Atlanta Housing and Partners Break Ground on $63.6M Bowen Homes Redevelopment

Ceremony launches Bowen transformation with 151 new units

ATLANTA – Atlanta Housing (AH) and its public-private partners broke ground today on Bowen Homes Phase I, a $63.6 million redevelopment project set to revitalize the historic Bowen Homes site and the Carey Park neighborhood. Leaders from Invest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Centene Foundation, Peach State Health Plan and development partners McCormack Baron Salazar and The Benoit Group joined in celebrating this milestone, marking the beginning of a transformative, multi-year effort. The redevelopment of Bowen Homes will create a vibrant, mixed-income community and serve as a national model for equitable, community-focused revitalization.

Located in the northwest area of Atlanta, Bowen Phase 1 will add 151 units to Atlanta’s housing inventory, with most of them reserved as affordable.

“Bowen is poised to be a national model for neighborhood transformation, an anchor for progress in Carey Park, and a testament to the power of community-focused redevelopment,” said Atlanta Housing President and CEO Terri Lee. “This project is about more than housing; it’s about empowering people, fostering economic self-sufficiency, and ensuring that families have the support they need to succeed for generations to come.”

This transformational investment is critical as development expands westward from Atlanta’s urban core. Supported in part by a $40 million HUD Choice Neighborhoods Implementation grant and backed by over $523 million in public and private commitments, the project is expected to catalyze broader revitalization along the Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway and James Jackson Parkway corridors.

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Welcome NEW Social Media Content Manager = Antonio Rolle

Antonio Rolle is a seasoned Solution Architect with Innova Forge Works, specializing in web development, back-office software development, graphic design, and digital automation. With a career that began in the 1990s, Antonio has continuously evolved alongside technology, leveraging the latest tools to streamline and enhance website development, social media management, and content creation.

Antonio is also the co-founder of Snug Concerts, a nonprofit dedicated to bringing music lovers closer to the heart of live performances while championing fair pay for artists. Through intimate concert experiences, Snug Concerts ensures that 100% of proceeds go directly to the performers, fostering a sustainable and artist-first music culture in Atlanta.

A resident of Atlanta’s Center Hill neighborhood for nearly eight years, Antonio is deeply invested in the local business and creative communities.  With a passion for innovation and community-driven solutions, Antonio continues to forge new pathways in digital strategy, technology, and the arts.

MARCH SMALL BUSINESS GRANTS
Small-business owners are worried that a variety of factors could hurt their business growth prospects in the months to come.

About 53% of business owners surveyed by the Small Business Majority were worried about tariffs negatively impacting their business, while 77% were worried about tariffs impacting the American economy more broadly.  The survey also found that over the past three months, business revenues decreased for 42% of entrepreneurs and stayed the same for 34% over that period. Just 24% of small businesses reported revenue increases. 

A separate survey from small-business networking platform Alignable found that 30% of small businesses anticipate revenue losses due to tariffs proposed by the Trump administration. Just 18% believe it will boost their sales.

"Small businesses are already navigating a financial minefield — rising costs, inflation, and economic uncertainty," Alignable CEO Eric Groves said in a press release. "Now, the threat of new tariffs could be the breaking point for many.” 

For small businesses looking to bolster their financial state or take their business to the next level amid the uncertainty, we have assembled a list of small-business grants that are open for applications.

Honeycomb Credit offers ‘breakthrough’ grant

Small-business investment platform Honeycomb Credit is offering a $10,000 breakthrough grant to support small businesses achieving their next big step, whether it’s a new location, launching a food truck or franchising. Applicants must own a business to qualify. Applications are due by 11:59 p.m. on April 2, 2025, with the grant winner to be announced by April 11, 2025.

Cognac brand Remy Martin offers $20,000 grants

Creatives and entrepreneurs contributing to their local culture in a few select cities are eligible for the Remy Martin This is My City Microgrant. The grant is for entrepreneurs in Chicago, Detroit, New York City and Atlanta, with a winner in each city getting the money and one-on-one mentorship from an established figure in their field. The grant coincides with the release of limited edition bottles designed to mimic the culture and flavor of each city.

This is My City grant honorees will be announced in June 2025. Applicants can submit their entries on RemyMartin.com/en-us/This-Is-My-City Applications close April 11, 2025.

$5,000 Faire Small-Business Grant

Independent retail stores or those who soon plan to open a retail store can win a $5,000 grant in Faire merchandise to help stock their store. Applicants need to provide a few details and submit a short video on how the grant money would help. Applications are due March 31, 2025, and winners are announced April 30, 2025.

