Driving Economic Development in Macon: A Perfect Blend of Incentives and Opportunities

As commercial real estate agents for Fickling and Cmpany, Trip Wilhoit and Patty Burns are well aware of the numerous factors that attract businesses to a specific location. One of the key considerations for any business is the economic development prospects in a particular area. Fortunately, Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) is working diligently to create a competitive business environment that fosters success. In this blog post, we will shed light on the variety of customized incentive packages offered by MBCIA, which seek to attract businesses and propel economic growth in Macon.

Customized Incentive Packages

One of the biggest advantages of partnering with MBCIA is their commitment to developing bespoke incentives for qualifying businesses and industry partners. MBCIA works closely with the State of Georgia, as well as regional and local partners, to create precisely tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of each business. By understanding the unique requirements of every industry, MBCIA ensures that no opportunity is missed when it comes to driving economic growth in Macon.

1. Property Abatement:Customized Incentive Packages:

MBCIA offers property abatement as part of their incentive package, enabling qualifying businesses to receive tax exemptions on their property improvements for a certain period of time. This allows businesses to invest in their infrastructure without the burden of immediate tax obligations, thereby freeing up resources for further expansion and development.

2. Grant Financing / Discretionary Funding:

In addition to property abatement, MBCIA assists businesses in accessing grant financing and discretionary funding. These funds can be instrumental in covering various costs associated with starting or expanding a business, such as equipment purchases, workforce training, or infrastructure improvements. This financial support can inject momentum into businesses, enabling them to realize their full potential in Macon.

3. Tax-Exempt Industrial Revenue Bonds:

MBCIA also offers tax-exempt industrial revenue bonds, providing eligible businesses with an advantageous financing option. These bonds allow businesses to secure low-cost capital for investment in manufacturing facilities, equipment acquisitions, or research and development initiatives. By leveraging this funding mechanism, businesses can make significant strides in their growth while maintaining financial stability and flexibility.

4. Foreign Trade Zone 104

One of Macon's unique advantages is its inclusion in Foreign Trade Zone 104. This designation allows businesses engaged in international trade to take advantage of certain benefits, such as duty-free treatment on imported goods and deferred payment of customs duties. Businesses operating within this area can streamline their import and export processes, reduce costs, and enhance their global competitiveness.

5. Business Retention & Expansion

MBCIA recognizes the importance of supporting existing businesses in Macon. To that end, they offer business retention and expansion programs. These initiatives aim to assist local businesses in overcoming challenges, expanding their operations, and maximizing their potential. By fostering long-term partnerships with local businesses, MBCIA supports their growth and contributes to the overall economic vitality of the region.

6. Infrastructure Assistance

To facilitate business growth and attract new investments, MBCIA provides infrastructure assistance to qualifying businesses. This may include assistance with site selection, access to utilities, transportation infrastructure improvements, and other necessary amenities. By addressing infrastructure needs, MBCIA ensures that businesses have the necessary resources to thrive and contribute to the economic development of Macon.

7. Sales Tax Exemption

MBCIA helps businesses reduce costs by providing sales tax exemptions on certain eligible purchases. This incentive allows businesses to allocate their funds towards other critical areas, such as research and development, marketing initiatives, or employee training. By reducing the financial burden, MBCIA enables businesses to focus on innovation and growth.

8. Local Vendor Programs

MBCIA actively encourages local businesses to participate in economic development effortsby offering local vendor programs. These programs aim to connect local suppliers, contractors, and service providers with businesses relocating or expanding in Macon. By supporting local businesses, MBCIA strengthens the local economy, fosters community engagement, and promotes sustainable growth.

As commercial real estate agents, Trip Wilhoit and Patty Burns understand the significance of economic development in attracting businesses to an area. Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority (MBCIA) stands out as an exceptional partner in driving economic growth in Macon. Their ability to design customized incentive packages, tailored to the specific needs of each business, ensures that each opportunity is maximized. With a wide array of incentives such as property abatement, grant financing, tax-exempt industrial revenue bonds, and more, MBCIA helps businesses thrive in Macon. By actively supporting business retention and expansion, investing in infrastructure, and fostering local partnerships, MBCIA creates a business environment that is primed for success. With MBCIA's support, Macon continues to evolve into a thriving hub of economic opportunity.

To learn more or ask questions, call Patty Burns and Trip Wilhoit today.

