DeKalb County Launches Digital Directory to Fuel Growth for Women-Owned Businesses

Decide DeKalb Taps WSB-TV to Unveil Digital Hub for Female Founders Ahead of 2026 World Cup Boom

DECATUR, GA — In a major push to bolster local entrepreneurship ahead of a landmark year for the region, the Decide DeKalb Development Authority has officially launched the DeKalb Women-Owned Business Guide. As first reported by WSB-TV Channel 2, this digital directory is designed to increase visibility for female-led enterprises and connect them with residents, corporate partners, and the global audience expected to descend on Metro Atlanta this year.

The guide follows the successful blueprint of the 2024 DeKalb Black Business Guide. County leaders told WSB-TV’s Berndt Petersen that the timing is critical as the area prepares for the economic surge associated with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Breaking the “Glass Ceiling” in the Local Economy

With women-owned firms accounting for approximately 39% of businesses in DeKalb, the county is one of the state’s most fertile grounds for female entrepreneurship. However, many small business owners still struggle with the high failure rates common in the early years of operation.

“We started back in 2024 with the DeKalb Black Business Guide, which was a huge hit,” Terra Washington, Vice President of Marketing and Communication at Decide DeKalb, told WSB-TV. “Now we are introducing DeKalb’s Women-Owned Business Guide to make it easy to find and support those shops.”

A Lifeline for Small Business

For local entrepreneurs, the county’s backing provides a much-needed marketing boost. In an interview with WSB-TV, Amie Waltzer and Brittany Smith, co-owners of The Book Bird in Avondale Estates, emphasized that community awareness is the lifeblood of retail.

“Being on a guide where people are encouraged to come in and support women… can only help us,” Waltzer shared. “The support of Decide DeKalb is critical for us.”

Vetting for Quality

To ensure the directory remains a reliable resource, Decide DeKalb has implemented a vetting process. To be included, businesses must meet several criteria:

• 51% woman-owned and physically based in DeKalb County.
• Hold a valid, active business license.
• Maintain a digital presence, including a website and at least one social media handle.

How to Join or Support

Business owners meeting the criteria are encouraged to apply immediately to be featured in the official rollout this May.

• Application Link: Submit your business to the Women-Owned Business Guide
• Source Story: Read the full report at WSB-TV