The Paris Business Center (PBC) is a regional, non-profit, small business development center and business incubator serving north Georgia, western North Carolina, and southeast Tennessee.
Scheduled to open in September 2024 in a renovated historic building in downtown Hiawassee, the PBC will be an education, information, and training hub for small businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs.
PBC staff and advisors will assist established business owners in identifying and implementing strategies to strengthen or expand their businesses and support their continued success. They can also recommend and help develop targeted solutions to address specific areas of need, such as accounting, social media, or human resources.
New or aspiring entrepreneurs who need help getting started, and who demonstrate a strong commitment to building their business, can participate in the PBC’s SUCCESS© Program, where they will work collaboratively with PBC staff and advisors to build a strong foundation for success.  
After completing the SUCCESS© Program, clients may have an opportunity to “test drive” their new business under the umbrella of the business incubator, located within the PBC, where they pay reduced rental rates for up to 24 months to help support their initial success.  In the incubator, they can work out issues and refine processes with the help of PBC staff before striking out on their own.
Please support the Paris Business Center mission.  Stronger businesses in turn help to build a stronger economic environment which enhances the sustained livability and vibrancy of the communities they serve.

The two historic buildings on the PBC site were one permit away from demolition.  Their renovation preserves this block of Hiawassee’s history and serves as a cornerstone to create an economically strong and vibrant future for the region.

Funded by a combination of Federal grants, a matching component from the City of Hiawassee, and private donations, the PBC is managed and operated by the Hiawassee Downtown Development Authority.