On April 4, 2022, Fulton County began to accept applications from small business owners who continue to be in dire need of financial support due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of our economy and many have not yet recovered from the pandemic,” said Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts. “So many were forced to layoff employees, temporarily close and face a scary, uncertain future. We must never stop doing all we can to help them get back on their feet and ensure they succeed.”
This second round of $3.9 million in available loans has been made possible by the American Rescue Plan. It offers each business owner up to $100,000, double the amount Fulton County provided in 2021. Small businesses will not only receive money, but also important business counseling, education and a variety of support services.
Chairman Pitts has seen firsthand the real-life stories that illustrate the enormous value of these small business loans. This week, he met with Felicia Parks, a female veteran who worked hard to establish her local Jimmy John’s sandwich shop. Then, the pandemic hit.
“She suffered financially and emotionally, and was heartbroken,” said Pitts. “She received a $25,000 loan from the County’s program in 2021, re-established her business and is now looking to the future. This is one of many success stories, and I am confident with this new funding that there will be many more.”
The 2022 loan program will again be administered in partnership with Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE).
“I led the charge with this loan program last year, and I’m more excited now as we are providing double the amount of money to small businesses in need,” said Pitts. “We truly are a leader, locally and nationally, in identifying ways to help small business owners. They know we stand behind them and always will. Everyone benefits from their success.”