Accelerating Your Food Business Workshop Connects Southwest Georgia Entrepreneurs

June 25, 2026

Georgia Grown Resource Center Albany Holds First Workshop

Food entrepreneurs from across Southwest Georgia recently gathered in Albany for Accelerating Your Food Business, a workshop hosted by Georgia Grown Albany Business Coordinator Kirsten Hayes in partnership with the Georgia Tech Food and Beverage Accelerator.

The workshop brought together aspiring and established food business owners for a day focused on education, networking, and business growth. Participants gained valuable insights into scaling operations, navigating industry challenges, accessing available resources, and identifying opportunities to strengthen and expand their businesses.

As the first workshop hosted by Hayes in her role as Georgia Grown Albany Business Coordinator, the event highlighted the importance of providing local entrepreneurs with access to expert guidance and industry connections that can help move their businesses forward.

“Our goal is to ensure food entrepreneurs in Southwest Georgia have access to the tools, resources, and expertise needed to grow successfully,” said Kirsten Hayes. “By bringing together industry experts and local business owners, we are helping create opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and long-term success.”

Throughout the workshop, attendees heard from professionals with experience in food production, distribution, marketing, and business development. Sessions focused on practical strategies for growing food-based businesses while connecting participants with organizations and resources designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage of development.

The partnership between the Georgia Grown Resource Center and the Georgia Tech Food and Beverage Accelerator reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Georgia’s food and agricultural economy by supporting local businesses and fostering entrepreneurship.

Programs like Accelerating Your Food Business play an important role in helping small businesses navigate growth challenges, build industry relationships, and access resources that contribute to long-term success. By investing in entrepreneurs and providing opportunities for education and collaboration, Southwest Georgia continues to strengthen its business ecosystem and support the growth of locally owned companies.

The Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission is proud to support initiatives that connect entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and partnerships needed to help their businesses thrive.