Economic development teams survey businesses in West Cobb

The biannual Business Walks Program recently was conducted in Cobb’s District 1 in West Cobb.

This initiative is dedi- cated to collecting feedback on business retention and expansion in Cobb’s busi- ness community, accord- ing to a county statement.

Participants included the Cobb County Eco- nomic Development Division, SelectCobb and representatives from the Geor- gia Development, Department Metro of Economic Atlanta Chamber, WorkSource Cobb, KSU’s Small Business Development Center, the cities of Acworth and Kennesaw and Georgia Power.

Business Walks allow economic development groups to visit up to four businesses a day per team, covering more ground than traditional retention and expan- sion programs. With one-onone 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 increase awareness of programs and services offered by local and county organizations and identify those businesses that may require further assistance, according to Cobb Economic Development Division Manager Michael Hughes.

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, he added.

“This is about developing partnerships,” District 1 Commissioner Keli Gambrill said. “I’m excited to learn about these partnerships and how we can help strengthen them.”

Business Walks participants visited businesses in the cities of Acworth and Kennesaw as well as the Acworth Due West and Barrett Parkway Corridors, discussed their findings and worked together to address any pressing matters, Hughes said.