The Atlanta BeltLine has always been about more than just public infrastructure; it’s a vision of an interconnected community, thriving businesses, and a vibrant urban environment. One of the key components of this transformative initiative is the BeltLine Business Ventures program.
Launched by the BeltLine Business Solutions Office, in partnership with The Center by Lendistry and CVM Worldwide, the small business accelerator aims to provide tailored services to scaling businesses. The program is designed to engage local business owners and provide them with key resources to prepare them for brick and mortar opportunities along the BeltLine.
The program is being rolled out in three cohorts: Fall 2023, Winter/Spring 2024, and Summer/Fall 2024, with each session hosting up to 25 promising ventures. The inaugural cohort has successfully completed its journey. Over the past three months, these businesses have acquired tools to scale and enhance their presence along the BeltLine:
One entrepreneur from the first cohort reflects, “BeltLine Business Ventures is boosting my confidence and preparing me to launch a commercial space along the BeltLine. The cohort provided me with real-life examples and insights, directly from business owners who are working on the BeltLine. For anyone interested in applying to BeltLine Business Ventures, my advice is they should definitely go for it. The access to consultants in legal, retail, and real estate is a game-changer. This is an opportunity to gain new perspectives that could very well propel your business from small to big,” said Teneka Williams, Owner, Royal Petals ATL.
This program is more than just a business boost; it’s our pledge to keep Atlanta’s heart beating strong with local enterprises that uphold the BeltLine’s core values of community, innovation, and sustainability.
Is Your Business Ready to be the Next BeltLine Success?
The next cohort of BeltLine Business Ventures is now accepting applications! If you own a business within the BeltLine Planning Area— especially if it’s in Subareas 1,2,9, or 10, we encourage you to apply. Participation for each business is free.
Ideal program candidates are:
- For-profit businesses organized as a corporation or LLC
- Businesses with at least 2 years of operating experience
- Businesses with gross annual revenues of at least $250,000
- Businesses with 2 years of financial statements
- Businesses with at least 3 employees (including the business owner)
- Actively considering expanding their business with a brick-and-mortar space
Timeline
- Applications Open: November 20
- Applications Close: January 5, 2024
- Notification of Acceptance into Programming/Onboarding Information: January 12, 2024
- Company Orientation: January 30, 2024
- Sessions: February 6, 2024 – May 14, 2024
Want to Learn More?
If you are a small business/entrepreneur or potential partner and would like more information, join the informational webinar hosted by Atlanta BeltLine, Inc., in partnership with The Center and CVM Worldwide.
Informational Webinar | November 29 | 12pm ET | Register here
You can also email: BeltLineVentures@atlbeltline.org
Ready to Apply?
Click here.
