Entrepreneurship
Metro Export Challenge
The Atlanta Metro Export Challenge is a year-long program powered by the Metro Atlanta Chamber. This program is designed to assist local businesses in expanding globally.
Through the program, selected companies receive a $5,000 reimbursement grant that can be used for expenses related to their international business growth. Program participants also receive tailored mentorship to assist in the development of their global sales plans and go-to-market strategies.
For questions on the Metro Export Challenge, email globalcommerce@macoc.com
Women Entrepreneurship Initiative
The Women Entrepreneurship Initiative is a cohort-style incubator program focusing on business analysis, learning and leadership development, strategic partnerships, and funding opportunities.
This 15-month program provides community outreach, educational workshops and mentorship engagement for women in entrepreneurship.
Women-led, early-stage startups in the Atlanta area are eligible to apply to the WEI cohort. Learn more about eligibility requirements here, and keep an eye out for upcoming opportunities to apply for their next cohort.
Prospera
Prospera is an economic development, non-profit organization that specializes in providing bilingual assistance to Hispanic and Latino entrepreneurs trying to establish or expand their business. Prospera offers business consulting, seminars, business advancement services (business/marketing plans, legal assessments), and access to capital.
Schedule a free consultation with their Georgia branch here, or by calling 678-904-0944. Check out their upcoming webinars here.
Start:ME at Emory University
The StartMicro Enterprise Accelerator Program (Start:ME) is a free small business training program offered by Emory University that offers hands-on training, mentor support, and grant opportunities. This place-based program serves Clarkston, East Lake, and Southside Atlanta, and it operates in partnership with several community organizations.
Each cohort-style program runs annually from January-April, and brings together Emory’s Goizueta Business School, community organizations, mentors, and sponsors to support rising entrepreneurs.
Check out their 2023 Impact Report here, and keep an eye out for opportunities to apply for their next cohort.
If you don’t have a strong tie to one of Start:ME’s communities (Clarkston, East Lake, and Southside Atlanta), you can still access their other resources, which include workshops around Business Development, Marketing and Storytelling, and Finance and Accounting.
Accion Opportunity Fund
The Accion Opportunity Fund offers small-business loans, education resources, and comprehensive, one-on-one business coaching services for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Services are currently available in English and Spanish.
Learn more about their services here, and check out their YouTube page for video resources.