Trip Wilhoit
(478) 960-4080
Trip@Fickling.com

Patty Burns
(478) 951-5100
Patty@Fickling.com

Exploring the Promising Commercial Real Estate Market in Milledgeville, Georgia

Milledgeville, Georgia, widely known as Georgia's antebellum capital, is also emerging as a promising destination for commercial real estate investment. With its rich historical background and a strategic central location, Milledgeville offers a range of enticing opportunities for businesses looking to expand or establish their presence in the region. In this blog post, we will delve into the key factors that make commercial real estate in Milledgeville a smart investment choice.

A Prime Location:

Nestled in the heart of Georgia, roughly halfway between Atlanta and Savannah, Milledgeville serves as a commercial hub connecting these major cities. With easy access to Interstates 20 and 16, as well as various state highways, the city provides excellent transportation infrastructure for businesses and consumers alike. Its strategic positioning unlocks an extensive market reach, making Milledgeville an attractive choice for industries like logistics, manufacturing, and distribution.

Economic Resilience:

Milledgeville’s economy is diverse, resilient, and well-balanced. The city has undergone significant revitalization efforts in recent years, fostering a favorable business environment. With robust healthcare facilities, a thriving educational sector rooted in Georgia College & State University, Georgia Military College, Central Georgia Technical College and a growing number of small businesses, Milledgeville showcases stability and economic potential, drawing people from eight surrounding counties. Additionally, the presence of two major state correctional facilities provides a consistent source of employment and economic activity.

Affordable Real Estate:

One of the standout advantages of commercial real estate in Milledgeville is its affordability. Compared to major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, the cost of acquiring and leasing commercial properties in Milledgeville is considerably lower. This affordability not only attracts businesses looking for cost-effective options but also allows for higher profit margins and increased cash flow potential.

Investment Incentives:

Milledgeville, like many other cities in Georgia, offers various investment incentives to attract and retain businesses. These incentives can range from tax credits, grants, and low-interest loans to infrastructure support and workforce training programs. The local economic development authorities (Downtown Development Authority and the Development Authority of the City of Milledgeville-Baldwin County, led by Jonathan Jackson) work closely with businesses to streamline the investment process, making it easier for entrepreneurs to establish and grow their operations in Milledgeville. The Development Authority of the City of Milledgeville-Baldwin County has industrial sites of all sizes, some pad-ready to build on. Start here and grow in any direction. Planes, Trains, and Automobiles will get you where you are headed!

Opportunities for Growth:

Milledgeville’s commercial real estate market offers promising opportunities for growth. The downtown district, with its charming historic architecture and pedestrian-friendly streets, has been the focal point of revitalization efforts. Current initiatives and incentives are encouraging businesses to invest in downtown properties, including the former Central State Hospital buildings located in Renaissance Park. The historic Central State Hospital, once the largest mental health facility in the world, has a rich architectural heritage that presents a unique opportunity for redevelopment. The city Central State Hospital Local Redevelopment Authority, along with Fickling & Company and other local organizations are actively working to repurpose these buildings, transforming them into mixed-use spaces for commercial, residential, and cultural purposes. This initiative not only preserves the city’s history but also provides an additional avenue for businesses to tap into the growing market of experiential destinations, thus creating jobs and housing.

Quality of Life:

Another advantage of commercial real estate in Milledgeville is the exceptional quality of life it offers. The city is surrounded by picturesque landscapes, Lake Sinclair, offering lakefront properties for residential, commercial and recreation. The recreational areas that attract outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Furthermore, the city’s focus on preserving its historical assets and maintaining a charming downtown district creates an inviting atmosphere for residents and businesses alike.

Milledgeville, Georgia, stands as a promising destination for commercial real estate investment. With its affordable prices, investment incentives, opportunities for growth, and community engagement, Milledgeville offers a favorable environment for businesses to thrive. The city's commitment to revitalizing historic buildings, such as the former Central State Hospital, adds a unique edge to the commercial real estate market, providing diverse options for entrepreneurs looking for a distinctive location. Coupled with a high quality of life and a supportive community, Milledgeville presents an enticing opportunity for those seeking commercial real estate ventures in a vibrant and affordable setting.

To speak with Patty Burns, call 478-951-5100 or Trip Wilhoit at 478-960-4080 with Fickling & Company regarding commercial or investment property in Milledgeville.

Renaissance Park, Central State Hospital Campus activity:

• Fickling & Company has played a role in this redevelopment.What was once the world’s largest kitchen is back in operation with Peachstate Kitchens with over 65+ employees

• 157 acres with 52 houses sold and have been remodeled and now offered for lease

• The former Dorms and Apartments, 74 units, have been purchased and undergoing renovations for more residential rentals

• Other single-family homes have been purchased, by different groups, and in the process of renovation for sale or lease

• Many new businesses have purchased or leased commercial and industrial buildings for uses such as automotive, data, and warehousing.

