Dahlonega's historic downtown area represents an opportunity to the potential entrepreneur. Downtown is experiencing rejuvenation due to recent efforts to beautify and develop the area. If you are planning to open a full-service restaurant, you should be aware that special food service permitting will apply. Those intending to sell alcohol need to be aware of distance requirements from schools and churches. However, when developing downtown, one may qualify for tax incentives and grants. This program can assist potential business owners with information regarding historic preservation requirements, building and zoning requirements, facade grants, state and federal tax incentives, and other topics regarding development in the downtown area. Contact Joel Cordle for assistance.

Dahlonega Better Home Town Program

Dahlonega City Hall

465 Riley Road

Dahlonega, GA 30533

(706)864-6133

Agribusiness

Agribusiness makes up a large part of the economy of Lumpkin County. This field of business also encounters special restrictions and opportunities. For more information on agribusiness ventures, contact your Lumpkin County Extension Service. The Extension Service is a part of the University of Georgia College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, and provides research-based information and technical guidance to farmers and landowners about farming. The Extension Service has information on crop and livestock enterprise budget and license/permit requirements of the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Agency. The Farm Service Agency (FSA) of the United States Department of Agriculture is located in Athens. The FSA has farm loan programs, farm land acreage information (quotas, allotments, etc.) and land conservation assistance programs.

University of Georgia Extension Service, Georgia Dept. of Agriculture/FSA

26 Johnson Street; Georgia Office

Suite A; 355 East Hancock Avenue

Dahlonega, Georgia 30533 Stop 100

(706) 864-2275; Athens, GA 30601

(706)546-2266