Decide DeKalb Annual Report 2023 by INMO Creative

IT’S HAPPENING IN DEKALB

2023 ANNUAL REPORT

MISSION

To nourish our communities through opportunities and partnerships that foster growth, equity, and innovation.

Building Prosperity Together

Over the past few years, DeKalb County has witnessed a significant increase in collaboration, uniting stakeholders from businesses, community organizations, and government agencies to work toward a shared vision for the county. Together, we’ve laid the foundation for a thriving future, and the results are evident in Decide DeKalb’s 2023 achievements.

Decide DeKalb’s strategic planning and focused execution are making a real difference. We’re proud to see our mission come to life by creating prosperous communities that offer opportunities for everyone. This past year, DeKalb witnessed recordbreaking levels of investment, exceeding $1 billion, and fostering economic growth across the county. This momentum is just the beginning as we continue to make it happen in DeKalb!

2023 Highlights

BUSINESS & REVITALIZATION

Decide DeKalb launched three new State Opportunity Zones, which will revitalize retail corridors on Candler Road and Memorial Drive (inside and outside the Perimeter). Additionally, a $70 million redevelopment fund was approved to transform the North DeKalb Area, empowering businesses to thrive

SUPPORTING SMALL BUSINESSES

Recognizing the importance of access to capital, a $2.5 million small business revolving loan fund was approved by the DeKalb Board of Commissioners to address this critical growth barrier

FILM INDUSTRY GROWTH

Two new production soundstages opened in 2023, expanding DeKalb County’s total production space to a staggering 3 million square feet

On behalf of the Decide DeKalb Board of Directors and our dedicated team, we extend our deepest gratitude to all our partners and leadership whose contributions make DeKalb’s success possible. Together, let’s continue building a flourishing DeKalb in 2024 and beyond, making it happen right here in DeKalb!

Don Bolia Board Chair, Decide DeKalb

Dorian DeBarr President, Decide DeKalb

“Together, we’ve laid the foundation for a thriving future, and the results are evident in Decide DeKalb’s 2023 achievements.”

Don Bolia Board Chair, Decide DeKalb

It’s Happening in DeKalb

“Vision, collaboration, and dedication have turned a dream into reality, making it happen on all fronts for ALL people in DeKalb County.”

Michael Thurmond CEO, DeKalb County

A conversation between Decide DeKalb President Dorian DeBarr and DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond

Click to watch this insightful conversation between two of DeKalb County’s inspiring leaders.

Decide DeKalb’s Strategic, Holistic Approach

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

MADE In DeKalb Educator Fellowship Advisory Councils for Targeted Industries

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

DEKALB ENTERTAINMENT COMMISSION

Electric Owl Opening

3 million square feet of studio space 150 productions in 2023

State Opportunity Zones Tax Allocation Districts Site Selection

Brownfield Inventory Revolving Loan Fund

Economic Development

In 2023, the collective dedication to nurturing an accessible ecosystem of growth yielded success evident throughout the county. From running a Small Business Pop-Up Incubator in South DeKalb, initiated by Decide DeKalb’s Equitable Economic Development Program Manager, Geoffrey Loften, to addressing business needs and building relationships with leaders in DeKalb through Katrina Young and her team’s Industry Councils, Decide DeKalb has created space and programming that serves the county and its businesses.

“It’s not just happening in

DeKalb, we are making it happen!”

Randi Mason VP, Economic Development

By focusing on dismantling barriers to growth, streamlining access to capital, and preparing the next generation for livable wage jobs through workforce training, Decide DeKalb’s targeted and collaborative efforts aligned with the mission to grow a community where residents can live, work, and innovate. Through its programs and resources, Decide DeKalb has been intentional in its efforts to empower small and large businesses to succeed. To further that goal, Decide DeKalb developed and facilitated tools that equip businesses for success:

Designed with real estate developers in mind, the new Brownfields Development Opportunity Tool uses GIS platform to display Brownfield Sites ready for remediation in DeKalb County. Aimed at real estate developers, the Brownfields tool leverages GIS technology to find underused land and sites in DeKalb County. This includes both areas ideal for redevelopment and brownfield locations requiring environmental cleanup.

