ATLANTA – State Representative Arlene Beckles (D-Norcross) encourages small business owners across House District 96 to take advantage of an opportunity to strengthen their financial literacy and access capital through the second Small Business Financial Clinic: Path to Capital Series, beginning on March 3, 2026.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and the heart of our communities in House District 96,” said Rep. Beckles. “As someone who has worked across finance, banking and business sectors throughout my career, I understand the challenges entrepreneurs face when trying to access capital. I’m thrilled to continue supporting this program, which provides the practical tools, individualized coaching and direct lender access that can make the difference between a business surviving and a business thriving.”
Following the success of the inaugural program, the six-week series—presented in partnership with ACE Women’s Business Center and Sage—returns to offer completely free training to help Georgia entrepreneurs enhance their financial management skills and prepare for business growth. Only 25 dedicated entrepreneurs will be selected for this hybrid program.
The program features bi-weekly trainings totaling 12 hours, one-on-one coaching sessions, hands-on business planning, real-world tools and templates and direct access to lenders. Participants will gain practical knowledge in financial management, business planning and funding strategies under the guidance of Eric Bonaparte, Ph.D., MBA, of The Napoleon Group, LLC, who brings over 35 years of experience helping entrepreneurs launch ventures, secure funding and achieve growth.
The program is open to all industries. To be eligible, businesses must be in operation for two or more years, have at least $150,000 in annual revenue and be located in Georgia.
“Georgia is home to ‘Transaction Alley,’ where 70 percent of the nation’s electronic transactions are processed,” added Rep. Beckles. “We have a robust business ecosystem, and I want to ensure that small business owners in House District 96 have every advantage to participate fully in our state’s economic success.”
Interested business owners can apply at https://tinyurl.com/2ybxzu9e.
Representative Arlene Beckles represents the citizens of District 96, which includes a portion of Gwinnett County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2024 and currently serves on the Special Rules, State Properties and Technology and Infrastructure Innovation committees.
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