A new survey shows minority and women-owned businesses are on the rise in Savannah. The city has made increasing these business a priority recently, with several new programs designed to boost their success.
A survey of 13,000 licensed businesses shows the efforts may be paying off.
Since the last survey 4-years-ago, African-Americans jumped from 11% to 16% and women jumped from 33% to 37% of total business owners. Hispanic-owned business tripled.
Tony O'Reilly, President of the Small Business Assistance Center, which conducted the survey, said, "Obviously, we're seeing an overall increase in the numbers of businesses, but in terms of proportionality, there is also an increase and that's what's particularly hopeful."
Along with more business, however, the survey also found more concern about competition as new options pop-up for consumers. Business owners also said taxation, regulation and crime are top concerns.
A survey of 13,000 licensed businesses shows the efforts may be paying off.
Since the last survey 4-years-ago, African-Americans jumped from 11% to 16% and women jumped from 33% to 37% of total business owners. Hispanic-owned business tripled.
Tony O'Reilly, President of the Small Business Assistance Center, which conducted the survey, said, "Obviously, we're seeing an overall increase in the numbers of businesses, but in terms of proportionality, there is also an increase and that's what's particularly hopeful."
Along with more business, however, the survey also found more concern about competition as new options pop-up for consumers. Business owners also said taxation, regulation and crime are top concerns.
