Happy Black History Month!

This month, we celebrate the rich history, resilience, and achievements of Black entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers who have made a lasting impact on our communities and industries. Atlanta continues to hold the highest rank of Black-owned businesses in the United States. At ACE, we remain committed to providing business owners across Georgia with access to capital, resources, and opportunities for growth.

(Photo L-R: Tonya Rapley, ACE; Tiffany Bussey, MEIC; Andrea Chambers, ACE; Danita Harris, MEIC; Ray Pennie, ACE)

ACE celebrated an exciting milestone this month launching our partnership with the Morehouse Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center—welcoming the 2025 Retail Cohort!

This year’s retail founders are ready to take their businesses to the next level and will receive the following as participants of the program:
Contract & Capital Readiness
Executive Training
One-on-One Coaching
A Powerful Network of Entrepreneurs

Over the next 12 weeks the participating business owners will gain the tools, resources, and support they need to scale, sustain, and succeed in Metro Atlanta’s retail space.

Learn more about our affordable loans for retail businesses HERE

If you are a business owner with a loan from ACE, or one of our WBC Clients, you are invited to join the ACE Client Network Directory! This is your chance to be part of a powerful network of businesses across Georgia where people can discover your business when searching for places to eat or shop, to find services or experts they need, or just to explore and support local businesses within the ACE community.

Why should you use the ACE Client Network Directory?

✨ Showcase your business to a wider audience.

✨ Discover other Georgia-based businesses.

✨ Connect with potential customers and other entrepreneurs.

✨ Join a growing network of community-focused businesses.

Who can get listed in the directory?

• Current ACE loan clients can list their businesses for FREE!

• Former ACE loan clients and WBC clients can join for a small annual fee.

Check it out now at www.directory.aceloans.org

ACE South Georgia Extends Deadline to Apply for Emergency Disaster Relief Loans

Small businesses in South Georgia affected by Hurricane Helene now have until March 31st to submit an application for the ACE SGA Emergency Disaster Relief Loan.

Learn more about opportunities to work with our mission-driven, innovative and impactful team HERE.

Sign up to attend ACE WBC Trainings and Events!

As the educational arm of ACE, the Women’s Business Center (WBC) provides valuable training and business advisory support for small businesses. To access our calendar of virtual, hybrid and in-person sessions, you must register with one of our WBC locations, located in Metro Atlanta or Savannah, GA.

At ACE, we are grateful for the incredible partners who believe in our mission and champion our efforts. However, it truly takes a village, and every contribution makes a difference. Join us in driving impactful change across Georgia—consider making a donation today to support our vital work!

Keep yourself informed about ACE's resources, classes, and offerings. Stay connected with us on social media to receive real-time updates on announcements and events.

Want to be kept in the loop? If you haven’t already, subscribe to our newsletter HERE. If you have a specific need or question, feel free to inform us HERE.