NEWS
The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) announced their 2023 ‘Small Business ROCK STARS’ as part of the state’s celebration of Georgia Small Business Week 2023, recognized May 1-6. Benedetto Guitars, a Savannah-based company founded in 1968 by American luthier Robert Benedetto, has been spotlighted as one of the five Small Business ROCK STARS in the state. Every single Benedetto guitar is made in their Savannah shop, and this internationally renowned company builds some of the world’s most collectible and expensive instruments while still focusing its production on the needs of professional and aspiring jazz guitarists.
“Small businesses form the foundations of Georgia’s economy, representing 99 percent of all businesses in Georgia,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “These five companies demonstrate the diverse industries that call the Peach State home, and we are honored to recognize their contributions to their communities and this state. Congratulations to this year’s Small Business ROCK STARS!”
The 2023 Small Business ROCK STARS, in order of spotlight date, are:
- Region 12: Benedetto Guitars – Savannah (Chatham County) – Monday, May 1
- Region 1: Ellijay Mushrooms – Ellijay (Gilmer County) – Tuesday, May 2
- Region 4: Crescent Kayaks – Carrollton (Carroll County) – Wednesday, May 3
- Region 3: Shear Structural – Chamblee (DeKalb County) – Thursday, May 4
- Region 8: White Oak Pastures – Bluffton (Clay County) – Friday, May 5
The Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Small Business team, along with the Georgia Economic Developers Association, created the Small Business ROCK STAR awards as a way to salute the risks, innovations, outreach, and impact of the state’s small businesses. Each of this year’s winners have fewer than 300 full-time employees, are involved in charitable programs in their communities, and were founded in the State of Georgia.
The Chamber congratulates Benedetto Guitars for their recognition! For additional information about Georgia’s Small Business ROCK STAR awards, click here.