ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT
HOW TO START A BUSINESS
Why should you choose the City of Lavonia as a location for a new business or Industry? Below are answers to frequently asked questions about the process of opening a new business here. We want to do everything we can to streamline this process and make it easier for you. Additional sources of information, and people to contact, include:
> The Lavonia Chamber of Commerce
> The Lavonia Downtown Development Authority
Frequent Questions:
Who can tell me what buildings are available for purchase or lease in downtown Lavonia?
Marie Morse of the Downtown Development Authority can provide you with information about available downtown buildings that are for sale or rent, prices, and owners’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers. You can contact Mrs. Morse either by telephone, at 706-356-1926 or email using the link below.
Do you have a current business directory?
A current business directory is available online, with business and industry organized according to type, under Chamber of Commerce, Al Goldsmith, at the Chamber of Commerce will have additional information.
What is the average rent, per square foot of space, in the downtown area, for both commercial and industrial businesses?
Al Goldsmith, at the Chamber Office, can provide you with up-to-date statistics about current costs associated with renting/leasing property in the downtown area. Mr. Goldsmith can be reached at the Chamber at 706-356-8202.
Does the city or county offer any tax incentives or other assistance to businesses (retail or industrial) wishing to locate in Lavonia?
The city does offer some tax incentives for industries wishing to locate in Lavonia. For further information, contact Charles Cawthon, City Manager, at 706-356-8781. Additional information may also be obtained by contacting the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, at 706-356-4659.
Why should I locate here?
Depending on the type of business you are interested in starting, you will want to research local and county demographical information, such as population, average per capita income, how many service providers for your business type already exist, and other similar data. This information can be obtained by searching our Demographic data, or by contacting the Lavonia Chamber of Commerce and the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. Also, check out the following valuable Online resources for additional market demographic information:
Georgia 2000 – A statewide demographics database maintained by the University of Georgia Carl Vinson Institute of Government
Quick Links
> Georgia Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism
> Georgia’s Workforce Development Alliance
> Georgia Department of Community Affairs Economic Development Programs
> Georgia Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Programs
> Workforce and Business Development Resources