The DeKalb Entertainment Commission completed a new five-year strategic plan to guide Decide DeKalb’s work to grow the entertainment industry across the county.

The recently launched Welcoming DeKalb initiative fosters immigrant business growth through strategic programs and services.

Small Business Revolving Loan Fund received approval, with the goal to help bridge the gap in capital access for small businesses in DeKalb County.

Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) broke ground on a Regional Transportation Training Center that will have the resources and space available to double the number of students enrolled in the college’s commercial truck driving program.

HEAR FROM RANDI

CREATING SPACE FOR SUCCESS: Decide DeKalb’s Active Role in Business Growth

As the lead for Decide DeKalb’s Business Attraction program, Sunny Anderson actively engages with landowners, developers, and real estate agents in DeKalb County, assisting companies in finding the ideal location to do business in DeKalb County. As Sunny sums up the role, “I work to bring jobs and investment to DeKalb County. What sets DeKalb

“We work to bring business and jobs to DeKalb County. Whether that’s the mom and pop shop looking for a new restaurant location or a company like Pepsi looking to expand their manufacturing operations, we help businesses large and small find a location that’s a good fit for them.”

County apart is that we’re very innovative. Once we’re able to understand the challenges businesses face, we find that we’re able to overcome many of them.”Facilitating ongoing engagement, Decide DeKalb collaborates with businesses and individuals to identify their specific needs and continuously enhance resources available to effectively address challenges. The overarching goal is to empower companies with the necessary tools and support to choose DeKalb. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, support, and continuous improvement, Decide DeKalb aims to create an environment where everyone can thrive.

HARNESSING THE POTENTIAL OF OPPORTUNITY ZONES

Decide DeKalb is revitalizing our communities by eliminating blight and underutilized spaces through a proactive approach to redevelopment, working alongside developers, investors, and business owners to bring improvements to targeted areas. Sunny recognizes the transformative potential of State Opportunity Zones (OZs) to create this kind of positive change. Working with DeKalb County and Department of Community Affairs (DCA), she and the Decide DeKalb team successfully secured the designation of the Candler Road and Memorial Drive retail corridors (inside and outside the perimeter) as State Opportunity Zones.

State Opportunity Zones in Georgia offer a job tax credit toward corporate income tax and payroll withholding, making them one of the most appealing incentives for businesses. These state-level job tax credits provide targeted support for communities seeking to revitalize specific areas and they encourage employers who create at least two new qualifying jobs to take advantage of these tax incentives.

By incentivizing employers, such as restaurants and retail establishments, to offer competitive wages, health insurance, and full-time positions, OZs encourage job growth and investment in underutilized areas, which allow DeKalb citizens better access to essential services.

Sunny Anderson Senior Business Attraction Manager

HEAR FROM SUNNY

Workforce Development

PAVING THE PATH FOR DEKALB COUNTY’S FUTURE TALENT

In 2023, Decide DeKalb continued to expand Workforce Development initiatives by bridging the gap between the workforce and business needs. In the spirit of fostering collaboration that aims to shape the emerging workforce, the DeKalb Manufacturing and Logistics Industry Council continues to host representatives from advanced manufacturing facilities and economic development partners who, in turn, share feedback on the skills and

training needed for success as the manufacturing and logistics field evolves. According to an April 2023 report from Deloitte manufacturers may need as many as 3.8 million new workers by 2033. If current labor gaps persist, roughly 1.9 million of those roles could go unfilled. The Manufacturing, Automation, and Distribution Emerging Initiative, known better as “MADE In DeKalb,” is an innovative program designed to equip teachers with tools to engage students in skills needed for careers in these fast-growing industries in DeKalb County and beyond.

3.8M ESTIMATED NEW WORKERS BY 2033

“Workforce Development is a tool to take people from one economic development status to another and to help people achieve economic mobility.”

Intended to bolster DeKalb’s future workforce at this critical time, the MADE In DeKalb Educator Fellowship exemplifies the proactive approach to bridging the gap between education and industry. DeKalb educators participated in the comprehensive MADE In DeKalb Educator Fellowship program included site visits to the DeKalb operations of PepsiCo and Sugar Bowl Bakery, among others, panel discussions, and regular talks from industry leaders. As part of the program, teachers attended quarterly workforce webinars that were also open to students, parents, and other educators to discuss how to get teenagers more interested careers in the MADE fields.

Business Relations Specialist

HEAR FROM JOSH

Dorian DeBarr, President of Decide DeKalb, and Dr. Devon Horton, Superintendent of the DeKalb County School District, discuss current programs and future-forward strategies aimed at equipping the county’s workforce

“Teachers want the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning that will benefit their students just as much as the students want hands-on learning.”

BUSINESS & EDUCATION PARTICIPANTS

Isabella Urschel, DeKalb County Educator and MADE In DeKalb Graduate

Redevelopment & Revitalization $70M

REDEVELOPMENT FUNDS APPROVED

Decide DeKalb’s approach to environmental stewardship actively helps revitalize the county to allow for greater usage. The past year’s accomplishments in sustainable economic development will allow for opportunities to cultivate a greener and safer environment for future generations in DeKalb County.

LULAH HILLS: A Community-Centric Approach to Redevelopment

Following last year’s approval of the groundbreaking Market Square Tax Allocation District (TAD) in North DeKalb County, the Decide DeKalb board approved the disbursement of $70M in funds for redevelopment over 15 years. This project represents a future value of $35M in infrastructure improvements. These funds offer businesses the opportunity to transform the area around North DeKalb Mall, including Lulah Hills.

The Lulah Hills redevelopment project is poised to generate a staggering billion-dollar economic boost for DeKalb County. Decide DeKalb actively engaged with community stakeholders through public meetings, and listening sessions to ascertain neighborhood feedback for the project. This collaborative approach is indicative of Decide DeKalb’s vision for creating prosperous communities for opportunities for all.

EDENS’s vision for Lulah Hills. This 73-acre mixed-use destination in North DeKalb County is the evolution of a community designed to inspire all who visit. Encompassing 2.5 million square feet, including 320,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space, 1,700 multifamily units, 100 townhomes, a 150-key hotel, and a Path Foundation trail connection to Emory University, there’s something for everyone here.

Source: https://edens.com/property/lulah-hills

BROWNFIELD INVENTORY & REVOLVING LOAN FUND

Identifying abandoned and underutilized land due to pollution from industrial use is much easier in DeKalb County because of the new Brownfields Inventory database. The tool emphasizes available sites and land in DeKalb that is ready for redevelopment as well as brownfield locations that need remediation. “Decide DeKalb is proud to present an

all-encompassing inventory system for available redevelopment sites in the county,” said Dorian DeBarr, president of Decide DeKalb. Regularly updated, this easyto-use platform allows real estate developers to explore previously overlooked brownfield sites and access relevant information beyond location, including status and safety concerns.

Aimed at business owners, another economic development tool Decide DeKalb crafted was the was the Brownfields Revolving

Loan Fund. This fund provides dollars to businesses to carry out cleanup activities at Brownfield sites. Through these dollars, made possible by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the county encourages stakeholders to leverage resources to clean up and redevelop brownfields into spaces that support the economy and community, following the example of Assembly Atlanta, Pullman Yards, and the East Decatur Greenway. This program provides an ongoing source of capital to continue investing in a healthier, safer future.

Equitable Economic Development

Decide DeKalb continues to strengthen the local economy and forge an equitable future where every business finds solid footing for success. This continued dedication bolsters DeKalb County’s reputation as a leader interested in an inclusive and diverse community. DeKalb is only one of two counties in Georgia that has an Equitable Economic Development staff position, leading the way for additional support in under and dis-invested areas of the county.

