Believe the HYPE: DeKalb County Small Business Summit is Empowering Entrepreneurs for Economic Resilience DeKalb County Small Business Summit 2025: Empowering Entrepreneurs www.thehypemagazine.com – The Hype Magazine The Hype Magazine

Believe the HYPE: DeKalb County Small Business Summit is Empowering Entrepreneurs for Economic ResilienceStone Mountain, GA — September 9, 2025 — The DeKalb County Small Business Summit 2025 convened on September 4, 2025, at the Emory Conference Center Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia. Hosted by DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Decide DeKalb Development Authority, and the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, this pivotal event brought together over 250 entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community leaders to address the theme: “Navigating Small Businesses During Uncertain Economic Times” dekalb.chambermaster.com.A Hub for Entrepreneurial GrowthThe summit served as a dynamic platform for local entrepreneurs to access vital resources, forge meaningful connections, and gain insights into sustaining and scaling their businesses amidst economic challenges. The event featured four expert-led panel sessions covering:Starting a Business in an Uncertain ClimateFunding, Grants & Financial Solutions: Surviving Economic InstabilityBecoming a Vendor & Doing Business with DeKalb County GovernmentLeveraging Technology and Innovation for Business GrowthInsights from Industry LeadersA standout moment was the keynote address by James “Jay” Bailey, President & CEO of the H.J. Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE). Under Bailey’s leadership, RICE has become the world’s largest entrepreneurial hub dedicated to growing, scaling, and developing Black businesses. Bailey’s vision and commitment to fostering economic mobility resonated deeply with attendees, inspiring many to pursue innovative paths in their entrepreneurial journeys.Networking and Strategic PartnershipsThroughout the day, attendees engaged in networking sessions that facilitated partnerships between small businesses and key county officials, including the Chief Procurement Officer. These interactions aimed to streamline processes for local businesses to become vendors and secure contracts with DeKalb County Government, thereby enhancing their growth prospects.A Commitment to Economic VitalityCEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson emphasized the county’s dedication to supporting small businesses, stating, “Small businesses are the backbone of DeKalb’s economy. My administration is committed to ensuring that entrepreneurs have the resources, training, and access to opportunities they need to grow and thrive”.Looking AheadThe success of the 2025 summit underscores DeKalb County’s ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where small businesses can thrive. As the county continues to prioritize economic development, events like the Small Business Summit play a crucial role in empowering entrepreneurs to navigate challenges and seize opportunities for growth.For more information on upcoming events and resources for small businesses in DeKalb County, visit the DeKalb County Government website.



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