Opportunities for Entrepreneurs

The pandemic has caused many people to assess their financial health, and their plans for the future. As an entrepreneur, are you considering investment opportunities in real estate? Perhaps you should.

But, why invest in the first place? The simple answer is to have enough money to live on when we no longer can or wish to work. According to financial enthusiast and commentator, Steven Kaufman, there are several things to consider when purchasing property as an investment move. In fact, he recommends it as a means to offset inflation and the taxes that erode business people’s savings. 

Trip and Patty are known for focusing on fair buyer representation in Macon, Milledgeville and throughout middle Georgia. As a team, they help their buyers find the property that best suits their needs, and their long-term goals. 

Rentals in Middle Georgia

While the residential market might prove unstable for a little while longer, 2021 will provide more chances to purchase and lease all kinds or properties, from retail units to industrial buildings. It is always best to speak to a financial advisor first about any plans to invest, and to determine the risks involved, and the return available to you as a landlord. 

Investing in Property in Bibb County and Beyond

No matter what kind of investment you make, Trip and Patty can help you find the type of property that makes sense to you and your business. Throughout Middle Georgia, the transformation and repurposing of industrial properties and previously empty retail units into new and shared spaces is a trend we’ve previously covered, and it will continue to become more and more common. 

But, that’s not the only development - with career centers designed with spaces for employers to meet prospective employees, specialized employment assistance that connects employers with veterans looking to apply their strong work ethics to the private sector, and Georgia Department of Labor regional coordinators who liaison with the business community to recruit qualified workers for new and existing industries, Macon-Bibb can offer you the staffing you need for success when growing your own business, too.

All in all, investing in real estate provides numerous benefits, and few risks - it can definitely yield healthy returns, and with low volatility. For more information, get in touch with your property professionals today!

If you are considering investing in the Middle Georgia or Henry County area, trust Trip Wilhoit and Patty Burns for all your commercial investments.

Tips for Buying Commercial Property

While it goes without saying, investing in commercial properties, including retail outlets and office spaces, is a different experience from private residential. Purchasing a business to financially bolster your own business requires number crunching, finding capital and doing your homework on taxes. However, with the right kind of guidance, any investor is capable of growth through complex commercial real estate.

What is Commercial Property?

According to Bankrate.com, commercial property is defined as “Any property that is zoned or used solely for business purposes is a commercial property.” This includes a range of building types and structures, from shopping centers and strip malls, to retail stores, restaurants, industrial spaces, farms, office buildings, hotels, and even vacant lots. Essentially, it is property that is used primarily to generate a profit.

Educate Yourself

Educating yourself might sound daunting, but we’re here to tell you it is not only easier to do than you think, but it is essential to making good choices. Just as we all look up information about vehicles we are interested in buying before we start test driving, it is a good idea to look up the following to get a good grounding in the topic and what you’re  about to face:

·                     Listen to podcasts

·                     Read commercial real estate books

·                     Watch videos on YouTube

·                     Talk to those who have already invested, or from commercial property realtors – get in touch!

·                     Join a local real estate investing group, or find one online that will allow you to become a member.

Find a Professional

It is the most obvious, but it has to be said. Professionals like Patty and Trip know the ins and outs of commercial property, buying and selling.  Find a commercial property realtor you can trust and contact them today – they will be happy to provide guidance based on their experience and their network of resources.

No Slow Down in Commercial Property – Adapting with New Trends

As we emerge from a challenging year, we’re excited to see new trends appear on the horizon. Especially for commercial property and mixed use property in middle Georgia. A combination of retail, residential, office and industrial is a trend that we cannot ignore going forward, and it’s certainly one that Patty and Tripp can support with their portfolio of commercial properties throughout Macon, Milledgeville and other key middle Georgia areas.

Commercial Property means Mixed Use Property

In its most distilled form, mixed use property is exactly as it says. A combination of two of more types of real estate. So, we’re seeing an emergence of office space that also contains residential units, or industrial properties developing in pedestrian and residential settings.

Adapting to the emerging markets has allowed businesses to stay on track with their own growth and development plans, while coping with a different environment for commercial customers. This also results in providing greater stability across the board – everyone is in a better position, financially. By combining uses, the developers and property owners are better able to provide for their own tenants and resident businesses, who are also likely to experience challenges during this time.

Middle Georgia Commercial Growth Opportunities

Even large-scale industrial properties are experiencing a renaissance in lieu of the pandemic. Factories, warehouses, and containers throughout middle Georgia are being repurposed to create functional office and residential spaces, reducing our carbon footprints and supporting more sustainable models of property development. And, with more families living in multi-family situations and more people sharing homes with fellow renters, our multi-family units just make sense.

Find a wide range of industrial and commercial properties in our listings, and talk to us if you have any questions about alternative development options. Mixed use and repurposed properties are here to stay – don’t get left behind, call us today, or search our listings here.

Malls & Big Box Retail Centers Transformation

For years, malls and big box shopping centers have been the mainstream choice when it comes to retail shopping.  In the last few years, malls have somewhat fallen out of favor and some big box retail centers have closed and relocated to more popular areas with more growth.  That in turn creates a lot of vacancy in these big commercial buildings.

Companies are now taking advantage of these vacant buildings and repurposing them.  Now with the internet, shopping has slowly switched from the brick and mortar shopping experience to more on-line shopping.  And now with the COVID-19 virus, on-line shopping has increased even more.

These situations have created a transformation where the vacant malls and big box centers are being transformed and repurposed into large distribution centers and industrial warehouses.  Companies like Amazon are using these properties for their regional fulfillment centers.  Companies like Fed-X are using the buildings for distribution centers and warehousing.

This trend has been going on for a few years now.  But with the popularity of the internet and the change COVID-19 is creating throughout the world,  it is predicted that it will increase in popularity drastically in the near future.

Malls are being transformed from retail outlets into call centers, apartments, and more.

Five Smart Ways to Invest in Multifamily Properties

First off, what exactly qualifies as commercial multifamily real estate? Basically, it’s a residential property with at least five separate units or dwellings. As an investment, it’s less risky than betting on income from single-family residences, because a vacancy doesn’t hit you as hard—think of an empty house generating no money at all versus one empty apartment out of ten.

Multifamily properties can be a smart investment, and there are a range of ways to fund it; you just have to decide which one is right for you.

Cash or Cash Equivalents

You hear about people paying in cash all the time, and it’s easy to picture bundles of twenties stacked in a briefcase, but cash isn’t just the literal green stuff, it’s any available money you have—meaning dollars that are not held in a qualified account with strings attached to withdrawals. Besides actual paper currency you may have in a safe deposit box, examples include money in stocks and mutual funds, CDs, and savings accounts.

Any of this money can be put to good use in multifamily real estate, which tends to be a very stable asset, but make sure that this is “extra” money. You need to protect a certain amount of savings or cash reserves for unexpected expenses like job loss, injuries, and other emergency situations.

It should also be noted that using cash comes with tax benefits. Commercial multifamily investments generate depreciation, an on-paper loss that allows for a tax deduction that can, in some cases, eliminate the need pay taxes on the property’s income for three to seven years.

Trusts can be used for investing in multifamily real estate in a similar way to cash investments, with the trust name as the investor and the trustee as the signatory. Because there are so many different forms of the estate management tools known as trusts, you should work closely with tax and real estate professionals to figure out the best course of action.

Qualified Accounts

Qualified accounts include government-approved retirement accounts, and self-directed qualified accounts that allow you to invest in almost any asset while keeping the tax advantages of an IRS-protected retirement account. Keep in mind, so-called self-directed accounts through brokerage firms aren’t usually fully self-directed; they want you to choose your investments from a list they provide, instead of directly investing your money in hard assets like real estate.

There are also tax-deferred accounts—such as self-directed IRAs, self-directed SEP-IRAs, Keogh to self-directed rollover IRAs, self-directed solo 401Ks, and 401K to self-directed rollover IRAs—that allow you to invest pre-tax dollars and benefit from tax-free growth, but any withdrawals you make will be taxed at standard rates.

Investment from any of these kinds of qualified accounts won’t give you the benefit of depreciation on paper, since the accounts already have tax advantages built-in. However, being able to take part in a stable real estate investment using pre-tax money and benefiting from tax-free growth more than makes up for it.

Then there’s the Roth IRA, which may be your best option. These accounts take post-tax money, but future gains and withdrawals are all tax-free, making them a great long-term option for stable, income-producing growth that can benefit you for the rest of your life.

Smart Borrowing

If you are able to borrow at a lower rate in order to gain returns at a higher rate, or if you can borrow in a way that allows you to transition qualified money into cash without a penalty, then you have the kind of intelligent borrowing that can be useful for investments.

