VALDOSTA, Ga. (WALB) – The Peach State has become a magnet for entrepreneurs and many are located in the greater Valdosta area.
Georgia is ranked as the best state to start a business. That’s according to Area Development magazine. It’s also something business owners in Valdosta agree with.
The Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce said it knows why Georgia is ranked so well and they don’t see that changing anytime soon.
“We are thrilled that Georgia has been ranked as the best state to start a business for the ninth year in a row. This did not happen by accident. This was more than a decade of work by our legislators, as well as houses across the state. We understand that the way we can afford a great quality of life is through great jobs,” said Christie Moore, president of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce.
In November 2022, Downtown Social, a new all-ages entertainment venue in downtown Valdosta, held its grand opening.
Owner Tiffany Bentley said this is exactly what downtown needs.
“We wanted to kind of still have a drink and kind of enjoy the atmosphere somewhere and we really didn’t have anywhere to go and do that. And so we decided to bring it to Valdosta, Lowndes County. Go and enjoy your dinner in your good places. You know your Bistro, your 306, your El Paso, enjoy that night, but then come here and play with us afterwards,” Bentley said.
The owner of Xenquility Massage Therapy Salon opened her business back in September 2022. Chryon Martin said that with all the work and clientele she has, it doesn’t shock her that Georgia has been ranked as the best state for nine years in a row.
“When I first stepped into the faith, I didn’t know it would blossom the way it did. I’ve been doing this for eight years. When I came out, they were coming, they were looking for me. I am excited about the future endeavors for Xenquility Therapeutic Massage Parlor,” said Martin.
The seventh largest chamber in Georgia, the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce welcomes businesses that may be considering joining their team.
Sometimes people jump out and take a leap of faith, not knowing what to expect.
Businesses in the Valdosta area say their businesses have grown beyond their wildest dreams. Part of that success is attributed to the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce.
“We did really well. We had a lush December. I feel that the Chamber was great to us. They were just open arms and got us through it. That’s what it’s about. It’s about community. It’s about the community coming back through the doors and enjoying it,” Bentley said.
Officials with the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce said Georgia has been the best state to start a business for nine consecutive years because of the growth of businesses each year.
“From a growth perspective we are very blessed in Valdosta and we are seeing exponential growth. The only reason the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber exists is to benefit our businesses and help them grow and prosper. That’s why we exist,” Moore said.
Martin said supporters in the community helped get the word out about her presence downtown.
“Word of mouth is the best. They supported me. She flourished and grew. It’s still growing. I am so grateful. I am very passionate about what I do. Here at Xenquility, our passion, our priority, and our purpose is to serve the community. To serve our clients,” said Martin.
The Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce has contributed to the growth of 20 major committees and programs, with more than 200 volunteers.
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