Atlanta’s small business community just received a powerful boost. The Invest Atlanta Board of Directors has approved $925,000 in Tax Allocation District (TAD) funding to help neighborhood businesses upgrade their spaces, attract more customers, and prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Atlanta’s economy, and these grants are one way we can help them grow and remain sustainable,” said Mayor Andre Dickens, who also serves as Invest Atlanta Board Chair. “Every TAD investment we make is a direct investment in our city’s future—ensuring we build economic engines that strengthen our neighborhoods and keep Atlanta a thriving hub of innovation and growth for the next generation of entrepreneurs.”
Investing in Small Business Growth
The initiative includes $250,000 in Small Business Improvement Grants (SBIGs) that provide financial assistance for interior and exterior upgrades like signage, lighting, code compliance, and storefront improvements. These enhancements help small businesses remain competitive while contributing to the vitality of Atlanta’s business corridors.
“Since its inception, the Small Business Improvement Grant Program has supported many local businesses and played a key role in revitalizing underserved areas,” said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. “This latest round of funding builds on more than $30 million in loans, grants, and technical assistance provided to city of Atlanta small businesses since 2022.”
Businesses benefiting from this round of grants include:
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Bottle Rocket Fine Food & Beverage (Castleberry Hill) – $50,000 for upgrades to its Mitchell Street restaurant.
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Big Daddy’s Kitchen (Southwest Atlanta) – $50,000 to modernize its longtime Campbellton Road location.
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Crate’s (South Downtown) – $50,000 to update its music store on historic Hotel Row.
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Strikeout Wingz (Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy) – $50,000 to enhance its new Perry Bolton TAD location.
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Subs & Salads Junction (Forsyth Street) – $50,000 for improvements to the family-owned sandwich shop operating downtown for 30 years.
“This funding allows us to make meaningful improvements that help us better serve our community,” said Marcus Sabir, owner of Big Daddy’s Kitchen. “It’s encouraging to know that organizations like Invest Atlanta are committed to investing in the success and growth of small businesses across the city.”
Preparing for the World Cup
Looking ahead to 2026, $500,000 from the Eastside and Westside TADs will support a Small Business World Cup Opportunity Fund. The program will offer microgrants between $5,000 and $50,000 to help activate vacant or underutilized commercial spaces downtown and create opportunities for independent local businesses during the World Cup. The fund will be administered by Central Atlanta Progress (CAP).
“Atlanta’s small businesses are the heartbeat of our city,” said A.J. Robinson, President of CAP. “By investing in them, we are investing in the character of our neighborhood—something that will be on full display when the world comes to Atlanta.”
Supporting Youth and Community Through Soccer
Additionally, $175,000 in TAD funding will help Soccer in the Streets construct a new StationSoccer facility at H.E. Holmes MARTA Station. The site will serve up to 200 young players ages 6–12 with free programming that builds teamwork, social skills, and community pride.
What’s Next
As part of the City’s Road to FIFA 2026 efforts, these investments represent Atlanta’s dual focus on economic growth and community development—empowering local entrepreneurs while preparing the city to welcome millions of visitors from around the world.
Learn more about Invest Atlanta’s small business programs and the City’s World Cup readiness initiatives at investatlanta.com