$10,000 DoorDash disaster relief grants

Restaurants across the country hit hard by a natural disaster can apply for $10,000 grants, courtesy of DoorDash.

The Restaurant Disaster Relief Fund, a partnership between DoorDash, financing platform Hello Alice and the Global Entrepreneurship network, is open to restaurants in state or federally declared natural-disaster areas. The grant windows operate on a rolling bases, with four a year.

To be eligible, restaurants must have a brick-and-mortar location, fewer than 50 employees per location, be open at least six months and have less than $3 million in revenue per location.

The first window for applications is open until March 3. Winners will be announced in April.

Additional grants business owners can apply for throughout 2025 include:

• Verizon's Small Business Digital Ready program: Business owners who sign up for the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready online community will be eligible to apply for grants throughout the year. The company provides up to $1 million in grant funding a year.

• The National Science Foundation: The National Science Foundation’s America’s Seed Fund provides millions in grant funding to small businesses and startups with big ideas. The grant program gives out roughly $200 million per year to eligible businesses. 

• The National Association for the Self-Employed: The National Association for the Self-Employed has a $4,000 growth grant that it offers on a rolling basis. Only members are eligible.

Next NWBA General Meeting 

Thursday, March 27 @ 6:00 PM | 2050 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW. DON'T MISS THIS MEETING> RSVP HERE

Meeting Flow

Time	Agenda Item	Speaker / Notes	Meeting Notes / Updates:
6:00 PM	Check-In & Networking	Food & drinks (sponsored by Bankhead Seafood).  Write your name, business name & phone on a card.
6:10 PM	Welcome & Announcements John Mapp Jr., Level Construction, NWBA President	Welcome new board member Welcome new content manager Follow @NWbizatl on IG & FB	Britt Hunter, Focal Point Coaching.  Antiono Rolle, Snug Concerts
6:15 PM	Financial Update Ben Norman, Studio Driven, Treasurer	Bank Balance: $46,743.91  Review of financial statements & budget
6:20 PM	Business Updates Jennifer Ohme, idealDESIGN, Community Development	Business license assistance, resource guide launch (April 2025)  Vendor & workforce opportunities	Please email Welcome@nwba-atl.com for further assistance
6:25 PM	Membership Growth Gail Mapp, Level Construction, Membership Chair	48 members  Join tonight to be in the We Mean Bizness Guide! 11 New Members this month!	New Member:  First Batch Artisan Foods
6:30 PM	Icebreaker & Networking Britt Hunter, Secretary, Focal Point Coaching	Introduction to networking Match & introduce a business partner (30 sec)
6:45 PM	Grove Park Ready Program Eric Fears, Grove Park Foundation	- Monthly business workshops (Marketing, Readiness, Model)	Next session: March 13 @ 6PM
7:00 PM	Upcoming Events	Grove Park 5K (April 26, 8:30 AM)  Neighborhood & NWBA Meeting dates

MEETING RECAP RESOURCES

Category	Resource	Link
Business Resources	NWBA Business Resources	Visit Here
Business License Assistance	Read Blog
NWBA Financials (P&L Statement)	View Here
World Cup Vendor Registration	Register Here
Membership & Events	NWBA Membership Signup	Join Now
Upcoming NWBA Events	Event Calendar
Grove Park 5K Registration	Sign Up
Grove Park Ready	Business Readiness Sessions: 3/13/25 @ 6PM	More Info+ REGISTER
Atlanta Beltline Workforce Interest Form	Fill Out
Neighborhood Meetings	Grove Park Assoc. (1st Tues @ 7 PM)	Website
Center Hill Assoc. (1st Thurs @ 6:30 PM)	Website
NPU-J (4th Tues @ 7 PM)	Zoom Link

2/27/25 Meeting Attendance – Welcome to all of our 27 community members in attendance!

5/3 Bank, Ascendus, Axiom Chance Home Inspections LLC, Body & Mind Fitness, Broadway on Bankhead, Cake & Cream, Chettachatta Holdings, CPB Project and Moving Management, Designs By Marian, First Batch Artisan Foods, Fit-CF LLC, Historic Hills Community Development Corporation, Jonathan E. Leonard, P.C., Kaizenalds, Party Wat3r Inc., Rellies Hospitality, Sai Launa Makeup & Photography, Strike Out Wingz, SupportHER Non-Profit, Sylvia A. Garrett & Associates Agency, LLC!!!, The Laundry Centers, Studio Driven, Level Construction, idealDESIGN, Grove Park Foundation and Focal Point Coaching

Next NWBA Meeting:

Thursday, March 27 @ 6:00 PM | 2050 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW

DON'T MISS THIS MEETING> RSVP HERE

6:00PM: CHECK IN & HELP YOURSELF TO FOOD & DRINKS

• Food sponsored by Bankhead Seafood and drinks provided by NWBA.  SPONSOR A MEETING

• Thank you Jonathan Leonard for hosting.

