76.2%
of Georgia's 2024 job growth came from small businesses
Start & Grow Your Business
Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, Decide DeKalb offers a range of resources to support your business journey in DeKalb County. From events and workshops to funding opportunities, there’s a resource for you at any stage of your business journey.
Doing Business in DeKalb County? Here’s Your Guide
Starting and running a business in DeKalb County means tapping into one of Georgia’s most active communities. With 13 municipalities, a highly educated workforce, and a network of public and private partners committed to business success, DeKalb County offers entrepreneurs the tools, connections, and resources to move from idea to operation — and from operation to growth. The DeKalb County Small Business Resource Guide was built to make that process clearer and more accessible.
Whether you’re launching your first business or expanding an existing one, this guide walks you through the steps that matter most: understanding business structures, securing the right licenses, staying compliant, finding financing, and connecting with local support organizations. Because requirements can vary across DeKalb’s cities and unincorporated areas, the guide is organized to help you find information specific to your location quickly. Consider it your starting point and a resource you can return to as your business changes and grows.
DeKalb Ranks among Georgia’s Top 5 Counties for Small Business Creation & Growth
1.7M
Georgia residents are employed by small businesses
20K
Small businesses in DeKalb
Community Business Events
South DeKalb “Popup” Business Incubator
The South DeKalb “Popup” Business Incubator is an event series created to support small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.
Through hands-on workshops and valuable networking opportunities, participants can access technical assistance, explore loan and grant options, and get guidance on licensing and permitting—all aimed at helping businesses grow and succeed in DeKalb County.
Business Resources 101
Business Resources 101 is a recurring, community-focused event hosted by the Decide DeKalb Development Authority in partnership with the Better Business Bureau.
Designed to empower local businesses, these events offer direct access to experts in workforce development, business education, funding opportunities, compliance, and regional networking. While these events are free and open to the public, registration is required as space is limited.
DeKalb’s thriving small business community is built on the strength of its diverse entrepreneurs, who are not just building businesses, but also enriching our neighborhoods and driving innovation.
—Dorian DeBarr, Decide DeKalb President
Small Business Loan Fund & Technical Assistance
Decide DeKalb Small Business Loan
The Decide DeKalb Small Business Loan program is designed to fuel the growth of local entrepreneurs with the capital and support they need to succeed.
This initiative pairs competitive financing with one-on-one technical assistance to help businesses expand, hire, and thrive. Whether you’re purchasing equipment or launching new services, this program is open to businesses across DeKalb County, including those in its cities.
Other Loan Opportunities
Contact:
Katrina Young
Business Retention & Expansion Manager