SOUTH DEKALB POP-UP BUSINESS INCUBATOR

Recognizing the disparity in access to critical resources for business growth such as obtaining a business license, technical assistance, and access to capital, Geoffrey Loften, Decide DeKalb’s Equitable Economic Development Program Manager, developed the South DeKalb Pop-Up Business Incubator.

“The idea was to develop something where we could bring capital partners, funding partners, mission-focused lending institutions, technical assistance providers and the state, federal and local agencies to one place in South DeKalb,” said Loften. The incubator continues to build on the successful framework already developed. August 29th, is the third South DeKalb Pop-Up Business Incubator for the community. For details, visit DecideDeKalb.com.

“In the South DeKalb Business Pop-Up Incubator…we could bring capital partners, funding partners, missionfocused lending institutions, technical assistance providers and the state, federal and local governing bodies to one place…to help business owners.”

Geoffrey Loften Equitable Economic Development Program Manager

EMPOWERING BLACK BUSINESSES

Decide DeKalb is unwavering in its commitment to fostering an inclusive economic environment where both large corporations and small businesses can thrive. While the presence of billion-dollar corporations undoubtedly brings substantial economic benefits, Decide DeKalb understands that the heartbeat of the county lies within its vibrant community of entrepreneurs and small businesses. By offering various resources such as business development workshops, business incubators, and funding information, we help small businesses navigate challenges and achieve sustainable growth to succeed and contribute to the community’s economic vitality.

Click below to watch Mason’s Super Dogs takeover at Hippin’ Hops Brewery.

Above: the visionaries and panelists behind the unique and highly impactful Generations of Success event: Mason Wright from Mason’s Super Dogs (left to right), Trish Miller from SwemKids, Clarence Boston from Hippin’ Hops Brewery, David Moody from C.D. Moody Construction, and Geoffrey Loften from Decide DeKalb.

DeKalb Entertainment Commission

FEET OF PRODUCTION SPACE IN DEKALB COUNTY

3MSQUARE

Since its establishment in 2010, the DeKalb Entertainment Commission (DEC) has positioned itself as a major contributor in expanding the entertainment industry’s presence in DeKalb County and the state of Georgia.

Members of the DEC represent a wide range of entertainment based-organizations committed to establishing film and television as a staple in DeKalb’s Economy: Georgia Production Partnership, Georgia Music Partners, Georgia Piedmont Technical College, Media

Education Foundation of Georgia, Screen Actors Guild, Georgia Screen Entertainment Coalition, International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts, Georgia State University – Creative Media Industries Institute, Georgia Film Academy, and Georgia Game Developers Association.

Intersecting with industries such as IT, construction, and logistics, film and television have helped diversify Georgia’s economy and continued the creation of higher-wage jobs and opportunities for Georgia’s citizens. With more than 400 productions set in 2023, the state of Georgia, and DeKalb County specifically, has grown into a desirable location for entertainment, positively impacting

local businesses and the residents of the community.

In 2023, the DEC launched its new brand and website complete with a custom-built locations database designed to streamline the permitting process and elevate accessibility for industry professionals.

From the Atlanta Film Society’s Production Assistant (PA) Academy to the DeKalb Student Film Festival, the DEC is committed to providing opportunities for education and training, including scholarships, to DeKalb residents looking to forge a career in the film industry, bridging the gap between workforce and industry. Visit dekalbentertainment. com to learn more.

“We want to make sure we educate our residents and business owners on the opportunities in the entertainment industry and the resources available to them.”

Shelbia Jackson Director, DeKalb Entertainment Commission

HEAR FROM SHELBIA

THE BUSINESS OF ENTERTAINMENT IN DEKALB

Despite the writer’s strike in 2023, DeKalb County saw unprecedented growth in its sound stages with the grand opening of Electric Owl Studios and Assembly Studios. With over 3 million square feet of studio space, and contributing a staggering $3 billion in economic impact, DeKalb County continues to be a major leader in entertainment.

