In an effort to connect with the business community, representatives from Cobb County Government, Cobb County Economic Development Division,  SelectCobb, City of Austell, Powder Springs Development Authority and key community stakeholders participated in an inaugural Business Walks event in South Cobb. The program  is an initiative to develop a strong foundation to build relationships and networks with the businesses of Cobb County. 

Business Walks, an innovative business retention and expansion program, allows economic development groups to visit four to six businesses a day per team, covering more ground than traditional retention and expansion programs. Leveraging one-on-one interviews and facility tours, teams gather feedback from companies on key matters, such as community engagement and services, opportunity for growth, workforce needs and current challenges. The teams also use surveys with predetermined questions to quickly diagnose firms on the brink of greatness or those at risk, increase awareness of programs and services offered by local and county organizations, and identify those businesses that may require further assistance. For business owners and operators, meeting with community leadership and development groups allows their voices to be heard and ensures a prosperous business climate for the future.

Business Walks participants today visited businesses in the cities of Austell and Powder Springs, as well as the Mableton, Discovery Boulevard, Six Flags Industrial, Riverside Parkway, Veterans Memorial Highway and Hartman Road areas. Reunited, the teams discuss their findings and work together to address any pressing matters. The coordinating committee began its efforts in South Cobb with plans to expand to each area of Cobb.