With the skyline as a backdrop atop Roosevelt Hall, Mayor Andre Dickens joined Invest Atlanta to celebrate the first recipients of the city’s Legacy Empowerment Grant. The event, “A Salute to Legacy,” recognized 20 Atlanta businesses that have operated for more than three decades and continue to anchor their neighborhoods with jobs, mentorship, and community identity.
Launched earlier this year, Invest Atlanta’s Legacy Business Program supports long-standing local businesses with up to $5,000 in reimbursable modernization grants. Tuesday’s event brought together about 50 guests, including business owners, City officials, and Invest Atlanta board members.
Invest Atlanta President and CEO Dr. Eloisa Klementich opened the program and welcomed Mayor Dickens to the podium. In his remarks, the Mayor emphasized that legacy businesses represent Atlanta’s living history—companies that have endured economic shifts, redevelopment, and even a global pandemic, while continuing to serve their communities.
“These are the businesses that have stood the test of time—growing with Atlanta and shaping this city’s character,” he said. “We can’t be a city of opportunity for all if we don’t uplift our legacy businesses.”
District 4 Councilmember Jason Dozier also offered remarks before a coin ceremony led by Dr. Klementich, honoring the recipients for their resilience and contributions. Despite the cloudy afternoon skies, the celebration remained upbeat as attendees gathered for group photos and media opportunities highlighting their achievements.
The Legacy Empowerment Grant reflects the Dickens Administration’s commitment to building “One City with One Bright Future,” ensuring that small businesses that built Atlanta remain a vital part of its future.