• GET READY FOR NETWORKING: Write your name, business name and phone number on the back of the card. We’ll be leading you through an exercise to get you connected to each other! 

• Our Website is a source for: Community Events &  Business Resources.

6:10PM: WELCOME: John Mapp Jr, President, Level Construction   

• Board of Directors

• • Welcome to our NEW NWBA SECRETARY Brittany Hunter of Focal Point Coaching

• Welcome to our NEW MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER Antonio Rolle of Snug Concerts

• • Follow us @NWbizatl on IG & FB. 

  • Send events and notices to media@nwba-atl.com for posting

• Bankhead Seafood Sponsor Announcement- Thank you for sponsoring! 

6:15PM: Finances: Ben Norman, Treasurer, Studio Driven

• Current Bank Balance: $46,743.91  NWBA Profit & Loss Statement, ABI Grant and Budget

BUSINESS UPDATES: Jennifer Ohme, Community Development: welcome@nwba-atl.com

• COA BUSINESS LICENSE MEMBERS ONLY ASSISTANCE DAYS   READ THE BLOG

• • We assisted 8 business members with new or renewed business licenses in February.

• We Mean Bizness Resource Guide: NWBA Member Craig Henderson with World of iibi is our graphic designer! Print & Digital versions available in April 2025! 

• WORLD CUP OPPORTUNITIES: Register @ Showcase Atlanta   Register as a COA Supplier must have COA business license.   See FIFA intellectual property guidelines

• ATLANTA BELTLINE WORKFORCE INTEREST FORM:Fill out here! 

MEMBERSHIP: Gail Mapp, Committee Chair, Level Construction https://nwba-atl.com/membership   47 MEMBERS> 10 new members since last month

CPB Project and Moving Management, Designs By Marian, PAWKids, Dixie Hills Community Civic Club, Inc., Broadway on Bankhead, Jonathan E. Leonard, P.C., Rellies Hospitality, Bankhead Seafood, Centerwell Primary Care and RobynHoodz Beauty LLC

JOIN TONIGHT TO BE PUBLISHED IN THE WE MEAN BIZNESS GUIDE! 

$100 annual: DLH and Neighborhood Storefronts | $50 annual: Affiliate and Resident Entrepreneur 

UPCOMING EVENTS: MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Grove Park Foundation: Grove Park 5K: Saturday, April 26 @ 8:30am- Grove Park

• Sponsorships:   Sponsor opportunities range from $250 to $10,000 -- intentionally very affordable to encourage a wide range of involvement that adds up to a big impact.

• Run the race and bring a team: Sign up for the Grove Park Community 5K and create a team to invite your friends and family to join. Grove Park residents received discounted registration.

6:30PM: ICEBREAKERS AND NETWORKING: Britt Hunter, Secretary, Focal Point Coaching

• Let’s make the most out of connections- Networking 101

• Find the match to your image and get to know that business owner. Exchange your side with theirs. You’ll be introducing them next in 30 seconds. 

6:45PM: GROVE PARK READY PROGRAM: SECOND SESSION: Eric Fears, Grove Park Foundation

• MORE INFO:https://nwba-atl.com/event-6041865

Monthly 30-minute intensive business development sessions followed by facilitated workshop discussions. Classes are designed to help Grove Park businesses assess and strengthen their operations for upcoming economic opportunities.

• Initial Sessions: 4th Thursday monthly, 30-minute presentation at monthly NWBA Networking Meetings from 6:00-7:30pm. RSVP TO MEETINGS

• Follow-up Workshops: 2nd Thursday the following month, group discussion and work review: 90 minutes at Grove Park Foundation, 1566 DLH Pkwy NW,  from 6-7:30pm.  SIGN UP HERE

• This is a three month series to launch the program. Each session has two parts. The series builds each month to complete in April.  Attend one or all. 

