SWGAU having operated under the Empowerment Zone until 2009 when program funding ended. The needs of the community persisted for needs to access capital in the creation, continuation, and growth of small business throughout the state of Georgia.

SWGAU focus turned to address these needs by becoming certified as a Community Development Finance Institution. Through Small Business Lending Program options consisting of Micro Loans, Small Business Loans, and Home Repair Loan options. SWGAU works with members of the community that have need for financing that would ultimately be seen as “To high risk” for local or state banks to have interest in offering them finance opportunities.

The ultimate goal of SWGAU is improve the quality of life in rural Georgia and it’s communities, while offering access to needed funding with the mission of creating sustainable small privately owned businesses, allowing members of these communities to achieve financial stability and ownership of their success.

.