DeKalb’s Economic Engine Roars: Economic Development Week Brought Together Hundreds of People — From Workforce to Small Businesses to the Entertainment Industry
Decide DeKalb’s Economic Development Week 2024 was part of a global initiative led by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) that aimed to highlight the importance of economic development and its impact on communities worldwide. This year, Economic Development Week was held May 6-10 in DeKalb County.
Decide DeKalb hosted a series of programs that gave community and business leaders, as well as aspiring business leaders, access to information to help them do business and thrive in DeKalb. Programs covered commercial real estate, film and entertainment, manufacturing, logistics and light industrial career opportunities, and more.
“Our goal was to celebrate growth and prosperity in DeKalb County and stimulate more success by getting the right information to the right people who can use it to invest in our community,” said Dorian DeBarr, President of Decide DeKalb. Hear more from Dorian’s interview with Rashad Richey below:
“Throughout the week, we showcased the incredible opportunities available in DeKalb County and resources within Decide DeKalb,” added Randi Mason, VP of Economic Development at Decide DeKalb. “Through these programs, we aim to empower individuals, support businesses, and foster collaboration to drive sustainable economic growth and prosperity in our community.”
As a key player in fostering development and vitality in the region, Decide DeKalb is committed to providing valuable resources and support to businesses and entrepreneurs. During Economic Development Week 2024, events were designed to educate, empower, and connect individuals with the tools they need to succeed in today’s economy.
Recap of Events During Economic Development Week:
At Business Resources 101 on Monday, May 6th at the Tucker Recreation Center in partnership with the City of Tucker and the Better Business Bureau of Atlanta, nearly one hundred attendees learned more about funding organizations and insights to help grow their business in DeKalb.
On Monday, May 6th at the Lakehouse of Avondale Estates, the DeKalb Entertainment Commission and Georgia Production Partners hosted an event where nearly 100 people gathered to network and learn about opportunities to engage in the film and television industry.
The ABCs of TADs (Tax Allocation Districts) on May 7 was a virtual webinar led by Decide DeKalb’s President and resident TAD expert Dorian DeBarr. He shared the ins and outs of this economic development tool and how it helps spark positive change.
Opportunity Unveiled: Everything You Need to Know About State Opportunity Zones was a virtual webinar held Tuesday, May 7th with valuable information about State Opportunity Zones and how businesses can leverage this program to spur investment in the area.
On Wed. May 8th, Decide DeKalb held the graduation for the MADE In DeKalb Educator program at the DeKalb Conference Center. The program equips teachers with tools and resources to direct students in the manufacturing and logistics industries.
Finally, on Thursday, May 9th, at the DeKalb History Center, the Decide DeKalb team thanked community members, peers and stakeholders with an event called Sunset in DeKalb to connect and celebrate the economic vibrancy of DeKalb County.
Decide DeKalb’s Economic Development Week 2024 successfully connected businesses and individuals with the resources they need to thrive. This collaborative effort not only highlighted DeKalb’s potential but also fostered a spirit of partnership, paving the way for a future of shared economic success.
For more about doing business in DeKalb County, contact us at Decide DeKalb.