VALDOSTA – The SGBC is pivoting its first quarter focus toward intensive business education and capital readiness for minority entrepreneurs.
VALDOSTA, GA — In a bold move to reshape the economic landscape of South Georgia, the Southern Georgia Black Chambers (SGBC) has officially declared 2026 as “The Year of Execution.” Moving beyond traditional networking, the Chamber is pivoting its first quarter focus toward intensive business education and capital readiness for minority entrepreneurs.
This strategic shift comes in response to the growing need for sustainable scaling strategies among Black-owned businesses in the region.
“We have spent years building a foundation and a community of resilience,” said DeWayne Johnson, President/CEO of the SGBC. “2026 is about ensuring our community and members have the technical capacity and the capital to execute their visions.”
Central to this initiative is the upcoming launch of the 2026 Small Business Academy. This comprehensive program is designed to bridge the gap between entrepreneurship and executive management.
To identify the specific needs of the regional business community, the SGBC has released a Business Health Assessment. This tool allows business owners to audit their current operations and pre-register for the Academy.
The Chamber is kicking off the year by highlighting members who embody this spirit of execution, including Chef Tammy Acree of Heavenly Spice Blend Seasoning and Jauron Snead of J Marquel Watch Company. Their stories of turning personal passion into scalable products underscore the talent residing within the SGBC network.
“We are building a generational wealth ecosystem,” Johnson added. “And the door is open for anyone ready to do the work.”
Small business owners interested in the Academy are encouraged to take the Business Health Assessment immediately at: www.sgablackchambers.org/2026-academy-waitlist
The SGBC is a non-profit organization dedicated to the economic empowerment of marginalized businesses across South Georgia. Through advocacy, education, and networking, the SGBC fosters an environment where minority businesses can thrive
