Building your startup can be both exciting and daunting. One of the biggest questions you’ll want to consider is where to locate your business. With a high prevalence of tech startups and a low cost of living, Georgia should be at the top of your list.
One thing that sets Georgia apart from other states is the diversity of its small business owners. According to the 2018 Small Business Profile by the U.S. Small Business Administration, of the one million small businesses in Georgia, 371,524 are minority-owned. Small businesses account for 99.6 percent of all business in Georgia, and the professional, scientific, and technical services sector is made up of 58.2 percent small businesses. In Georgia, you’re in good company with your new startup.
Another thing that sets Georgia apart is its business-friendly tax code. Small business tax relief and investor tax credits mean more money stays with your business to help it grow and succeed. For example, Georgia offers tax credits to businesses in telecommunications and processing, as well as to businesses producing film, television, and digital entertainment. In its annual Small Business Friendliness Survey, Thumbtack rated Georgia an A-plus for its business-friendly tax code and an A for overall business friendliness.
How do you know if a state has the right business environment for your company? Do your research, ask trusted business partners and mentors, and factor in information on business friendliness, cost of living, and your own preferences as to where you’d like to live and work.
