The UGA SBDC offers access to confidential, no-cost, one-on-one professional business consulting for Georgia small business owners who want to grow or start their business. Our consultants have earned advanced degrees in business or management and have extensive practical experience to help both emerging and growing businesses design strategies to make better business decisions and reach their goals.

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Our consulting expertise focuses on areas that are vital to accelerating the growth of businesses. Some of these areas are:

  • Marketing
  • Strategic Planning
  • Accessing Capital
  • Financial Analysis and Accounting Assistance
  • International Trade
  • Procurement
  • Business Management

Our consultants can help you:

  • Develop and update business plans
  • Identify sources of capital
  • Set up record-keeping systems and analyze financial records
  • Identify foreign markets for products or services
  • Conduct specialized research geared to specific needs of the business-owner
  • Create marketing strategies and advertising campaigns
  • Explore suitable ways to conform to government regulations
  • Increase opportunities to sell to federal, state, and local governments
  • Analyze statistical and demographic data

Is there a cost?

No, consulting is provided at no cost to Georgia small business owners. All clients, their businesses, and related information are kept strictly confidential – we will not provide your information to anyone without your permission.

How do I get started?

  1. To get started, contact a local SBDC office. We have 18 locations across the state of Georgia. Completion of the Business Development Questionnaire (BDQ) may be required. The quickest way for a new business to get in touch with a consultant is to take our “How to Start a Business in Georgia” course. To register for this course, visit our  for upcoming sessions.
  2. If your business is already established, call your local SBDC office and speak with the Program Coordinator or Administrative Assistant. They can answer any questions you may have and guide you in the right direction to meet with one of our consultants.
  3. After you have completed the BDQ, or, have completed the Request for Consulting Application, you will be contacted by one of our consultants to get started on your path to success.