Georgia has a history of welcoming fresh thinking and is home to both major corporations and small ventures. There are many reasons to start a business in Georgia: a lively start-up community, advantageous transportation infrastructure, resources that make business formation more accessible, and a state gross domestic product (GDP) of over $661 billion in 2023.

Below, we’ll explain how to start a business in Georgia, from the legal steps for doing so to recommended industries and available resources for entrepreneurs.

What’s in this article?

• Why start a business in Georgia?
  
• What are the legal steps to start a business in Georgia?
  
• What industries see the most success in Georgia?
  
• What resources are available for entrepreneurs in Georgia?
  

Why start a business in Georgia?

Starting a business in Georgia can be a great choice for several reasons. Here’s why many entrepreneurs find Georgia appealing.

Business-friendly climate

Georgia consistently ranks as one of the top US states for doing business due to its pro-business policies, such as low corporate taxes and less restrictive regulations. The state’s corporate income tax rate is a flat 5.75%, which is lower than those of states such as California and New York.

Access to a skilled workforce

Georgia has a large, diverse talent pool thanks to its strong education system and workforce training programmes such as Georgia Quick Start, which provides free customised training for new or expanding businesses.

Strong transportation infrastructure

The state has Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world in 2023, which makes it easy to connect with global markets. Georgia also has major interstate highways, deepwater ports (such as the Port of Savannah), and a well-connected rail system.

Affordable cost of living

Georgia has a lower cost of living than almost half the states, which helps entrepreneurs and their employees reduce their expenses.

Diverse economy

Georgia has a thriving economy with opportunities in many sectors, including technology, agriculture, film production, manufacturing, and logistics. Atlanta, in particular, is a hub for tech start-ups, while rural areas provide opportunities in farming and manufacturing.

Tax incentives

Georgia has a range of tax incentives for businesses, including:

• Job tax credits for creating jobs in specific industries or regions

• Film and entertainment tax credits for film and TV productions

• The Port Tax Credit Bonus for companies that increase their use of Georgia’s ports

Support for small businesses

Organisations such as Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and the Georgia Chamber of Commerce provide free or low-cost consulting, workshops, and networking opportunities. There are also strong entrepreneurial communities, especially in Atlanta, Savannah, and Athens.

Quality of life

Georgia’s mix of urban and rural environments, mild climate, and cultural attractions make it a great place to live and work. Atlanta, for example, is a vibrant city with a growing tech scene, while coastal cities such as Savannah offer charming sights and tourism-driven opportunities.

Supportive communities

Georgia has several incubators, accelerators, and coworking spaces that nurture start-ups, such as Atlanta Tech Village and the Creative Coast in Savannah. Georgia’s affordability, infrastructure, and resources make it an ideal location for entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses in a supportive environment.

What are the legal steps to start a business in Georgia?

Here are the steps to start a business in Georgia.

Choose a business structure

Decide on the type of business entity you want to form: sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC), or corporation. An LLC is a common choice for small businesses because it offers liability protection.

Pick a business name

Choose a unique name that fits your business and isn’t already in use. Check name availability on the Georgia Corporations Division website. If you’re forming an LLC or corporation, the name must include the proper suffix (e.g., “LLC,” “Inc.”). If you’re operating under a different name such as a “doing business as” (DBA) or trade name, you’ll register that locally with your county.

Register your business

Register your business with Georgia’s secretary of state if you’re forming an LLC, corporation, or limited partnership. You can register online, by post, or in person. To form an LLC, you’ll need to file articles of organisation. To form a corporation, you’ll need to file articles of incorporation. You’ll need to provide basic details such as your business name, address, and information about your registered agent (the person or service that receives legal documents for your business).

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN is like a Social Security number for your business that’s used for taxes and hiring employees. Sole proprietorships and LLCs without employees don’t need an EIN, but it can still be useful to get one to separate business finances from personal finances. You can apply online for free through the website of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Open a business bank account

Use your EIN to open a business bank account. Keeping personal and business finances separate makes accounting easier and protects your liability.

Check licensing requirements

Depending on your industry, you might need specific licences or permits. For example, food businesses need health permits and contractors might need professional licences. Check with Georgia’s Professional Licensing Boards Division for details.

Register for taxes

If you sell goods or services subject to sales or use tax, register with the Georgia Department of Revenue. It will give you a sales and use tax number. You can register online through the Georgia Tax Center. Depending on your setup, you might also need to handle payroll taxes or corporate income tax.

