio seating in the foreground, and customers gathered inside and outside.

Discover how StillFire Brewing turned a bold idea into a booming community destination with help from the UGA SBDC. From business planning and financing to growth strategy and expansion, SBDC support helped the Suwanee-based brewery open strong, scale rapidly, and confidently plan a second location—proving that the right guidance can help great ideas take off.

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.

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.

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