• Location: Northwest Business Association Meetings and Grove Park Foundation office

BUSINESS SERIES

1. Business Readiness Assessment (January)   SEE MATERIALS

2. Business Model Assessment (February)

• Initial Session: 2/27/25 @ NWBA Meeting. Workshop Focus: 3/13/25 @ GPF Office

3. Marketing Assessment (March)

• Initial Session: 3/27/25 @ NWBA Meeting. Workshop Focus: 4/17/25 @ GPF Office

MARK YOUR CALENDARS: 

• NWBA MONTHLY MEETINGS:1/23, 2/27, 3/27, 4/24, 5/24, 6/26, 8/28, 9/25, 10/23, 11/20

• Grove Park Neighborhood Association: First Tuesday of the month @ 7pm- Paradise Baptist           GroveParkAtlanta.com

• Center Hill Neighborhood Association: First Thursday of the month from 6:30-8:00pm. In Person: Jan, Apr, Jul, Oct, Virtual: Feb, Mar, May, Jun, Aug, Sep, Nov, Dec centerhillatl.com/ 

• NPU-J: 4th Tuesday at 7pm on Zoom.  Register here https://www.npujatlanta.com/zoom/ Center Hill, Dixie Hills, Grove Park, Harvel Homes, Penelope Neighbors, West Lake

7:15PM: ADJOURN: Networking until 7:30pm. 

The next Networking Meeting + Grove Park Ready Session is Thursday. March 27 @ 6pm: 2050 DLH Pkwy NW.

GET READY FOR WORLD CUP 2026 OPPORTUNITIES

Showcase Atlanta is dedicated to supporting and promoting local businesses eager to participate in major events hosted in our city. If you’re interested in collaborating with us, we’d love to hear from you!

By registering, you’ll join Atlanta’s supplier network and Showcase Atlanta’s business directory, ensuring you’re informed about contract opportunities for major events like the 2026 World Cup.

Register here:  https://www.atlsuppliers.com/register

• You must have a current City of Atlanta business license! 

Fill out the Get Involved Form here

Want to know if you can use the FIFA brand?  Read the Intellectual Property Guidelines HERE

WELCOME NEW SECRETARY BRITT HUNTER OF FOCAL POINT COACHING TO THE NWBA VOLUNTEER BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Brittany “Britt”  Hunter is a dynamic speaker, leadership coach, and former top-ranked athlete who empowers future leaders and changemakers through candid storytelling, engaging workshops, and executive coaching. After a devastating sports injury ended her basketball career at Duke and UConn, Britt pivoted to mentoring and leadership, earning an MBA from Vanderbilt. She spent years working in public education in Harlem, where she developed a deep passion for servant leadership and youth mentorship, before transitioning to the corporate world at Microsoft. Now, she leverages her unique journey—marked by resilience, humor, and an unwavering commitment to leadership—to inspire others. Whether coaching executives, mentoring student-athletes, or delivering high-impact keynotes, Britt helps others unlock their strengths and redefine success on their own terms.

2025 City Business License Technical Assistance Days a Success

Over the course of three weeks, the Northwest Business Association had the pleasure of helping eight members renew or apply for City of Atlanta business license. We provided assistance with preparing income statements, change of address, accessing the ATL Core Portal, notary public services and submitting for a new license.  

We're proud of our members, Fit-CF LLC, Chettachatta Holding Company, Making A Way Housing, Inc, World of ibii, llc, Gifts for You by Valeria, Alhabu Scrubs LLC, RobynHoodz Beauty LLC and Glaciers Italian Ice.  Thank you to Eugene of Fifth Third bank for his notary services. 

Reminder: Payments for 2025 license are due by April 1st. After you've paid, you can print your license from the portal and post at your business.

Main Street Entrepreneurs Seed Fund Opens Applications for Fifth Cohort Main Street 

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Georgia State University’s Entrepreneurship & Innovation Institute (ENI) has announced the opening of applications for the fifth annual Main Street Entrepreneurs Seed Fund, a six-month business accelerator designed to support resource-constrained entrepreneurs. This year, the program is bolstered by $350,000 in grant funding, including $300,000 from Truist and $50,000 from Bank of America.

The Main Street Entrepreneurs Seed Fund has earned national recognition for its impact, receiving accolades such as the Specialty Award for Most Innovative Program from the International Business Innovation Association (InBIA), the Excellence in Student Engagement in Entrepreneurship Award from the Deshpande Symposium for Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Higher Education, and the Award for Excellence in Specialty Entrepreneurship Education from the Global Consortium of Entrepreneurship Centers (GCEC).

Since its launch in 2019, Main Street has empowered 86 founders representing 61 companies and has awarded more than $600,000 in non-dilutive funding. Participants benefit from seed funding, targeted workshops, mentorship from experienced entrepreneurs, networking opportunities, and intensive coaching from subject matter experts and the entrepreneur-in-residence.

