Governor Brian. P. Kemp joined the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Georgia Economic Developers Association to recognize Georgia’s 2019 “Small Business ROCK STARS” at an annual luncheon at the Georgia Aquarium today. Four Georgia-based companies were recognized for being outstanding, unique and impactful small businesses.

“As a small business owner for over thirty years, I am thrilled to declare March 18-22 Small Business Week in Georgia,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “Georgia’s small businesses are the driving force behind our successful economy and create jobs across our state – no matter the zip code. Congratulations to the 2019 Small Business ROCK STARS on your achievements, and thank you for calling Georgia home.”

This year’s 2019 Small Business ROCK STARS are:

• ASW Distillery: Atlanta (Fulton County); Nine Employees

• InPrime Legal: Marietta (Cobb County); 11 Employees

• Oyster Fine Bamboo Fly Rods: Blue Ridge (Fannin County); Nine Employees

• Southern Fiber Worx: Cordele (Crisp County); Six Employees

“Our small businesses truly reflect Georgia’s entrepreneurial spirit and fuel job growth, and I couldn’t be more proud to put a spotlight on our 2019 Small Business ROCK STARS,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “With nearly 800,000 registered small businesses in our state, supporting them is a critical component to our economic development success in Georgia.”

The Georgia Department of Economic Development's Entrepreneur and Small Business team created the Small Business ROCK STARS program to bring awareness of the important role that small businesses have in Georgia's communities and economy. The 2019 Small Business ROCK STARS were recognized for having a big impact in their communities including increases in revenue, sales, exporting, product lines, job creation and overall economic impact. GDEcD and GEDA received more than 350 nominations, an increase of 600 percent over 2018. Of the nominations received for 2019, 75 Georgia counties were represented and 59 percent of the nominations were located outside of Metro Atlanta. The nominations were reviewed by a panel of judges.

“Every small business is significant and the Georgia Economic Developers Association welcomes the opportunity to shine the spotlight on our small businesses,” said GEDA President Kevin Shea. “We are grateful to be able to partner with the Georgia Department of Economic Development and Georgia CEO to sponsor this annual awards luncheon. Congratulations to all of our nominees and a special nod to the 2019 winners.”

At the luncheon Governor Kemp declared March 18-22, 2019 as Georgia Small Business Week to celebrate the achievements made my small businesses throughout the state.

To access more information about the state’s small business resources, visit www.georgia.org/smallbusiness.