Secure necessary insurance

Workers’ compensation insurance is legally required if you have three or more employees. Liability insurance is often a good investment to protect your business.

Get local permits and zoning clearance

Depending on your location, you might need a local business licence, permit, or zoning approval. Check with your city or county government for specific requirements.

File an annual registration

Georgia requires annual registration for limited partnerships, LLCs, and corporations. The registration is due 1 April and can be completed online through the Corporations Division.

What industries see the most success in Georgia?

Here are a few industries that consistently stand out in Georgia:

• Film and TV production: You’ve probably seen the “Made in Georgia” peach logo appear at the end of a film or TV show. Generous tax credits have transformed the state into a production magnet. If you’re in a related field – equipment rental, set design, post-production, makeup artistry, stunt coordination – you could find a ready market in Georgia.

• Agribusiness: Peaches, peanuts, and poultry are classic Georgian staples. There’s also a place for speciality farming, including organic produce, artisanal cheeses, and niche horticulture – as well as advanced processing, packaging, and supply chain angles.

• Fintech and software: Midtown Atlanta hosts a busy start-up scene. You’ll encounter entrepreneurs who are developing payment apps, cybersecurity solutions, and e-commerce software. Georgia Tech, Emory, and the University of Georgia cultivate graduates with the coding, analytics, and business skills that fuel these sectors.

• Logistics and distribution: Between the Ports of Savannah and Brunswick, the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport, and a solid highway network, Georgia is a shipping and warehousing titan. Freight companies and third-party logistics providers benefit from these infrastructure perks.

• Tourism and hospitality: Tourists flock to Georgia to see it all: scenic mountains in North Georgia, the big-city hustle in Atlanta, beaches along the coast, and historic towns such as Savannah. That means hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, tour operators, event planners, and restaurants can thrive if they cater to travellers’ tastes.

What resources are available for entrepreneurs in Georgia?

Georgia has a wealth of resources for entrepreneurs, whether you’re starting your first venture or scaling an established business. If you’re looking for access to capital, check out the following:

• Invest Georgia: A state venture capital fund that supports early-stage businesses.

• Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE): A non-profit that provides loans and coaching to small businesses, particularly those owned by women, minorities, and underserved entrepreneurs.

• Small Business Administration (SBA) loans: Georgia has many SBA lenders that provide financing with favourable terms.

For tax credits and incentives, look into the following:

• Job tax credits: These are granted for creating jobs in certain areas or industries.

• Research and development (R&D) tax credits: These are for businesses that invest in R&D.

• Film tax credits: These are for film and TV productions and post-production.

If you’re looking for a coworking space, networking opportunities, or contract gigs for your business, consider the following:

• Collaboration Station: A collaborative workspace and community for entrepreneurs in Columbus.

• Georgia Quick Start: A free programme for workforce training when you’re hiring or expanding.

• Georgia Chamber of Commerce: A local association with networking opportunities, advocacy, and events specific to businesses across industries.

• Metro Atlanta Chamber: An organisation that promotes business growth in the Atlanta region.

• Georgia Procurement Registry: An online government tool that helps businesses find state contracting opportunities.

The organisations below provide a range of business resources.

SBDCs

The University of Georgia SBDC is a go-to resource for free or low-cost business consulting and training. It has multiple locations across the state and offers:

• Business planning assistance

• Market research

• Financial projections

• Workshops on topics such as marketing, funding, and business growth

Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD)

The GDEcD is the state’s main agency for supporting businesses. It can provide:

• Export assistance for businesses that want to go global

• Information on state tax credits and incentives

• Industry-specific support (e.g., film, tech, agriculture)

• Networking opportunities with other entrepreneurs and industry leaders

SCORE

SCORE Atlanta connects entrepreneurs with experienced business mentors. It provides:

• Free one-on-one mentoring

• Workshops on starting and growing a business

• Templates and guides for business plans, financial projections, and more

Atlanta Tech Village

If you’re in the tech space, Atlanta Tech Village is a hub for start-ups. It provides:

• Coworking spaces designed for collaboration

• Networking events and meetups

• Access to mentors, investors, and potential partners

The Creative Coast

Entrepreneurs in Savannah and the surrounding areas can tap into the Creative Coast, which supports improvement and startups. Services include:

• Start-up accelerator programmes

• Networking events and pitch competitions

• Resources for creative industries

Georgia’s Innovation Crescent

This coalition connects entrepreneurs in life sciences and technology with resources and partners. The focus is on promoting improvement in fields such as healthcare, agriculture, and tech.