A home equity loan or line of credit is one type of intelligent borrowing—if, for example, you can borrow at 3% when you can expect to get a yield of 6% or more. You’ll get the same tax advantages as cash investments, and you may be able to deduct the interest, depending on the size of the loan and your income.

Loans from company-sponsored 401K plans are another option. You may be able to borrow up to $50,000, or 50 percent of the balance in the account, whichever one is lower. Then you use the excess income to pay back the loan, pay the 6% interest back to yourself, and benefit from the equity growth of an income-earning asset.

Lastly, you can take out a loan from a Whole Life Insurance policy, but this won’t make sense unless the policy has already been completely set up and funded, which takes up to five years.

No matter how you decide to borrow for investment, you’ll find that when it comes to real estate, lenders usually prefer financing multifamily properties over single-family properties, even though they tend to be more expensive. That’s because the month to month cash flow generated by these properties tends to be much higher, meaning much less risk of people defaulting on their loans.

Real Estate

Whether you decide to sell raw land, possibly inherited, that is only sitting there, costing you more money each year in property taxes, or you decide to build on land that is in a growth area to maximize its appreciation and turn it into an income-producing asset, real estate is an investment that you can use to further other real estate investments. Make sure you consult a professional who can give you solid advice on the best way to proceed.

Under-performing Residential Income Property

Cash flow homes and other residential income property can be a great investment when you have no shortage of renters, or when you can buy low and sell high, but neither outcome is guaranteed. For the most part, purchasing and managing residential income property is best regarded as a profession rather than a passive investment. It takes a lot of work to make a profit in this way. Multifamily real estate, however, is a lot more passive and a lot more profitable, so if you own single-family properties, you may want to consider selling and transitioning into a multi-family property.

When you have all your rental units in one location, it becomes much easier to manage both tenants and maintenance. With the income generated from the property, you could also hire employees to manage the units for you, taking on the work of phone calls, audits, rent, maintenance supervision, and more.  

No matter how you choose to approach the investment, commercial multifamily properties are a smart way to make your money work for you. Consult with a real estate agent to learn more about what’s available in your area.

Read More:

Milledgeville & Baldwin County: Top 6 Reasons to Purchase Commercial Real Estate

Reduced Commercial Real Estate In Middle Georgia

Growth, Profitability, Proven Results

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT GeorgiaCommercialRealEstate.net 577 Mulberry St, Suite 1100 * P.O. Box 310 * Macon, GA 31202 | Phone (478) 746-9421 | Fax (478) 742-2015

This information is from resources deemed to be reliable, no warranties or guarantees for accuracy are made by Fickling and Company

Trip Wilhoit, CCIM, ALC  478-960-4080  trip@fickling.com

Patty Burns, CCIM, ALC 478-951-5100 patty@fickling.com

Growth, Profitability, Proven Results

Commercial Real Estate Sales & Investment

Trip Wilhoit & Patty Burns, Fickling & Company

We represent both Buyers and Sellers in Commercial Real Estate transactions, as well as new business development & relocation.  Local State, Regional and National clients depend on our combined knowledge and experience to get the job done. It is our goal to provide you with Excellent Service and the Highest Profitability.

Have you been holding on to some commercial real estate waiting for the market to change?  Now is a great time to call Trip Wilhoit: 478-960-4080  or  Patty Burns: 478-951-5100 to learn more about your options.

We add new listings to our website daily.  If you don't see what you are searching for, please call us, Trip Wilhoit: 478-960-4080 or Patty Burns: 478-951-5100 and we will find exactly what you are seeking.

Suggested Articles:

Milledgeville & Baldwin County: Top 6 Reasons to Purchase Commercial Real Estate

Reduced Commercial Real Estate In Middle Georgia

Bank Owned Properties

Middle Georgia Commercial Real Estate Investors

NNN properties in Macon: The Benefits of Buying Net Lease Properties

Middle Georgia Commercial Real Estate Investors

Below you will find a list of our Featured Investment Properties in Eatonton, Macon, Milledgeville, Locust Grove, Fort Valley and Branch, Georgia.  If you do not see exactly what you are looking for, please call us today. 