Each cohort concludes with a signature Demo Day event featuring a business showcase, live radio broadcast, pitch competition and networking reception.

The application period for Cohort 5 is now open and runs through Feb. 28. Interested entrepreneurs can attend information sessions to learn more about the program and its opportunities.

“Main Street represents the heart of Georgia State’s commitment to fostering inclusive entrepreneurship,” said Dave Forquer, former interim director of ENI. “By providing crucial resources and mentorship, we help entrepreneurs bridge achievement gaps and create sustainable ventures that drive innovation and economic growth. This year’s generous funding from Truist and Bank of America strengthens our ability to empower founders and build a more equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

“What sets Main Street apart is its emphasis on community and resilience," said Joyelle “Joy” Harris, executive officer for entrepreneurship for Georgia State and director of ENI. "From seed funding to mentorship, we equip founders with the tools to overcome barriers and scale their ventures. The program’s impact is a testament to the talent and determination of our participants, as well as the strength of Georgia State’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Main Street alums continue to praise the program for its transformative effect.

“Main Street changed my life and the trajectory of the business” said Nigel Stewart, founder and CEO of Mission2Motivate and a Cohort 4 alum. "Main street provided us with mentorship from industry leaders whom I am still connected with, invaluable workshops that helped me hone my business strategy and exposed me to a thriving tech ecosystem in Atlanta. What truly made the difference, though, was the belief they had in me that no one else did. They saw potential in me and my business that I did not see in myself. Because of their support and the spark they provided, I was able to build the foundation for a successful business, and I’m forever grateful for the opportunities that they opened up for me."

For more information about the Main Street Entrepreneurs Seed Fund or to apply, visit eni.gsu.edu/msesf.

Hartsfield-Jackson Launches “Gateway to Growth” Concessions Small Business Program

Staff Report From Georgia CEO

Thursday, February 6th, 2025

Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) today announced the launch of a new Concessions Small Business Program. Approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Oct. 16, 2024, this innovative program is designed to educate, empower, and create opportunities for small businesses to operate at the Airport. The program consists of two distinct components to ensure clear progression and opportunities: Gateway to Growth – the ATL Airport Concessions Small Business Development Academy and SOAR ATL – The concessions small business program that will  support entrepreneurs in operating a business at ATL.

“Today, we take another critical step forward in ensuring that small businesses are positioned to thrive and succeed as an integral part of ATL’s ecosystem,” said Airport Interim General Manager Jan Lennon. “The ATL Airport Concessions Small Business Program represents our commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and leveling the playing field. Programs like Gateway to Growth and SOAR ATL were built with a clear purpose to equip small business owners with the knowledge, tools, and resources they need to navigate the unique demands of operating in the world’s busiest airport.”

“As a city, we’ve always known that small businesses are the backbone of our economy and play a key part in building the vibrant, influential, and inclusive communities that make up Atlanta,” said City of Atlanta Chief Operating Officer LaChandra Burks. “This program reflects the City of Atlanta’s and Mayor Andre Dickens’ commitment to creating a city of opportunity for all – one where every small business has access to the resources they need to thrive.”

Gateway to Growth

Gateway to Growth is an 11-week comprehensive education program that equips small businesses with the knowledge to navigate Airport operations, respond to bids, and build operational readiness. The program is a strategic initiative by the City of Atlanta's Department of Aviation aimed at providing experienced small business owners with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the dynamic environment of ATL. The inaugural cohort will include up to 25 participants and run from March 3 – May 1, 2025. The academy’s graduation ceremony is scheduled for National Small Business Week, May 4-10, 2025.

Interested businesses are encouraged to apply to the Gateway to Growth program at https://www.atl.com/gateway-to-growth/ and stay tuned for program updates. The application deadline is Feb. 11, 2025.

SOAR ATL

SOAR ATL is a Concessions small business program designed to support entrepreneurs operating a business at ATL. This program provides guidance and resources to help businesses navigate the Airport concessions environment.

As part of the process, the City of Atlanta’s Department of Procurement manages solicitations on behalf of the Department of Aviation’s Concessions Program. Details on available opportunities will be shared as they become available. To stay informed about all upcoming solicitations, sign up for notifications at ATLSuppliers.com.

For more information about the components of the ATL Concessions Small Business Program please visit https://www.atl.com/atl-small-business-program/. Questions about the program should be directed to the ATL Concessions team at Concessions-Submittal@atl.com.