How to Start a
Business in Georgia

Starting a business is one of the most significant – and often most challenging -decisions a person can make.

The commitment is substantial, the potential impact far-reaching, and the journey highly personal. Some individuals are natural entrepreneurs, while others arrive at this turning point unexpectedly, perhaps out of necessity rather than choice. Regardless of how you get here, the decision remains the same: return to traditional employment or take the leap into entrepreneurship. It’s not an easy choice, and it’s one that requires careful consideration of many factors to help you feel confident in your path forward. Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone—success depends not only on your goals and resources, but also on external factors you may not be able to control. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a few recommended courses below.

Resources

Startup Basics Booklet

At the UGA SBDC, we created Startup Basics to serve as a foundational guide for anyone considering starting their own business. This resource walks aspiring entrepreneurs through the key steps of launching a business in Georgia—from testing the feasibility of their idea and understanding legal requirements to building a strong team, securing financing, and developing a solid business plan. This guide reflects our commitment to helping Georgia’s small business community succeed with clarity, confidence,and the right tools from the start.