Trip Wilhoit: 478-960-4080   |  Patty Burns: 478-951-5100 

Suggested Articles:

Milledgeville & Baldwin County: Top 6 Reasons to Purchase Commercial Real Estate

Reduced Commercial Real Estate In Middle Georgia

Bank Owned Properties

Commercial Properties in Warner Robins, GA

Trip Wilhoit: 478-960-4080 |  Patty Burns: 478-951-5100

Fickling & Company

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519 North Houston Road, Warner Robins, GA

Price                            $165,000

Lot Size                        0.77 AC

Property Use Type       Vacant/Owner-User

Property Type               Land

1701 Elberta Road, Warner Robins, GA

Price                            $225,000

Building Size               4,777 SF

Property Type               Office

Lot Size                          0.67 AC

101 Watson Boulevard, Warner Robins, GA

Price             $60,000

Lot Size        .23 acres

Utilities         All available

Traffic:          7,020 VPD

645 Tallulah Trail, Warner Robins, GA

Rental Rate                           $18.50 /SF/Year

Total Space Available           6,679 SF

Max. Contiguous                  2,616 SF

Property Type                      Office

601-613 Russell Parkway, Warner Robins, GA

Rental Rate               $13 /SF/Year

Lot Size                     3.92 acres

Parking                      240± spaces

Utilities                      All utilities available

Property Type           Office

502 Booth Road, Warner Robins, GA

Lot 4              ±0.96 Acres—$200,000

Lot 5             ±1.00 Acres—$190,000

Lot 6             ±1.01 Acres—$175,000

Traffic           Approx. 31,000 VPD

225 Smithville Church Road, Warner Robins, GA

Size             (2 buildings) 24,000 sf & 9,600 sf

Lot Size        2.6 acres

Parking         135 spaces

Utilities         All utilities available 

Taxes           $24,032 (City & County combined)

Commercial Properties in Perry, Ga

Trip Wilhoit: 478-960-4080  |  Patty Burns: 478-951-5100

Fickling & Company

606 Ball Street, Perry, Ga

Price                                $175,000

Building Size                   18,235 SF

Price/SF                            $9.60

Tenancy                             Multiple

Clear Ceiling Height          10 ft.

Lot Size                              3 SF

1307 Ball Street, Perry, Ga

Reduced Price        $1,425,000

Lot Size                   2 acres

Building Size           15,000 sf

Utilities                    All available

Parking                    76 spaces

706 Macon Terrace, Perry, Ga

Price                                   $37, 500 per unit

No. Units                             10

Building Size                       9,000 SF

Lot Size                                0.73 AC

Georgia Commercial Real Estate

Business Incentive Brochure

For help finding financial resources, contact the Georgia Department of Economic Development at 404-962-4822 

FINANCIAL RESOURCES

Financial resources, credit resources and business capital are available for existing Georgia businesses, small businesses and entrepreneurs. From state assistance to federal resources and venture capitalists, the Georgia Department of Economic Development helps find the right financial solutions for businesses of all sizes.

With 98 percent of Georgia’s businesses defined as small or medium sized, the impact they have on Georgia’s economy is critical. To help these entrepreneurs reach their goals, a special menu of small business resources is available that includes funding, business-to-business opportunities and start-up assistance. Explore financial resources for small businesses

TOP FINANCIAL RESOURCES FOR GEORGIA BUSINESSES

Advanced Technology Development Center at Georgia Tech (ATDC)Start-up incubator and accelerator with more than 130 graduates. ATDC operates a seed fund that offers a partial match of private investments, up to $1 million.

Appalachian Regional Commission Business Development Revolving Loan FundA $3 million loan pool available for projects that create or save jobs in the Appalachian region.

Appalachian Regional Commission Economic Development Grant Program

Provides matching grants for projects to bring jobs to distressed areas in the Appalachian region. Applicants should develop projects in cooperation with one of the six Regional Development Centers in north Georgia.

Industrial Revenue Bonds and Bond Allocation ProgramBond program for companies that will create jobs or expand access to affordable housing. IRBs provide below-market financing for manufacturers.

CDBG Loan Guarantee Program (Section 108 Program)

Federally funded loan program that helps local governments in financing large-scale economic development projects.

Employment Incentive Program (EIP)

Financing program that may be combined with traditional private financing to fund economic development projects. Priority is given to projects that will improve working conditions for low- and moderate-income people.

Georgia’s Regional Commissions

Twelve regional offices throughout the state that work closely with local officials and financial institutions to promote economic development, planning and infrastructure.

OneGeorgia Authority

Provides financing for projects that benefit rural Georgia. Awards may be used for business relocation, infrastructure development, land acquisition and machinery purchases.

United States Small Business Administration (SBA)

Assists small businesses with loans, grants, bonds and other support services.