Nominations for 2025 will open on Monday, August 5, 2024 and close on Thursday, October 31, 2024.

The State of Georgia recognizes and values the dedication and entrepreneurial spirit of Georgia’s small businesses that keep the state’s economy strong by proclaiming Georgia Small Business Week during the first week of May. 

Every year the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) and the Georgia Economic Developers Association team up to present a few outstanding small businesses with the title of Small Business ROCK STARS. 

The awards salute the risks taken, innovations, outreach, and impact of the state’s small businesses. 

The awards salute the risks taken, innovations, outreach, and impact of the state’s small businesses. 

Each of this year’s winners have fewer than 300 full-time employees, make a positive impact in their community, and were founded in the State of Georgia. 

Since its inception in 2013, the Georgia Small Business ROCK STARS program has garnered more than 4,000 nominations and honored more than 50 small businesses as Small Business ROCK STARS. 

What constitutes a small business in Georgia? 

You must be independently owned and operated, plus have fewer than 300 employees, or bring in less than $30 million in annual gross receipts. 

Just like any company, small businesses in Georgia are extremely diverse in their structure and design. Follow the links below for helpful resources for business owners of all types and learn about Georgia’s diversity in entrepreneurship.