The city of Stone Mountain’s "SMart" micro-enterprise program has been recognized by the Atlanta Regional Commission with a CREATE award for Regional Prosperity & Economic Development. Attracting both private sector investment and increased business activity to its downtown district, the program provides low- to moderate-income artists with the necessary components of small business entrepreneurship. The City of Stone Mountain has partnered with both DeKalb County and a local non-profit organization to extend training and management services to participants. Artists are selected on an evaluation of talent and interest in beginning a small business, and then given opportunities to develop a successful enterprise, such as subsidized studio and gallery space, furnished utilities and assistance with marketing. Participants are required to attend semi-monthly educational management classes to help them build their small businesses. After progress is monitored with evaluations for a number of months, additional guidance is provided if necessary.
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