As film industry professionals sought opportunities to generate additional income during the strikes, DEC’s workshop The Art of the Business Plan for Creatives, provided practical guidance to equip film professionals to launch a new business. The panel of industry experts informed DeKalb business owners of opportunities to engage with the film industry.

“We take every opportunity to educate our residents and business

owners on the opportunities in the entertainment industry and the resources available to them,” says Director Jackson.

A FUTURE IN FOCUS

In 2023, DeKalb Entertainment Commission (DEC) finalized a five-year strategic plan that will guide the growth of the county’s entertainment ecosystem. Director Jackson and the commission industry experts are committed to

educating residents and businesses owners about the opportunities in the film industry by providing them with the information and resources they need to create, expand and grow their businesses.

The DeKalb Entertainment Commission unveiled a refreshed brand and website designed to simplify the way industry professionals and emerging talents access essential permitting and local business resources.

Business Retention & Expansion

82BUSINESSES VISITED IN 2023

SMALL BUSINESS EDUCATION & RESOURCES

Decide DeKalb is at the forefront of attracting, expanding, and retaining businesses in DeKalb County. Working with diverse industries, ranging from sole proprietors to multinational Fortune 500 companies, Decide DeKalb’s Business Retention and Expansion (BRE) program supports the business community through on-site and virtual visits to advise and answer questions about growth and expansion and point businesses toward critical information and resources that will enhance their success.

MANAGEMENT • STUFF WE WANNA SAY LLC • W. SIGNATURE DOCUMENTS • IRENE CONSULTING FIRM • REGAL

GEORGA GIFTS & MORE • WOMEN GONE GLOBAL PARTNERS, LLC • DISTILLERY OF MODERN ART • ALOPECIAN BEAUTY HOUSE • SPRINTER BOOKING • LUSH POPS

Katrina Young, Decide DeKalb’s Business Retention and Expansion Manager met with 82 businesses in 2023. “Many business owners may be unaware of the resources available to them and are often too busy running their businesses to seek support.” On the idea of DeKalb County’s future, she adds, “We make a difference. Because we help businesses and businesses help people, together we create a community that thrives. Seeing that ripple effect is like a paycheck of the heart, not just for me, but for my team members, because we know our work is making it happen.”

In collaboration with The Latin American Association and the Better Business Bureau, Katrina and the Decide DeKalb team organized Business Resources 101, an informative event focused on resources and opportunities for entrepreneurs. Attracting a diverse group of business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs, attendees had the opportunity to gain insights and practical knowledge on obtaining business licenses, navigating the process of filing with the secretary of state, accessing funding options, and much more. The event successfully streamlined access to critical information business owners seek.

BIZUP LLC • CAL ARC WELDING EVANS MILLS LAUNDRY • KYN ACCOUNTING TRANSFORMATION LEAD • REGION STORES • AMY FIX IT LLC

REFUGE COFFEE COMPANY • MFCF MANAGEMENT • WANNA SAY LLC • W. SIGNATURE DOCUMENTS • IRENE CONSULTING FIRM • REGAL LOVE UNIFORMS

GEORGA GIFTS & MORE • WOMEN GONE GLOBAL PARTNERS, LLC • DISTILLERY OF • ALOPECIAN BEAUTY • ALBERT’S HOUSE • SPRINTER BOOKING • LUSH POPS ATL • CAL ARC WELDING EVANS MILLS LAUNDRY • KYN ACCOUNTING • TRANSFORMATION LEAD • REGION STORES • AMY FIX IT LLC • REFUGE COFFEE COMPANY • MANAGEMENT • STUFF WE WANNA SAY LLC • W. SIGNATURE DOCUMENTS

CONSULTING FIRM • REGAL LOVE UNIFORMS • GEORGA GIFTS & MORE GONE GLOBAL