The Olympics may be a fading memory, but business is as bright as ever in Atlanta--just ask its entrepreneurs. It costs less to launch a business here than in other major U.S. markets, thanks to a laissez-faire philosophy resulting in less government interference and no sales tax on services. The Games of '96 are not to be forgotten, however; profitable repercussions are expected for decades to come.
Business development is nourished--the community boasts 10 colleges with entrepreneurial programs--a boost helpful to the many downsized executives from AT&T and IBM, which both have offices here, who are looking to become sole proprietors.
Atlanta's multifaceted economy is supported by a variety of industries. United Parcel Service's (UPS) headquarters is here, and light manufacturing continues its hold, thanks to local Ford and GM plants. Other healthy markets include service, aerospace, trucking, construction, retail, software, technical and personnel. The latest U.S. Census Report ranks Atlanta eighth in the nation for the number of women-owned businesses and fifth for minority-owned businesses.
A lack of venture capital and skilled labor hinders many of Atlanta's businesses. And despite a strong foundation, keeping up with technology is a concern for this flower of the South, though it remains optimistic that high-tech will blossom in coming years.
This article was originally published in the October 1997 print edition of Entrepreneur with the headline: 20 Best Cities For Small Business.
Life insurance as low as $14/mo for $250,000 or $21/mo for $500,000 of coverage. Contact MetLife®
Comments: