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Invest Atlanta News

Making an Impact on Atlanta

Scroll down to see the impact and stories of people and places supported through Invest Atlanta programs.

 

2024 At A Glance

4,250

New Jobs Created (Business Attraction and Expansion)

$1.57B

Total Capital Investment

$1.85B

Total Economic Impact

2,475

Affordable Housing Units Financed (Multifamily)

409

Homeownership Incentives (Downpayment Assistance, Owner-Occupied Rehab and Tax Relief)

1,845

Small Businesses Supported (Grants, Loans and Technical Assistance)

 

See What We’ve Been Up To

{"result":[{"id":542,"title":"Bond Funding Approved to Alleviate Housing Insecurity","promo_title":"Bond Funding Approved to Alleviate Housing Insecurity","published_date":"2024-11-06","featured_image":{"id":2718,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"dsc01783.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":548107,"resource_updated_at":"2024-11-06T11:46:20.957-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-11-06T11:46:21.043-05:00","updated_at":"2024-11-06T11:55:04.474-05:00","filename_hash":"dsc01783_WV4kjK3.jpg","width":2048,"height":1365},"filename":"bond-funding-approved-to-alleviate-housing-insecurity","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"hIo8yQ","created_at":"2024-11-06T11:55:04.447-05:00","updated_at":"2024-11-06T11:55:04.447-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved $75 million in revenue bonds for the Homeless Opportunity Project.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCities across the U.S. are grappling with increased homelessness since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Atlanta is no exception. In fact, Partners for HOME, which coordinates Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Continuum of Care, found that the city\u0026rsquo;s unsheltered population has grown 63% since the pandemic \u0026ndash; from 640 in 2022 to 1,040 in 2024.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta City leadership has been moving with urgency to address housing insecurity across the city. Efforts include launching and funding programs to prevent the displacement of low-income renters and tax-burdened senior homeowners, as well as coordinating street outreach to rehouse residents living in encampments and ensure they have access to emergency shelters and supportive services.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMost recently, the Invest Atlanta Board approved $75 million in revenue bonds for the Homeless Opportunity Project. These bonds will finance costs associated with the acquisition and installation of approximately 500 quick-delivery rapid housing units, along with 200 additional units of permanent supportive housing and other related projects. The Homeless Opportunity Project will be paired with an additional $10 million from the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Affordable Housing Trust Fund.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is not just about offering someone a roof over their heads for a night or two,\u0026rdquo; Mayor Andre Dickens said in September 2024 when the Homeless Opportunity Bond was first introduced as the largest investment to address homelessness in Atlanta history. \u0026ldquo;It is about creating a pathway and building a foundation for a better life. We are not just building housing; we are building hope.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":511,"title":"Kick Back in Castleberry Hill","promo_title":"Kick Back in Castleberry Hill","published_date":"2024-02-21","featured_image":{"id":2564,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"match.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":118516,"resource_updated_at":"2024-02-20T13:12:51.678-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2024-02-20T13:12:52.339-05:00","updated_at":"2024-02-21T13:29:08.267-05:00","filename_hash":"match_EbrRmny.jpg","width":750,"height":750},"filename":"kick-back-in-castleberry-hill","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"5MHQ0A","created_at":"2024-02-21T13:27:18.256-05:00","updated_at":"2024-02-21T13:29:08.249-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n \u0026ldquo;Sometimes you\u0026rsquo;ve just gotta kick back and relax.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;Sometimes you\u0026rsquo;ve just gotta kick back and relax.\u0026rdquo; That\u0026rsquo;s the motto and the vibe when you walk into Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s \u003ca href=\"https://www.matchloungeatl.com/\"\u003eMatch Bar \u0026amp; Oven\u003c/a\u003e. While his customers are relaxing, owner James Hamelburg is working hard to build a successful restaurant in downtown Atlanta. Located in Castleberry Hill, right down the street from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Match Bar \u0026amp; Oven has been open for nine years. Hamelburg says the business ebbs and flows and he is determined to make it a success. As he explored how to keep the restaurant sustainable, he started building relationships in the city. One of those relationships is with Invest Atlanta and the ATLinBusiness program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I thought, \u0026lsquo;Is this really going to work?\u0026rsquo; I didn\u0026rsquo;t know what to expect. I typically keep expectations low and in this case, it was free.\u0026rdquo; Hamelburg says.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBut it did work. ATLinBusiness connected Hamelburg with one of its expert consultants to work on two things: a revamped website and a more robust business plan. He says the results far exceeded his expectations, \u0026ldquo;I couldn\u0026rsquo;t be more excited. They don\u0026rsquo;t want anything in return. I will sing the praises of them for the rest of my life.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eATLinBuiness provides no-cost services to entrepreneurs inside the city of Atlanta. The process is simple: you apply for the program, get partnered with a consultant and then work together to grow your business. Business owners can select what area of expertise they need support. Hamelburg says that things have been tough for his restaurant, and as he has worked with ATLinBusiness, he can see things popping.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I have to work hard to keep things afloat, but these guys have my back. It\u0026#39;s like they know what I need and what I want,\u0026rdquo; he explains. Hamelburg believes that it will take another two or three years before the Castleberry Hill neighborhood will really turn around. But, like the growth for Match Bar \u0026amp; Oven, he has faith it will happen. He also believes that his relationship with Invest Atlanta will continue to support him along the way.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIf you are a small business in the city of Atlanta and interested in learning more about ATLinBusiness, \u003ca href=\"https://atlinbusiness.com/\"\u003evisit the website\u003c/a\u003e and begin the process of being partnered with a consultant at no cost to you.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":509,"title":"Key Milestone Reached for 2 Peachtree Street Redevelopment ","promo_title":"Key Milestone Reached for 2 Peachtree Street Redevelopment ","published_date":"2024-01-26","featured_image":{"id":2541,"parent_id":140,"resource_file_name":"2_peachtree_rendering_2.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":637535,"resource_updated_at":"2024-01-18T13:42:19.841-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2024-01-18T13:42:20.327-05:00","updated_at":"2024-01-30T15:10:51.992-05:00","filename_hash":"2_peachtree_rendering_2_P1nyMXK.png","width":977,"height":554},"filename":"key-milestone-reached-for-2-peachtree-street-redevelopment","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"Zc0BFA","created_at":"2024-01-30T15:09:47.648-05:00","updated_at":"2024-01-30T15:10:51.965-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved Two Peachtree Partners, LLC as the developers for the large-scale redevelopment of 2 Peachtree Street. With this approval, the firm will begin negotiating the terms of the project \u0026ndash; a key milestone in what will become an innovative residential and mixed-use development downtown.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2024","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cdiv\u003e\r\n\u003cp paraeid=\"{d8ff9719-1dd8-4582-8fb8-3b6488fd6abe}{74}\" paraid=\"1722624093\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved Two Peachtree Partners, LLC as the developers for the large-scale redevelopment of 2 Peachtree Street. With this approval, the firm will begin negotiating the terms of the project \u0026ndash; a key milestone in what will become an innovative residential and mixed-use development downtown.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp paraeid=\"{d8ff9719-1dd8-4582-8fb8-3b6488fd6abe}{74}\" paraid=\"1722624093\"\u003eInvest Atlanta conducted a six-month competitive request for proposals process that evaluated respondents based on their ability to achieve the City\u0026#39;s vision for the building, prioritizing development proposals that considered LEED and WELL-certified standards with more affordable units that integrate all income levels throughout the property in a cohesive way. Proposals that demonstrated an ability to provide opportunities for local female and minority businesses were also prioritized.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp paraeid=\"{d8ff9719-1dd8-4582-8fb8-3b6488fd6abe}{74}\" paraid=\"1722624093\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;Identifying Two Peachtree Partners, LLC as the developer is a major milestone in this project,\u0026rdquo; says Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. \u0026ldquo;The transformation of 2 Peachtree Street is potentially our most ambitious affordable housing undertaking, providing connectivity between housing units and transit while breathing new life into Downtown Atlanta.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp paraeid=\"{d8ff9719-1dd8-4582-8fb8-3b6488fd6abe}{74}\" paraid=\"1722624093\"\u003e2 Peachtree Street is an 890,000-square-foot, 44-story office tower adjacent to Woodruff Park and the Five Points MARTA station. The conversion is expected to create at least 200 new housing units and further Downtown\u0026#39;s redevelopment along with other catalytic development projects such as Centennial Yards and the Stitch.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp paraeid=\"{d8ff9719-1dd8-4582-8fb8-3b6488fd6abe}{74}\" paraid=\"1722624093\"\u003eAccording to Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta, 2 Peachtree was acquired two years ago with a vision to bring more residents and businesses to Downtown Atlanta. \u0026quot;What captivates me the most with the project is the commitment to equitable downtown revitalization, the promise of more affordable housing and the exciting potential for mixed-use spaces that will further the vibrancy of the area,\u0026rdquo; says Klementich. \u0026ldquo;2 Peachtree is poised to become a model of what transformative development can create for cities and their communities.\u0026quot;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":497,"title":"Expanding Hope ","promo_title":"Expanding Hope ","published_date":"2023-09-28","featured_image":{"id":2512,"parent_id":158,"resource_file_name":"sa4.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":487076,"resource_updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:33:46.983-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2023-09-28T10:33:47.126-04:00","updated_at":"2024-05-30T13:33:55.043-04:00","filename_hash":"sa4_pz3qN1p.jpg","width":2200,"height":1221},"filename":"expanding-hope","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"H48wTA","created_at":"2023-09-28T10:34:07.714-04:00","updated_at":"2023-09-28T10:34:07.714-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Salvation Army will now have more resources to address the urgent needs of the city\u0026rsquo;s most vulnerable population with help from a $2 million Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund Grant approved by the Invest Atlanta Board.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Salvation Army will now have more resources to address the urgent needs of the city\u0026rsquo;s most vulnerable population with help from a $2 million Westside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Ascension Fund Grant approved by the Invest Atlanta Board.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Salvation Army\u0026rsquo;s capital campaign \u0026ndash; HOPE with Dignity \u0026ndash; is raising funds to transform the organization\u0026rsquo;s current homeless shelter facility (Red Shield Services) into a new, expanded Center of Hope campus. Funding from the TAD grant will help double the size of the current 45,875 square-foot facility and house the Salvation Army\u0026rsquo;s emergency and transitional living shelter facility, increasing its number of beds from 321 to 437. New units will consist of two floors of individualized living spaces and two floors of dormitory beds for male residents.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project will also house an Education \u0026amp; Workforce Development Center that offers vital services to residents, including housing solutions, emergency assistance programs and other specialized programs that support veteran services, substance recovery, re-entry services and financial education. The center features six classrooms, a computer lab, as well as several informal collaboration and study areas. Construction of the new, expanded Center of Hope campus is expected to start in early 2024.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":478,"title":"Invest Atlanta Issues RFQ for 2 Peachtree Street Conversion","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Issues RFQ for 2 Peachtree Street Conversion","published_date":"2023-04-28","featured_image":{"id":2371,"parent_id":142,"resource_file_name":"2_peachtree_downtown_jll-35.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":2949983,"resource_updated_at":"2023-04-27T17:17:12.801-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-04-27T17:17:13.180-04:00","updated_at":"2023-05-04T13:37:28.777-04:00","filename_hash":"2_peachtree_downtown_jll-35_Ozl3glP.jpg","width":7008,"height":4670},"filename":"invest-atlanta-issues-rfq-for-2-peachtree-street-conversion","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"A1uHMw","created_at":"2023-05-04T13:37:28.695-04:00","updated_at":"2023-05-04T13:37:28.695-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta has officially launched the process of converting downtown\u0026rsquo;s 2 Peachtree Street tower and the adjacent 14 Marietta Street building into a vibrant residential/mixed-use development.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta has officially launched the process of converting downtown\u0026rsquo;s 2 Peachtree Street tower and the adjacent 14 Marietta Street building into a vibrant residential/mixed-use development.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith the issuance of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ), Invest Atlanta seeks to identify an experienced, visionary developer that will lead the buildings\u0026rsquo; transformation and introduce dynamic new life to the city through the adaptive re-use and residential conversion of the historic buildings.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The conversion of 2 Peachtree and 14 Marietta will advance one of my administration\u0026rsquo;s top goals of building and preserving affordable housing by bringing additional mixed-income transit-oriented development to Downtown,\u0026rdquo; says Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. \u0026ldquo;Once complete, 2 Peachtree will be a model of urban redevelopment and become the city\u0026rsquo;s tallest residential building.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe City of Atlanta acquired 890,000-square-foot 2 Peachtree Street from the State of Georgia in February 2023. The 44-story tower was built in 1966. 14 Marietta is a seven-story building with 126,000 square feet. Adjacent to the soon-to-be-renovated MARTA Five Points station, both buildings will be entirely vacated by current tenants the State of Georgia and Georgia State University by the end of 2023.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The redevelopment of 2 Peachtree is a landmark opportunity that will continue to propel investment in Downtown Atlanta, one of the city\u0026rsquo;s biggest growth opportunities,\u0026rdquo; says Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;We are seeking a development partner who shares our vision of creating a vibrant, mixed-use community in the heart of Downtown with access to transit and job centers for more Atlantans.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta will evaluate responses to the RFQ, and respondents deemed most qualified will be issued a Request for Proposal (RFP), with selection of a developer following at a later date. Invest Atlanta envisions granting a 99-year ground lease to the selected developer whose plans will further the City\u0026rsquo;s efforts to establish Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s downtown as a world-class intown destination.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInterested developers are encouraged to bring forward proposals that align with the City\u0026rsquo;s community, financial, social and sustainability goals. Potential developers should consider including a combination of uses, including market-rate residential, affordable housing, student housing, hospitality, short-term residential, office and retail. This includes a target minimum of 200 residential units for residents earning 80% of the area median income or below.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta will prioritize development proposals with more affordable units that blend and integrate all income levels throughout the property in a cohesive fashion. Additionally, Invest Atlanta values diversity, inclusion and hiring local talent. Proposals that demonstrate an ability to provide opportunity for local female and minority businesses will also be prioritized.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eClick \u003ca href=\"/two-peachtree\"\u003eHERE\u003c/a\u003e to view RFQ information.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":476,"title":"Promoting Food Diversity","promo_title":"Promoting Food Diversity","published_date":"2023-03-31","featured_image":{"id":2361,"parent_id":145,"resource_file_name":"2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":66834,"resource_updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:35:33.713-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-04-03T16:35:34.424-04:00","updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:35:38.365-04:00","filename_hash":"2_B3vK7nP.jpg","width":480,"height":480},"filename":"promoting-food-diversity","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"ILtojg","created_at":"2023-04-03T16:35:38.304-04:00","updated_at":"2023-04-03T16:35:38.304-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Jeannette and Ken Katz have created an ecosystem of support for local farmers, bakers, chefs and food entrepreneurs \u0026ndash; an endeavor that began with their first loan from Invest Atlanta more than a decade ago.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eJeannette and Ken Katz have created an ecosystem of support for local farmers, bakers, chefs and food entrepreneurs \u0026ndash; an endeavor that began with their first loan from Invest Atlanta more than a decade ago.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by the flavors of San Francisco\u0026#39;s melting pot, the accessibility of New York City\u0026#39;s bodegas, the familiarity of small-town Italian shopkeepers and the island flavors found in Miami, the couple opened Buenos Dias Caf\u0026eacute; in downtown Atlanta in 2012 with help from a $50,000 low-interest loan from Invest Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Since that first loan, Invest Atlanta has continued to promote opportunities to help us be successful,\u0026rdquo; says Ken. \u0026ldquo;They recognize the tenacity of small business owners and entrepreneurs and understand their value in local communities.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eJeannette and Ken eventually closed Buenos Dias Caf\u0026eacute; to open \u003ca href=\"https://www.labodegaatl.com/\"\u003eLa Bodega\u003c/a\u003e, a neighborhood grocery store in the historic MET building, which sells healthy, locally sourced groceries and provisions. Unique not only because of its location in a food desert, La Bodega is also known for its take-out window, featuring fresh Latin American-inspired cuisine and a rotating collective of up-and-coming chefs dishing out their specialties.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The pop-up gives food entrepreneurs space to explore the idea of opening their own restaurant,\u0026rdquo; says Jeannette. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s so important for big cities to offer food diversity and support local chefs. Food can define a city, and I see Atlanta nearing San Francisco- and Miami-level diversity.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eJeannette and Ken continue to grow their business. Not only do they employ more than 16 workers, they are also looking to scale their COVID side gig of making fresh, handmade Pupusas \u0026ndash; the national dish of El Salvador.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs a \u003ca href=\"https://www.fearless.fund/\"\u003eFearless Fund\u003c/a\u003e grant recipient and member of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.weiatlanta.com/\"\u003eWomen\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurship Initiative\u003c/a\u003e (WEI) Cohort #4, Jeannette says she\u0026rsquo;s been able to hone her business skills and draw strength from her network of women supporting women. \u0026ldquo;My experience with WEI made me believe that we can continue to grow and expand our possibilities,\u0026rdquo; she says. \u0026ldquo;I also learned that it\u0026#39;s ok to ask for help because it will make you, and your business, stronger.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We wouldn\u0026rsquo;t exist without Invest Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; agrees Ken. \u0026ldquo;They gave us a chance when others wouldn\u0026rsquo;t. We are proud Invest Atlanta alumni and one of their biggest proponents.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":470,"title":"Invest Atlanta Acquires 2 Peachtree Street","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Acquires 2 Peachtree Street","published_date":"2023-02-27","featured_image":{"id":2333,"parent_id":142,"resource_file_name":"2_peach_2.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":149698,"resource_updated_at":"2023-02-27T12:28:12.944-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2023-02-27T12:28:13.670-05:00","updated_at":"2023-03-01T09:40:11.541-05:00","filename_hash":"2_peach_2_r9PgalR.jpg","width":1235,"height":915},"filename":"invest-atlanta-acquires-2-peachtree-street","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"a4N9fA","created_at":"2023-02-27T12:28:38.219-05:00","updated_at":"2023-03-01T09:40:11.496-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board closed on 2 Peachtree Street and will offer the property for redevelopment into a mixed-income, mixed-use site, bringing more affordable housing and economic activity to Downtown Atlanta.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2023","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board closed on 2 Peachtree Street and will offer the property for redevelopment into a mixed-income, mixed-use site, bringing more affordable housing and economic activity to Downtown Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAs the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economic development agency, Invest Atlanta purchased 1 Peachtree, 2 Peachtree and 14 Marietta, collectively known as 2 Peachtree, from the State of Georgia with funding assistance from a $41.5 million Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) Special Fund Grant. Invest Atlanta then created a single purpose entity known as IA 2 Peachtree and will hold the property as a real estate asset until a redevelopment partner is selected.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Mayor Andre Dickens, the redevelopment of 2 Peachtree will serve as an anchor for the ongoing revitalization of Downtown Atlanta and bring more long-term affordable housing and mixed-use space that\u0026#39;s accessible to the heart of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s transit system. \u0026ldquo;Ensuring this development is attainable for a range of incomes and lifestyles will make Downtown the vibrant, connected urban community it was always meant to be,\u0026rdquo; says Dickens. \u0026ldquo;Thank you to the State and Invest Atlanta for their partnership in helping Georgia\u0026rsquo;s capitol city expand its affordable housing inventory.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt in 1966, 2 Peachtree Street is a 41-story office tower adjacent to Five Points MARTA station. The City\u0026rsquo;s acquisition of the property will create dedicated affordable housing units and ensure the property does not sit vacant during a crucial time in Downtown Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s redevelopment. The conversion is expected to create several hundred new housing units.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOnce converted, 2 Peachtree will be the tallest residential building in Atlanta. Aside from residential space, the 1 million-square-foot tower will contain office and retail space, bringing even more economic activity to the community.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":451,"title":"Capping The Connector","promo_title":"Capping The Connector","published_date":"2022-09-21","featured_image":{"id":2055,"parent_id":127,"resource_file_name":"stitch_4.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":58026,"resource_updated_at":"2022-09-21T11:44:22.227-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2022-09-21T11:44:22.733-04:00","updated_at":"2022-09-21T11:44:54.146-04:00","filename_hash":"stitch_4_ZWQmMlK.jpg","width":585,"height":449},"filename":"capping-the-connector","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"FwDNzA","created_at":"2022-09-21T11:44:54.110-04:00","updated_at":"2022-09-21T11:44:54.110-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s central business district is one step closer to a transformative infrastructure project that will cap the connector with an expansive urban greenspace corridor.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2022","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta\u0026rsquo;s central business district is one step closer to a transformative infrastructure project that will cap the connector with an expansive urban greenspace corridor.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe City of Atlanta (DOT) plans to construct a public infrastructure over the section of Interstate 75/85, known as The Connector, between the Civic Center MARTA rail station at West Peachtree Street and Piedmont Avenue. With help from a $10 million Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) grant, The Stitch will unite the two sides of downtown currently divided by I-75/85 with a 3\u0026frasl;4-mile long, 14-acre series of elevated, interconnected parks, plazas, walking trails and new street connections.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNot only will The Stitch spur new land use on adjacent and nearby sites that are currently underutilized and blighted by the impacts of exposure to the interstate highway, it also has the potential to increase property tax revenues by spurring development on adjacent sites.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe City of Atlanta and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID) have already secured over $4 million in funding to support initial planning and concept design for The Stitch. The next step to advance the project is completing the preliminary project engineering \u0026ndash; a scope of work totaling $21 million.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe City and ADID requested the $10 million Eastside TAD grant as part of a 50/50 match funding for a USDOT Reconnecting Communities Pilot Grant Program. The $10 million grant will be combined with $500,000 from ADID to leverage $10.5 million from the grant program, securing the total need of $21 million in funding to complete preliminary engineering activities for The Stitch.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCompletion of preliminary engineering will make The Stitch shovel-ready and eligible for Federal funding sources to support construction.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":435,"title":"National Center for Civil and Human Rights Expansion Will Scale Impact","promo_title":"National Center for Civil and Human Rights Expansion Will Scale Impact","published_date":"2021-12-20","featured_image":{"id":1771,"parent_id":86,"resource_file_name":"ncchr_1.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":64416,"resource_updated_at":"2021-12-20T14:53:53.609-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2021-12-20T14:53:53.642-05:00","updated_at":"2021-12-21T09:27:22.335-05:00","filename_hash":"ncchr_1_OP9Wa9p.jpg","width":902,"height":576},"filename":"national-center-for-civil-and-human-rights-expansion-will-scale-impact","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"6NgaUQ","created_at":"2021-12-20T15:11:50.524-05:00","updated_at":"2021-12-21T09:27:22.313-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s board of directors approved a $250,000 grant from the Westside TAD Ascension Fund for the planned 23,898-square-foot expansion of National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR).\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Board of Directors approved a $250,000 grant from the Westside Tax Allocation District Ascension Fund for the planned 23,898-square-foot expansion of National Center for Civil and Human Rights (NCCHR).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBuilt in 2014 and operated primarily as a museum, the NCCHR not only houses museum exhibits, including the papers and artifacts of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.,\u0026nbsp;but also serves as a training, education, conference, and performance facility.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The NCCHR is seeking to expand their local attraction to a national cultural institution that will serve as an education, training, conference and performance hub focused on human dignity, human rights and human justice,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, president and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;This expansion is both a physical and a programmatic expansion. This transformation will help them deliver impact, it will help them reach their mission and it expands on the diversity conversation.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe enlarged footprint and new educational offerings will fundamentally shift the Center\u0026rsquo;s business model going forward \u0026ndash; increase annual admissions from approximately 202,000 to over 250,000; adding new revenue streams from corporate and law enforcement trainings; and increasing its rental income for external events.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eNCCHR\u0026rsquo;s buildout includes the addition of an east wing to house an Innovation Lab including 5,000 square feet of flexible classrooms for students and teacher training, especially for underserved schools; training facilities for non-profit and corporate Diversity, Equity\u0026nbsp;and Inclusion (DEI) experiences; and human rights training facilities for courses for police officers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe new facilities will also allow the center to grow its Operation Inspiration Program to provide free and subsidized admission and transportation to up to 35,000 low-income (Title I-qualified) students annually.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We desperately want to build these wings because one of them will be devoted to having the kinds of conversations that bring community together in this space with the papers of Dr. King making progress on issues of equity, and diversity and inclusion like no other space can,\u0026rdquo; said Jill Savitt, president and CEO of the National Center for Civil and Human Rights. \u0026ldquo;We are seeking to be the hub of that in downtown Atlanta so people can come together and hash out these challenges.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":393,"title":"New Grant Helps Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative Expand Mission","promo_title":"New Grant Helps Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative Expand Mission","published_date":"2021-02-23","featured_image":{"id":73,"parent_id":9,"resource_file_name":"wei_2x.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":56680,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-18T17:08:37.209-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2017-12-18T17:08:37.275-05:00","updated_at":"2021-02-23T17:25:03.809-05:00","filename_hash":"wei_2x_8my2wma.png","width":342,"height":198},"filename":"new-grant-helps-womens-entrepreneurship-initiative-expand-mission","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"AYcH8A","created_at":"2021-02-23T17:25:03.785-05:00","updated_at":"2021-02-23T17:25:03.785-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has awarded the Women\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) with a $49,500 grant to expand its programming and develop a podcast series to help advance its goals.\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2021","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-7ebfbf1f-7fff-fc17-e478-8dc28232ee61\"\u003eThe Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has awarded the Women\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurship Initiative (WEI) with a $49,500 grant to expand its programming and develop a podcast series to help advance its goals.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWEI has an active programming curriculum that includes Business Analysis, Learning \u0026amp; Leadership Development, Strategic Partnerships and Funding Opportunities \u0026ndash; all of which focus on startup workshops and webinars to strengthen Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s entrepreneurial pipeline.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWEI will receive the grant funds via Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (ACE), which will serve as its fiscal partner. ACE is a nonprofit organization that provides loans and business development resources to help its borrowers create and grow sustainable businesses which generate jobs.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;This grant will help WEI strengthen its pipeline, which is a key goal for 2021,\u0026rdquo; said Monica Hooks, executive director for the Women\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurship Initiative. \u0026ldquo;We are looking to reach more budding entrepreneurs, and with these funds, we feel we\u0026rsquo;ll be able to touch at least 200 women-owned businesses throughout the \u003c/span\u003ecity of Atlanta and at least 120 minority-owned women businesses through workshops and webinars.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe LISC grant will not only help develop potential entrepreneurs so they can participate in incubator programs, like WEI, and/or accelerator programs within the city of Atlanta, it also will provide no-cost support for those in need of access to information, technical resources and one-on-one engagement.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWEI was launched in 2015 with support from the City of Atlanta and Invest Atlanta as the first, city-funded incubator to foster growth and sustainability for emerging women-owned businesses through programming, facilities, technology and other shared resources.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEntrepreneurs are competitively selected for a rigorous 15-month incubator program, during which the WEI entrepreneurs have access to practical business, education, mentorship engagement, financial literacy assistance and business support services, including co-location at the new WEI incubator space in the Flatiron Building.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSince its inception, WEI businesses have created more than 230 jobs for the city of Atlanta, and WEI entrepreneurs have garnered more than $800,000 in capital investment.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":373,"title":"A Much-Needed Lifeline","promo_title":"COVID-19 Relief Grant: A Much-Needed Lifeline for a Downtown Restaurant","published_date":"2020-12-21","featured_image":{"id":1453,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"eu8c4443.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":1047815,"resource_updated_at":"2020-12-21T13:34:15.189-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-12-21T13:34:15.335-05:00","updated_at":"2021-03-05T14:57:28.996-05:00","filename_hash":"eu8c4443_kbBV5ZO.jpg","width":3600,"height":2400},"filename":"a-much-needed-lifeline","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"H2Epow","created_at":"2020-12-21T13:34:35.197-05:00","updated_at":"2021-03-05T14:57:28.970-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Jose Navarro and Mat Tainow had a vision to bring a local, small-town vibe to the concrete jungle of Downtown Atlanta.\r\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/div\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e1c66b3d-7fff-d17e-382f-444f1dcf8993\"\u003eJose Navarro and Mat Tainow had a vision to bring a local, small-town vibe to the concrete jungle of Downtown Atlanta.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e1c66b3d-7fff-d17e-382f-444f1dcf8993\"\u003eIn 2003, the two friends pioneered a neighborhood bar in the Fairlie-Poplar district with their first venture, Sidebar. A few years later they opened Park Bar, just steps away from Centennial Park.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e1c66b3d-7fff-d17e-382f-444f1dcf8993\"\u003e\u0026ldquo;We felt like downtown was missing something back then,\u0026rdquo; says Jose. \u0026ldquo;Surprisingly, we found that a lot of local residents and workers really loved their downtown and were very supportive of us opening a neighborhood bar.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-e1c66b3d-7fff-d17e-382f-444f1dcf8993\"\u003eSpecializing in great burgers and known for its speciality drinks, Park Bar has since established itself as a downtown staple for Atlanta residents and visitors alike. \u0026ldquo;We like to think of ourselves as your local bar, even if you live elsewhere,\u0026rdquo; says Jose. \u0026ldquo;We are a place to gather and socialize. We are the place to join others for a pre-game beverage before cheering on Atlanta United, or where to meet friends before seeing your favorite artist perform at State Farm Arena.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eBut 2020 put a halt to all that, throwing Park Bar a one-two punch. After being closed for a couple months because of pandemic-related restrictions, the bar was just reopening in a limited capacity when the initial days and nights of social unrest shut it down again for another week.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;We were fortunate in that we only had graffiti on a lot of the building,\u0026rdquo; says Mat. \u0026ldquo;We weren\u0026#39;t broken into and, most importantly, none of our staff was hurt.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe financial impact, however, has been profound, leading Mat and Jose to apply for both the Invest Atlanta \u003c/span\u003eResurgence Grant Fund and the City of Atlanta Recovery Fund, which provides up to $10,000 in grants to businesses that were adversely impacted during Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s demonstrations.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;There was absolutely\u0026nbsp;no way we could\u0026nbsp;have afforded the expense to remove and repaint the walls affected by the graffiti,\u0026rdquo; says Mat. \u0026ldquo;With COVID decimating our business, the building would have remained scarred without the help from Invest Atlanta.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThat assistance, in fact, has been a much-needed lifeline for Park Bar. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s been integral to us treading water until the pandemic subsides and the big downtown events return,\u0026rdquo; says Jose. \u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has been very diligent in getting out and helping the business community, and we are truly grateful for the rescue.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":367,"title":"Boston Consulting Group Doubles Atlanta Presence","promo_title":"Boston Consulting Group Doubles Atlanta Presence","published_date":"2020-12-21","featured_image":{"id":269,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"bcg_feature.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":65587,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T11:01:25.555-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2017-12-21T11:01:25.708-05:00","updated_at":"2020-12-21T10:59:54.459-05:00","filename_hash":"bcg_feature_MYq4Dyj.jpg","width":736,"height":552},"filename":"boston-consulting-group-doubles-atlanta-presence","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"-p_LIA","created_at":"2020-12-21T10:59:54.413-05:00","updated_at":"2020-12-21T10:59:54.413-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is investing $18 million to expand its Atlanta Business Services Center, Nexus. This investment will add nearly 60,000 square feet to its current office located in Downtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street and will more than double its Atlanta presence.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-7f0f58da-7fff-f3da-4b89-e1c6e819abad\"\u003eBoston Consulting Group (BCG) is investing $18 million to expand its Atlanta Business Services Center, Nexus. This investment will add nearly 60,000 square feet to its current office located in Downtown Atlanta on Peachtree Street and will more than double its Atlanta presence. It also will create 331 additional jobs in the city, including opportunities in administrative services, human resources, finance, information technology, operations and design.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs one of the world\u0026rsquo;s leading management consulting firms, BCG first opened an Atlanta office in 1995 and later established Nexus in 2017, creating 268 new jobs. BCG also owns BrightHouse, an Atlanta-based global creative consultancy located in Ponce City Market that focuses on brand strategy. When its expansion in Atlanta is complete, BCG and BrightHouse will employ more than 900 people across three metro Atlanta offices.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;BCG has been proud to be part of the fabric of the Atlanta community since 1995,\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;said Rodrigo Garcia-Escudero, BCG managing director and partner. \u0026ldquo;We are eager to play our part in helping Atlanta continue to thrive and be a leading location for business in the post-COVID reality.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":362,"title":"The Simpson Brings More Affordable Housing to Atlanta","promo_title":"The Simpson Brings More Affordable Housing to Atlanta","published_date":"2020-11-24","featured_image":{"id":1439,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"screen_shot_2020-11-18_at_5.17.50_pm.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1107180,"resource_updated_at":"2020-11-24T16:29:48.467-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2020-11-24T16:29:48.923-05:00","updated_at":"2020-11-25T10:01:20.774-05:00","filename_hash":"screen_shot_2020-11-18_at_5.17.50_pm_5EJWery.png","width":2054,"height":1392},"filename":"the-simpson-brings-more-affordable-housing-to-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"7uTQxg","created_at":"2020-11-24T16:31:31.261-05:00","updated_at":"2020-11-25T10:01:20.752-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta Board approved a $15.5 million tax exempt loan for the new construction of 139 multi-family housing units in the Vine City neighborhood on Joseph E. Boone Boulevard.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2020","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan id=\"docs-internal-guid-efee9a49-7fff-7c42-0088-fc8a26d14f04\"\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board approved a $15.5 million tax exempt loan for the new construction of 139 multi-family housing units in the Vine City neighborhood on Joseph E. Boone Boulevard. The Simpson, which is scheduled to be complete in 2023, will feature a clubhouse, fitness center, picnic area, gated entry, gazebo, business center and job training for residents.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAccording to Alan Ferguson\u003c/span\u003e, senior vice president of Community Development at\u0026nbsp;Invest Atlanta, all of the units will be affordable, ranging in incomes from 80 percent Area Median Income (AMI) to 30 percent using the income-averaging strategy. \u0026ldquo;This project not only promotes income diversity,\u0026rdquo; says Ferguson, \u0026ldquo;it also allows us to serve lower income residents without the use of public subsidy.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u0026ldquo;I\u0026rsquo;m really excited about this project,\u0026rdquo; adds Randy Hazelton, Invest Atlanta board member. \u0026ldquo;The developer has done some particularly good work not only engaging the community but also involving them in the process to bring this project to fruition. And, it\u0026rsquo;s got a great affordable allocation.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":270,"title":"345-Unit Ascent Peachtree to Rise Up Above Parking Garage ","promo_title":"345-Unit Ascent Peachtree to Rise Up Above Parking Garage ","published_date":"2019-05-15","featured_image":{"id":903,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"ascent_insight_mc.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1257266,"resource_updated_at":"2019-05-20T08:55:39.561-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-05-20T08:55:39.816-04:00","updated_at":"2019-07-11T15:01:08.833-04:00","filename_hash":"ascent_insight_mc_XJmRBm5.png","width":1200,"height":537},"filename":"345-unit-ascent-peachtree-to-rise-up-above-parking-garage","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"8sfCvg","created_at":"2019-05-20T08:55:57.842-04:00","updated_at":"2019-05-21T11:55:17.066-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Invest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta,\u0026nbsp;Banyan Street Capital, and Greystar gathered to break ground on\u0026nbsp;Ascent Peachtree, a multifamily project in Downtown Atlanta atop an existing parking garage. The $125 million project will bring 345 residential units, including 70 workforce units, to the city\u0026rsquo;s business core.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta, the City of Atlanta, Banyan Street Capital and Greystar gathered to break ground on\u0026nbsp;Ascent Peachtree, a multifamily project in Downtown Atlanta atop an existing parking garage. The $125 million project will bring 345 residential units, including 70 workforce units, to the city\u0026rsquo;s business core.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This project is so exciting because we are able to create affordable housing out of thin air, literally,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;161 Peachtree Center Avenue\u0026rsquo;s innovative adaptation of an existing parking structure adds density within the city\u0026rsquo;s Downtown core and provides affordable housing near job centers, amenities and transit nodes. This transformative project is expected to create more than 150 new jobs and make a $165 million economic impact on the city.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWith more than 154,000 daytime workers in Downtown Atlanta and 13,600 housing units, the project is focused on filling the residential vacancy the downtown market is experiencing by providing rental properties at a sustainable rate. Twenty percent of the units within the project will be set aside for residents earning 80% of the area median income or less, providing the opportunity for more people to live near major employment centers and transit.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Ascent Peachtree will be one of the most transit-oriented residential projects in Atlanta, offering easy access to the Peachtree Center MARTA station, a MARTA express bus stop and an Atlanta Streetcar stop, as well as direct frontage on the Peachtree Center Avenue bike lane.\u0026nbsp; Ascent Peachtree will also be one of the most amenity-rich projects in Atlanta, with walkability to over 50 restaurant options at Peachtree Center\u0026rsquo;s The Hub, as well as a variety of retail and restaurant amenities along the Peachtree Street corridor,\u0026rdquo; said John Roberson, Managing Director of Development for Greystar.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 29-story, high-rise project will be located at Downtown Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s epicenter for commerce. Ascent Peachtree will feature unrivaled views with lowest level units starting on Level 11. The mix of floor plans will include studios, one, two and three-bedrooms apartment homes ranging in size from 680 square feet to 2,380 square feet. Featured amenities will include a resort-style swimming pool, outdoor entertainment space and rooftop lounge.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eFocused on the continued investment in Downtown Atlanta, Invest Atlanta has partnered with Banyan Street Capital and Greystar, providing a $9 million loan from Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Eastside Tax Allocation District to ensure that 70 units within the project will be allocated for workforce housing, as well as providing a lease-purchase bond financing for the project.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":260,"title":"Executive Corner: Whitty IT Solutions Growing With Help From Invest Atlanta","promo_title":"Executive Corner: Whitty IT Solutions Growing With Help From Invest Atlanta","published_date":"2019-04-09","featured_image":{"id":856,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"whitty_it_insight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":779749,"resource_updated_at":"2019-04-15T11:04:23.316-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2019-04-15T11:04:23.457-04:00","updated_at":"2019-05-07T10:04:46.003-04:00","filename_hash":"whitty_it_insight_RJBogmm.png","width":1200,"height":536},"filename":"whitty-it-solutions-growing-with-help-from-invest-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"uU4u4Q","created_at":"2019-04-15T11:04:48.126-04:00","updated_at":"2019-05-07T10:04:45.966-04:00","video_link":"https://player.vimeo.com/video/324228854","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Charlie Whitfield, the founder and CEO of \u003ca href=\"https://www.whittyit.solutions/\"\u003eWhitty IT Solutions\u003c/a\u003e, thanked Invest Atlanta for helping her grow her Atlanta-based tech company.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2019","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCharlie Whitfield, the founder and CEO of \u003ca href=\"https://www.whittyit.solutions/\"\u003eWhitty IT Solutions\u003c/a\u003e, thanked Invest Atlanta for helping her grow her Atlanta-based tech company.\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nWhitty IT Solutions is an IT and professional services company. They provide project management, program management, data analytics, heatlh care IT, FinTech, and cybersecurity solutions.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has been awesome,\u0026rdquo; she said. \u0026ldquo;You\u0026rsquo;re talking about mentoring, not just funding, but guidance. Invest Atlanta provides access to capital, which is something small businesses don\u0026rsquo;t always have. When you paint the picture of where you are, and let them know where you want to be, they can help you get there.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nWhitfield has grown her IT business from a sole proprietorship to a thriving company with 16 employees, and offices in Atlanta as well as Alabama, Florida, Virginia, and South Carolina. Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s Business Retention and Expansion team has worked closely with her during this time.\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;The partnering with Invest Atlanta has allowed us this opportunity,\u0026rdquo; said Whitfield.\u0026nbsp;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\nWhitfield began her business in Atlanta, which described as a thriving \u0026ldquo;tech hub.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026ldquo;This is the best city for tech,\u0026rdquo; she said. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s affordable, number one. We have a great university system and it\u0026rsquo;s cultivating wonderful tech people. And this small business is right here. We don\u0026rsquo;t need to go anywhere else. The City of Atlanta is very open to doing business with women, minorities, and veterans.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":233,"title":"AssetMark Brings Operations Hub to Downtown Atlanta","promo_title":"AssetMark Brings Operations Hub to Downtown Atlanta","published_date":"2018-12-07","featured_image":{"id":771,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"downtown_skyline.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":1214052,"resource_updated_at":"2018-12-07T09:08:05.824-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-12-07T09:08:06.068-05:00","updated_at":"2018-12-07T09:08:58.418-05:00","filename_hash":"downtown_skyline_eXJVpoj.png","width":1200,"height":537},"filename":"assetmark-brings-operations-hub-to-downtown-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"YldbDw","created_at":"2018-12-07T09:08:58.381-05:00","updated_at":"2018-12-07T09:08:58.381-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n AssetMark, Inc., an independent provider of investment and consulting solutions for financial advisors, announced that they had\u0026nbsp;signed a lease for a 4,300 square foot software development office at 101 Marietta Street NW in Atlanta, Georgia.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAssetMark, Inc., an independent provider of investment and consulting solutions for financial advisors, announced that they had\u0026nbsp;signed a lease for a 4,300 square foot software development office at 101 Marietta Street NW in Atlanta, Georgia.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We want to welcome AssetMark to its new home in downtown Atlanta as they target their solutions to the country\u0026rsquo;s more than 300,000 independent financial advisors,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;Our city\u0026rsquo;s abundance of tech talent, strong business climate, educational institutions, and \u0026nbsp;financial services ecosystem continue to attract industry leaders like AssetMark. This announcement once again demonstrates Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s ability to bring top-tier financial technology companies to the heart of the city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLocated in the center of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s business district, the new office is in an area designated by the federal Opportunity Zones Program, which is designed to stimulate economic development through tax incentives for organizations investing in the community. The opening of AssetMark\u0026rsquo;s new office location will also create 13 new high-wage jobs in Fulton County.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Our excitement about this new office is twofold,\u0026rdquo; said Charles Goldman, President and CEO of AssetMark. \u0026ldquo;This expansion is a strategic investment in future AssetMark technology initiatives, and we are proud to play a part in the creation of economic opportunity in an Opportunity Zone in Georgia.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta has one of the country\u0026rsquo;s fastest-growing economies, and is becoming a hub of IT talent due to the city\u0026rsquo;s combination of affordable housing opportunities, local universities, and a growing community of FinTech startups.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e101 Marietta Street features state-of-the-art amenities, including a fitness center and renovated meeting spaces. The building is close to two MARTA rail stations, providing optimal accessibility to Metro Atlanta, and is located within walking distance of Centennial Olympic Park, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, the Georgia Aquarium, and CNN Center.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Site Selection\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":218,"title":"Small Business Spotlight: Sweet Auburn Seafood Approaching 4th Anniversary","promo_title":"Small Business Spotlight: Sweet Auburn Seafood Celebrates 4th Anniversary","published_date":"2018-09-12","featured_image":{"id":720,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"sweet_auburn_seafood.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":952316,"resource_updated_at":"2018-09-19T14:15:06.462-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":2,"created_at":"2018-09-19T14:15:06.707-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-19T14:21:31.385-04:00","filename_hash":"sweet_auburn_seafood_lpXVByv.jpg","width":5760,"height":2844},"filename":"small-business-spotlight-sweet-auburn-seafood-celebrates-4th-anniversary","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"dJ7q9g","created_at":"2018-09-19T14:15:38.817-04:00","updated_at":"2018-09-19T14:21:31.311-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Now approaching its fourth year in operation, Sweet Auburn Seafood is the largest restaurant along the Auburn Avenue corridor, providing an upscale, white tablecloth dining option for those living in or visiting Downtown Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eSweet Auburn Seafood owner Paul WIlliams didn\u0026rsquo;t grow up in Atlanta, but as a child, he read\u0026nbsp;about Auburn Avenue. For decades, the \u0026ldquo;Sweet Auburn\u0026rdquo; area was known nationwide as a key commercial corridor where African-American entrepreneurs could thrive.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This was the commercial hub for black businesses in Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Williams. \u0026ldquo;I really wanted\u0026nbsp;my name, my family name, to be part of the resurgence of this area.\u0026rdquo;\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe walls of the restaurant pay homage to this area\u0026#39;s unique history. Diners can see photos of people like Alonzo Herndon, the former slave who went on to found the Atlanta Life Insurance Company,\u0026nbsp;Herman J. Russell, who built a lasting legacy a leader in commercial real estate development in Atlanta, and of course, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., whose birth home sits a few blocks away.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We\u0026rsquo;ve tried to provide some sense of what the area used to look like,\u0026rdquo; said Williams.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eToday, Sweet Auburn Seafood is the largest restaurant along the corridor, providing an upscale, white tablecloth dining option for those living in or visiting Downtown Atlanta.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWilliams was a Wendy\u0026rsquo;s franchise for 20-plus years before he decided to create his own\u0026nbsp;independent restaurant brand. He chose to serve seafood, partly to differentiate\u0026nbsp;from the other restaurants in the area.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We said, \u0026lsquo;Well, let\u0026rsquo;s do something different, let\u0026rsquo;s give the area something different,\u0026rdquo; he said.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAnd though he admits it\u0026rsquo;s been \u0026ldquo;challenging and intimidating\u0026rdquo; at times, his restaurant has now been in operation since 2014. Customers appreciate how the restaurant pays homage to the area\u0026rsquo;s history and provides delicious food with high-caliber service.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eInvest Atlanta provided Sweet Auburn Seafood with a small business loan a few years ago to help them purchase kitchen equipment.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWilliams\u0026rsquo; advice for entrepreneurs: make sure this is really what you want to do.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This is not the kind of business that you want to try and see if you like it,\u0026rdquo; he said. \u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s got to be in your blood because it\u0026rsquo;s going to test you over and over and over every day.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;You\u0026rsquo;ve got to be committed to it to be successful at it.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":210,"title":"FlatironCity: Atlanta's Innovation Future Happening at Historic Atlanta Landmark","promo_title":"FlatironCity: Atlanta's Innovation Future Happening at Historic Atlanta Landmark","published_date":"2018-08-06","featured_image":{"id":688,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"flatironcity_1.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":107083,"resource_updated_at":"2018-08-06T13:49:40.025-04:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":5,"created_at":"2018-08-06T13:49:40.326-04:00","updated_at":"2020-04-07T12:39:12.376-04:00","filename_hash":"flatironcity_1_98O29Z4.jpg","width":1000,"height":667},"filename":"flatironcity-atlantas-future-within-a-historic-landmark","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"oViQ0A","created_at":"2018-08-06T13:51:20.345-04:00","updated_at":"2018-08-09T11:04:07.762-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Invest Atlanta team recently visited\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.flatironcity.com/\"\u003eFlatironCity\u003c/a\u003e\u0026nbsp;in Downtown Atlanta to learn more about the recent transformation of this Atlanta icon into a thriving innovation hub.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003cbr /\u003e\r\n\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta team recently visited \u003ca href=\"https://www.flatironcity.com/\"\u003eFlatironCity\u003c/a\u003e in Downtown Atlanta to learn more about the recent transformation of this Atlanta icon into a thriving innovation hub.\u0026nbsp; \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSonia Sequeira, FlatironCity\u0026rsquo;s Community Manager, was kind enough to show us around, tell us more about the building\u0026rsquo;s history, and share their vision of supporting entrepreneurs in the heart of Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;The developer envisioned transforming the building as a destination for start-ups, small business and enterprise companies creating an urban business community leveraging each other\u0026rsquo;s work culture, with Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s partnership,\u0026rdquo; said Sequeira. \u0026nbsp;\u0026ldquo;A big part of that is: how do you get more entrepreneurs Downtown? How can you bring more innovation here? And then, how does that result in more development in this whole area?\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project received a\u0026nbsp; Westside TAD investment from Invest Atlanta, as well as a New Markets Tax Credit allocation through Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe 120-year-old Flatiron Building opened in 1897\u0026mdash;five years before the one in New York\u0026mdash;and is the City of Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s oldest standing skyscraper. The whole building was gutted, renovated, and reopened about two years ago as a \u0026ldquo;melting pot\u0026rdquo; for entrepreneurs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Part of the vision of the building is that companies will grow from the co-working floor to take a bigger space within it,\u0026rdquo; said Sequeira. \u0026ldquo;You have an entrepreneur who\u0026rsquo;s just starting out, and as they\u0026rsquo;re growing, they can grow within the building rather than continually changing their address.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https://www.volantio.com/\"\u003eVolantio\u003c/a\u003e is a company that has grown quickly within the walls of FlatironCity. The company helps airlines better utilize their capacity, providing value for both their clients and airline passengers. They started with just three people working in a single office suite and have since grown to take up a floor of the building.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eOther FlatironCity tenants include the creative digital agency \u003ca href=\"http://www.launchagency.com/\"\u003eLaunch\u003c/a\u003e, the Women\u0026rsquo;s Entrepreneurship Initiative (\u003ca href=\"http://www.weiatlanta.com/\"\u003eWEI\u003c/a\u003e), Access to Capital for Entrepreneurs (\u003ca href=\"https://aceloans.org/\"\u003eACE\u003c/a\u003e), an industrial design company, and a culinary tour operator.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe building\u0026rsquo;s design contains call-backs to its history, as well as flourishes such as a caf\u0026eacute; lined with work from local artists.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;One of our goals is to connect entrepreneurs in our space through their interests outside of work as well, so we\u0026rsquo;ve hosted live music, the Peachfest\u0026nbsp;food festival downtown, and coffee tastings\u0026rdquo; said Sequeira. \u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRight outside the building along the new Broad Street boardwalk plaza, a \u0026ldquo;smart city canvas,\u0026rdquo; in partnership with the Metro Atlanta Chamber, is being tested out. This testing ground gives IoT tech startups the opportunity to demonstrate their products in a real-world environment. For example, \u003ca href=\"https://www.flatironcity.com/single-post/2018/04/19/bedowntown-Introducing-Soofa-the-new-tech-on-Broad-Street\"\u003eSoofa\u003c/a\u003e has installed solar-powered benches where passersby can charge their wireless devices.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIt\u0026rsquo;s no surprise that FlatironCity was awarded the \u003ca href=\"https://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/flatironcity-named-uli-atlantas-2017-project-of-the-year\"\u003e2017 Project of the Year\u003c/a\u003e by The Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta at the organization\u0026rsquo;s annual Awards of Excellence.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":172,"title":"Atlanta Tech Start-Up Volantio Secures $2.6 Million in Financing","promo_title":"Atlanta Tech Start-Up Volantio Secures $2.6 Million in Financing","published_date":"2018-02-12","featured_image":{"id":539,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"volantio_hype_new.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":185968,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-20T11:42:22.554-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-20T11:42:22.593-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:53:45.408-05:00","filename_hash":"volantio_hype_new_eXX2b2e.jpg","width":800,"height":600},"filename":"atlanta-tech-start-up-volantio-secures-26-million-in-financing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"kJVHwQ","created_at":"2018-02-20T11:42:34.588-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:53:45.393-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Volantio, a global leader in post-booking revenue and capacity optimization software for airlines, announced a $2.6M Series B funding round.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eVolantio, a global leader in post-booking revenue and capacity optimization software for airlines, announced a $2.6M Series B funding round led by Ingleside Investors and strategic investors International Airlines Group (IAG), JetBlue Technology Ventures, and Qantas Ventures.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are extremely proud that the investment arms of three key global aviation leaders, spanning three distinct geographies, have chosen to back Volantio and its market leading technology\u0026rdquo; said Azim Barodawala, Volantio\u0026rsquo;s CEO.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe offices of Volantio can be found at Flatiron City in Downtown Atlanta, thanks in part to assistance from Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s business attraction team. The company was also a participant in the \u003ca href=\"http://www.investatlanta.com/impact-insights/companies-announced-for-2017-atlanta-international-startup-exchange\"\u003e2017 Atlanta International Startup Exchange\u003c/a\u003e, which allowed them to travel to Toulouse, France and connect with prospective customers.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eYanaTM, Volantio\u0026rsquo;s flagship web-based platform, leverages machine learning algorithms to drive higher unit revenues and improved capacity utilization after customers have booked their flights, while also improving overall customer experience. Airlines use the technology to proactively identify flexible passengers on high demand flights, make them offers to move to lower demand flights, and automatically rebook them once they accept. Passengers are notified, via mobile, days in advance of departure, minimizing last-minute hassle and providing enough time to change plans accordingly. Offers can include upgrades, travel vouchers, and frequent flier points.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026quot;Our platform provides a rare triple-win,\u0026rdquo; said Barodawala. \u0026ldquo;Flexible passengers receive a benefit for changing their travel plans, last-minute travelers are able to access flights that otherwise would have been full, and airlines can better maximize network capacity and unit revenue, while putting greater predictability and control back in the hands of their customers.\u0026quot;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":162,"title":"Cristo Rey Atlanta Officially Opens New Downtown Building","promo_title":"Cristo Rey Atlanta Officially Opens New Downtown Building","published_date":"2018-01-31","featured_image":{"id":508,"parent_id":5,"resource_file_name":"cristo_rey_main-1024x529.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":113713,"resource_updated_at":"2018-02-06T14:59:09.757-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2018-02-06T14:59:09.786-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:54:51.689-05:00","filename_hash":"cristo_rey_main-1024x529_r6NxO1m.jpg","width":1024,"height":529},"filename":"cristo-rey-atlanta-officially-opens-new-downtown-building","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"AaYMWg","created_at":"2018-02-04T13:31:14.874-05:00","updated_at":"2018-02-22T08:54:51.675-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Cristo Rey Atlanta celebrated the grand opening of their new 88,000 square-foot Downtown facility with the help of several high-profile guests, including Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Governor Nathan Deal.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2018","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eCristo Rey Atlanta celebrated the grand opening of their new 88,000 square-foot Downtown facility with the help of several high-profile guests, including Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and Governor Nathan Deal.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I want you all to know that as a city, we continue to support you, we continue to cheer you on and we continue to await your leadership,\u0026rdquo; Mayor Bottoms said during the ribbon-cutting ceremony. \u0026ldquo;Because you are the future of our great city. You are the example that we want all of our communities to model.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eIn early 2017,\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.atlantaemergingmarkets.org/\"\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc.\u003c/a\u003e, Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s certified Community Development Entity, closed an $11 million New Markets Tax Credits transaction to help Cristo Rey Atlanta complete the renovations of their new building. Raza Development Fund and SunTrust Bank also provided NMTC allocations.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Invest Atlanta has done so much work with all of our partners to make sure that we are here today,\u0026rdquo; added Mayor Bottoms. \u0026ldquo;On your toughest days, please remember there\u0026rsquo;s a city that stands behind you, a city that stands with you, there\u0026rsquo;s a city awaiting your future.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCristo Rey Atlanta (CRA) is an independent affiliate of the Cristo Rey Network of 32 schools nationally. The CR network serves students of limited means, most whom are Hispanic or African-American, and combines a challenging college preparatory curriculum with extracurricular activities and an innovative Corporate Work Study Program. CRA\u0026nbsp;was previously leasing its campus, serving nearly 400 students from grades 9-11. The new facility will allow them to accept an incoming freshman class and serve 520 total students, with the capacity to grow enrollment to 600 in the future.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe campus also provides\u0026nbsp;CRA with resources that were previously unavailable, such as a gymnasium, assembly space, music and arts space, and their own kitchen. The $27 million project is located on Piedmont Avenue in a central location near multiple MARTA stops and bus lines to maximize the area that can be served by the school. The project is anticipated to retain 42 and create approximately 22 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) positions.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eLast year, Cristo Rey partnered with 100 Atlanta businesses to place every student in an office work-study job while completing their academic studies.\u0026nbsp;CRA exclusively serves Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s economically disadvantaged students of all faiths by opening the door to excellence in higher education, the workforce, community citizenship and Catholic values. Religion is not a criteria for admission, and 48% of the student body is non-Catholic. Low family income is the number one qualifying criterion for CRA students. The average household income for CRA families is $30,500 (no household income exceeds $15,000 per dependent). 98% of CRA students qualify for the federal free and reduced lunch program.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe academic rigor and innovative work-study program has helped 100 percent of Cristo Rey graduates earn college acceptance since 1996. In most cases, these students will be the first person in their extended family to go to college, providing them with a path to opportunity. Across the CR Network, students\u0026mdash;95% of whom are first generation college students\u0026mdash;complete college at a rate over 2.5 times that of their non-Cristo Rey peers in the same income cohort.\u0026nbsp; For the class of 2018, CRA projects that 70% of its graduates will complete a bachelor\u0026rsquo;s degree within 5 years, or nearly 5 times the average rate for low-income high school graduates.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) offers service providers like Cristo Rey flexible financing to support catalytic projects that serve low-income residents. In November 2016, AEMI received a $50 million NMTC allocation from the U.S. Department of Treasury.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBesides Cristo Rey, AEMI provided NMTC allocation to several other important projects in 2017, including the Grady Hospital Women\u0026rsquo;s and Infants\u0026rsquo; Center, the Boys \u0026amp; Girls Club Innovation and Expression Studio (TIES), the YMCA headquarters, and Civic Impact Loans.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":15,"title":"FlatironCity Named ULI Atlanta’s 2017 Project of the Year","promo_title":"FlatironCity Named ULI Atlanta’s 2017 Project of the Year","published_date":"2017-09-15","featured_image":{"id":222,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"flatiron_poty_iainsight.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":905179,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T14:28:44.937-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T14:28:45.114-05:00","updated_at":"2018-08-03T15:18:50.421-04:00","filename_hash":"flatiron_poty_iainsight_mpoaK91.png","width":1029,"height":628},"filename":"flatironcity-named-uli-atlantas-2017-project-of-the-year","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"BQTw3Q","created_at":"2017-12-20T14:30:28.854-05:00","updated_at":"2018-08-03T15:18:50.404-04:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n FlatironCity was awarded the 2017 Project of the Year by ULI Atlanta at the organization\u0026rsquo;s annual Awards of Excellence.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eFlatironCity was awarded the 2017 Project of the Year by The Urban Land Institute (ULI) Atlanta at the organization\u0026rsquo;s annual Awards of Excellence. Invest Atlanta supported the renovation of the Flatiron building, Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s oldest skyscraper, into a next-generation office space.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project received a $1.5 million Westside TAD investment from Invest Atlanta, as well as a $11.2 million New Markets Tax Credit allocation through Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The financing for this project was particularly creative, using various public and private sector financial tools,\u0026rdquo; one award juror told the\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2017/09/15/project-of-the-year-flatiron-city-transforms.htm\"\u003eAtlanta Business Chronicle\u003c/a\u003e. \u0026ldquo;In addition, this project took an existing Atlanta asset that was a burden in an important location downtown and repurposed it through adaptive reuse into a source of energy and creativity.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":25,"title":"AEMI Supports Renovation of Grady Women’s and Infants’ Center","promo_title":"AEMI Supports Renovation of Grady Women’s and Infants’ Center","published_date":"2017-08-16","featured_image":{"id":232,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"grady_feature.png","resource_content_type":"image/png","resource_file_size":838679,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-20T15:14:03.304-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-20T15:14:03.458-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T15:14:56.794-05:00","filename_hash":"grady_feature_7J634Dl.png","width":768,"height":577},"filename":"aemi-supports-renovation-of-grady-womens-and-infants-center","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"IOy-7A","created_at":"2017-12-20T15:14:56.377-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-20T15:14:56.377-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Grady Hospital\u0026rsquo;s Women\u0026rsquo;s and Infants\u0026rsquo; Center will undergo a $20 million renovation and expansion.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eGrady Hospital\u0026rsquo;s Women\u0026rsquo;s and Infants\u0026rsquo; Center will undergo a $20 million renovation and expansion, thanks in part to funding from a New Markets Tax Credit allocation received through\u0026nbsp;\u003ca href=\"http://www.atlantaemergingmarkets.org/\"\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI)\u003c/a\u003e. (AEMI is a certified Community Development Entity created by Invest Atlanta in 2006 that specializes in providing gap financing for large-scale, high-impact projects in Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s distressed neighborhoods.)\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eGrady\u0026rsquo;s Women\u0026rsquo;s and Infants\u0026rsquo; Center is home to the only specialized obstetric ICU in Georgia and serves prenatal and gynecological care for vulnerable populations not able to receive care elsewhere. Once the renovation project is complete, the Center, which has not received substantial upgrades in more than two decades, will be able to provide improved medical services to thousands more women. Grady estimates they\u0026rsquo;ll be able to handle 20% more deliveries (up to 3,700 annually), 29% more prenatal visits (around 17,500 annually), and 37% more services visits for women (around 13,000 annually).\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe care provided to Grady\u0026rsquo;s patients will improve, thanks to better coordination for prenatal, birthing, and post-partum care, as well as the installation of modern design and equipment. The upgrades will also result in operational efficiencies at one of the most important public hospitals in the southeast, and the creation of 50 full-time jobs.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAEMI officially closed on an $8 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation on Wednesday, August 16. The Urban Research Park CDE and SunTrust are allocating $12 million and $2 million in NMTC respectively. Grady is covering the remaining project cost.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eConstruction has already begun, and the first phase of the project is expected to be complete by the end of this year. The second phase is slated to begin in 2018.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe improved Women\u0026rsquo;s and Infants\u0026rsquo; Center will help Grady perform at the highest levels of patient satisfaction, clinical quality, and operation efficiency, while delivering more for women and children when it matters most.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":53,"title":"Grant to Fund Affordable Workforce Housing in Downtown Development","promo_title":"Grant to Fund Affordable Workforce Housing in Downtown Development","published_date":"2017-06-20","featured_image":{"id":262,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"161_peachtree_feature_1.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":63990,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:48:59.602-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T10:48:59.755-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:50:04.702-05:00","filename_hash":"161_peachtree_feature_1_XJ5YRL4.jpg","width":852,"height":640},"filename":"grant-to-fund-affordable-workforce-housing-in-downtown-development","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"fg_rcQ","created_at":"2017-12-21T10:50:04.095-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T10:50:04.095-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Board of Directors approved a $9 million Eastside TAD grant to develop a residential tower with sixty affordable units.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAt their June 15 meeting, the Invest Atlanta Board of Directors passed a resolution approving the use of $9 million from the Eastside Tax Allocation District (TAD) for the development of a $90.5 million, 14-story, 302-unit residential tower at 161 Peachtree Center Avenue in Downtown Atlanta. Sixty of the units, or 20 percent of the total units, will be set aside as affordable workforce housing.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;I am pleased that Invest Atlanta is able to support a new residential development in Downtown Atlanta with 20 percent affordable, workforce housing units,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Kasim Reed. \u0026ldquo;The development at 161 Peachtree will be the second new residential development for families and young professionals in Downtown Atlanta in the past decade, demonstrating that developers are growing increasingly confident about building in the core of our city. This is another example of how we are taking action to ensure high-quality, affordable housing options for all families.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBanyan Street Capital LLC, the owner of Peachtree Center, is proposing to partner with Greystar, a national multifamily developer and property manager, to build the residential tower above an existing parking garage adjacent to Peachtree Center.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project will bring approximately 150 temporary construction jobs, and more than $90M in capital investment to the Downtown area. The total economic impact of the project is estimated at more than $129 million. Construction is expected to begin in early 2018.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;This project will not only attract more residents and commercial activity to Downtown, but activate an existing structure in a new and innovative way that brings greater affordability and mobility to Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;With 20 percent of the units being offered at 80 percent of area median income, more working families can live within a short walk or transit trip from Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s jobs centers.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe news about the 161 Peachtree residential tower continues the positive economic momentum already underway in Downtown Atlanta. Post Centennial Park apartment complex will open soon, and construction of the Castleberry Park and Hard Rock Hotel development is underway. In addition, WRS, Inc. will soon begin the redevelopment of Underground Atlanta into a live-work-play destination, ensuring significant investment in the South Downtown area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":81,"title":"Mayor Kasim Reed Announces Closing of Sale of Underground Atlanta","promo_title":"Mayor Kasim Reed Announces Closing of Sale of Underground Atlanta","published_date":"2017-03-31","featured_image":{"id":291,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"underground_rendering_400.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":57738,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:40:54.393-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T13:40:54.542-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:41:15.559-05:00","filename_hash":"underground_rendering_400_azn338W.jpg","width":425,"height":319},"filename":"mayor-kasim-reed-announces-closing-of-sale-of-underground-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"lAPYvg","created_at":"2017-12-21T13:41:14.843-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:41:14.843-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Mayor Kasim Reed announced the closing of the sale of Underground Atlanta to WRS, Inc. for $34.6 million.\u0026nbsp;\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eMayor Kasim Reed announced on March 31, 2017 the closing of the sale of Underground Atlanta to WRS, Inc. for $34.6 million. WRS, Inc., a real estate investment company based in Charleston, South Carolina, will redevelop the 12-acre site into a live-work-shop community with retail, hospitality, entertainment and residential space. The sale will result in $8 million annual cost savings for the City.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;The sale of Underground Atlanta is another milestone in the revitalization of South Downtown Atlanta,\u0026rdquo; said Mayor Reed. \u0026ldquo;WRS, Inc. brings a high level of expertise and strong track record of successful developments to an area of our City in need of a fresh approach. Based on the City\u0026rsquo;s track record with Ponce City Market, the Lakewood Fairgrounds (now EUE Screen Gems) and Buckhead Atlanta, I am confident that we will succeed in transforming Underground Atlanta into a vibrant component of our City\u0026rsquo;s commercial business district.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eMayor Reed announced the sale of Underground Atlanta in 2014. Earlier this month, the Board of Directors of DDA approved WRS\u0026rsquo;s master development concept plan, which approval was necessary in order to close the sale of Underground Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSince announcing the sale of Underground Atlanta to WRS, Inc. nearly two years ago, the City has facilitated and participated in numerous public conversations with stakeholders, residents and the developer. In their commitment to being an excellent partner for Atlanta and the surrounding downtown community, the firm has agreed to meet the requirements of the City\u0026rsquo;s affordable housing ordinance, regardless of whether it pursues development incentives. Any multi-family development at Underground Atlanta will include 10 or 15 percent units at 60 or 80 percent AMI \u0026ndash; a tremendous opportunity for working families to live in the new residential development.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s been more than 30 years since we\u0026rsquo;ve seen any significant investment in this high-potential area of Downtown,\u0026rdquo; said Dr. Eloisa Klementich, President and CEO of Invest Atlanta. \u0026ldquo;As new development moves south from Buckhead and Midtown, Downtown is seeing a surge of new catalytic investments like Post Centennial, Castleberry Park, the redevelopment of Turner Field, and the Atlanta Streetcar. The sale of Underground will enable Downtown to continue its resurgence by bringing new business activity, more jobs, and additional housing to this unique and cherished part of our city.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWRS, Inc. has also agreed to preserve a grid for public pedestrian and bicycle use on Alabama Street and Pryor Street; to share its written plan for community engagement to be conducted throughout the development process, which has been approved by the Atlanta Downtown Neighborhood Association, Inc. and the City; and to accept protective covenants which require the preservation of certain portions of Underground Atlanta that are historical in nature. WRS also agreed to accept the Downtown Development Authority\u0026rsquo;s (DDA) right to approve the master development concept plan for this project as well as any material modifications thereof, but only after public advertisement and opportunity for public review and comment of the modifications have been provided. These agreements will be memorialized in protective covenants and easements that run with the land and will bind WRS and future owners of Underground Atlanta. These agreements demonstrate WRS\u0026rsquo;s ongoing strong partnership with our city and with downtown stakeholders.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Some years ago, the idea of redeveloping Underground Atlanta was evidently slightly unseen and more than a few folks were skeptical, including skepticism from our peers. Not surprisingly, popular sentiment has certainly changed in a favorable direction,\u0026rdquo; said Scott Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of WRS, Inc. \u0026ldquo;We have always been and remain strong believers in the potential for great things in downtown Atlanta and Underground in particular. The redevelopment of Underground is a truly unique opportunity, something that cannot be found anywhere else in the Southeast. For us as developers, this represents an incredibly awesome opportunity and we know that it also represents an equally awesome responsibility. We take both very seriously. Somewhat distinct from other projects in Atlanta, Underground Atlanta holds a special place in the memories of many people. We intend to undertake this redevelopment with great care, communicate closely with the neighboring constituents and most importantly we intend to create a new community that makes everyone very proud of this corner of the rapidly changing downtown Atlanta landscape.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe DDA was created in 1982 by state law to revitalize and redevelop Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s central business district. The City and DDA have jointly owned Underground Atlanta since August 1986. In April 2014, the City purchased a long-term sublease to make the property available for revitalization and redevelopment.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eWRS, Inc. has a significant track record in retail development. WRS, Inc. has developed over thirty anchored shopping centers covering seven million square feet of retail space and has also aided in the development of more than 100 additional retail projects encompassing more than ten million square feet of retail space. Notable development projects in the WRS, Inc. portfolio include the Horizon District in South Carolina, an urban research district that will contain over 2.5 million square feet of mixed-used space with street-level retail, restaurant and office space, and workforce housing. The company has also developed a number of retail anchored projects for nationally known corporations including Belk, Staples, Kohl\u0026rsquo;s, and Dick\u0026rsquo;s Sporting Goods.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;It\u0026rsquo;s exciting to see a new chapter in Underground Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s history begin,\u0026rdquo; said A.J. Robinson, President of Central Atlanta Progress. \u0026ldquo;We support the WRS vision and capability to bring the density of mixed uses to the 12 acres of downtown Atlanta that has so much potential. Bravo to the city and WRS for reaching an agreement.\u0026rdquo;\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":85,"title":"AEMI Helps Cristo Rey Serve More Students","promo_title":"AEMI Helps Cristo Rey Serve More Students","published_date":"2017-03-09","featured_image":{"id":295,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"invest-atlanta-helps-cristo-rey-serve-more-students-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":88433,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:52:44.763-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T13:52:44.936-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:53:01.687-05:00","filename_hash":"invest-atlanta-helps-cristo-rey-serve-more-students-featured_1OmY6ZP.jpg","width":800,"height":600},"filename":"aemi-helps-cristo-rey-serve-more-students","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"u4tWNw","created_at":"2017-12-21T13:53:01.126-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T13:53:01.126-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n An $11 million New Markets Tax Credits transaction will help Cristo Rey Atlanta complete renovations of their new Downtown building.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2017","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc., Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s certified Community Development Entity, has closed an $11 million New Markets Tax Credits transaction that will allow Cristo Rey Atlanta to complete the renovations of their new high school building in Downtown Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe Cristo Rey network serves students of limited means, most whom are Hispanic or African-American, and combines a challenging college preparatory curriculum with extracurricular activities and an innovative Corporate Work Study Program. This year, Cristo Rey partnered with 100 Atlanta businesses to place every student in an office work-study job while completing their academic studies. The academic rigor and innovative work-study program has helped 100 percent of Cristo Rey graduates earn college acceptance since 1996. In most cases, these students will be the first person in their extended family to go to college, providing them with a path to opportunity.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eCristo Rey Atlanta currently leases its existing campus, and with nearly 400 students from grades 9-11, is at capacity. The new 88,000 square-foot Downtown facility will allow them to accept an incoming freshman class and serve 520 total students, with the capacity to grow enrollment to 600 in the future. The campus also provides Cristo Rey Atlanta with resources that were previously unavailable, such as a gymnasium, assembly space, music and arts space, and their own kitchen.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eAtlanta Emerging Markets, Inc. (AEMI) offers service providers like Cristo Rey flexible financing to support catalytic projects that serve low-income residents.\u0026nbsp;In November 2016, AEMI received a $50 million NMTC allocation from the U.S. Department of Treasury. In December, AEMI closed on another education-focused transaction\u0026mdash;an early childhood education center operated by Sheltering Arms in the Peoplestown neighborhood.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eRenovations on the seven-story Cristo Rey\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":138,"title":"Atlanta Emerging Markets Provides Funding For Grady Hospital Expansion","promo_title":"Atlanta Emerging Markets Provides Funding For Grady Hospital Expansion","published_date":"2016-10-19","featured_image":{"id":370,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"nmtc-entity-provides-funding-for-grady-hospital-expansion-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":89405,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:51:39.412-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T15:51:39.553-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:52:28.210-05:00","filename_hash":"nmtc-entity-provides-funding-for-grady-hospital-expansion-featured_kbVye65.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"atlanta-emerging-markets-provides-funding-for-grady-hospital-expansion","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"HKrMJg","created_at":"2017-12-21T15:52:27.741-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T15:52:27.741-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n Grady Hospital dedicated the new Marcus Trauma and Emergency Center building on its Downtown campus.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eIn October, Grady Hospital dedicated the new Marcus Trauma and Emergency Center building on its Downtown campus. Atlanta Emerging Markets, Inc., Invest Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) entity, partnered with SunTrust Community Capital to provide $3.3 million in funding for the development of the new 90,000-square-foot tower that will allow Grady to serve 20,000 additional patients each year.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe completed $76 million project will house all Grady Hospital Emergency Department functions, create a total patient capacity of 135,000, and provide enough trauma bays to accommodate 25,000 trauma patients each year \u0026ndash; up from 18,000 currently. New additions will include triage areas, 10 exam rooms for imaging and procedures, and 12 exam rooms for clinical and behavioral health.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eSunTrust Community Capital and Community Hospitality Healthcare Services (CHHS) also contributed NMTC allocations to the project.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":104,"title":"Pop-Culture Behemoth Dragon Con Marks 30th Anniversary in Atlanta","promo_title":"Pop-Culture Behemoth Dragon Con Marks 30th Anniversary in Atlanta","published_date":"2016-09-06","featured_image":{"id":333,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"pop-culture-behemoth-dragon-con-marks-30th-anniversary-in-atlanta-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":86900,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:37:26.670-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T14:37:26.817-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:14.233-05:00","filename_hash":"pop-culture-behemoth-dragon-con-marks-30th-anniversary-in-atlanta-featured_6aNEkbl.jpg","width":400,"height":300},"filename":"pop-culture-behemoth-dragon-con-marks-30th-anniversary-in-atlanta","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"GBarAQ","created_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:13.821-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:38:13.821-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A record crowd of 77,000 people descended on Downtown and surrounding areas over Labor Day weekend for Dragon Con.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA record crowd of 77,000 people descended on Downtown and surrounding areas over Labor Day weekend for the 30th annual incarnation of Dragon Con, one of the world\u0026rsquo;s premier pop-culture conferences and an event that directly contributed $67 million to the Atlanta economy in 2015.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDragon Con has become an international mecca for science fiction, comics and gaming enthusiasts, and has produced a spectacular display of costuming by its fans that becomes more inventive and stunning with each passing year. The most visible event of Dragon Con, the annual parade, draws more marchers and observers than any other parade in Atlanta. Many of the world\u0026rsquo;s most celebrated authors, actors and rock n\u0026rsquo; roll bands have appeared or performed at Dragon Con.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;Dragon Con is a celebration of everything people love, a place where you can be who you want to be, see old friends and meet new ones,\u0026rdquo; said Dan Carroll, Dragon Con\u0026rsquo;s spokesman.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThis year\u0026rsquo;s record-setting attendance represents a nearly 25 percent increase in the last three years and is a far cry from the 1,200 participants who came to the inaugural event in Atlanta. Fans came from around the world and all 50 states, with this year\u0026rsquo;s convention attracting people from as far away as Japan, New Zealand, and Fiji. And for the first time, the Dragon Con parade was broadcast live on local television, taking Dragon Con to homes throughout Atlanta who couldn\u0026rsquo;t make it in person.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003e\u0026ldquo;We are welcoming the second generation of fans with more and more families making Dragon Con part of their annual traditions,\u0026rdquo; added Carroll.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eDragon Con is spread across five host hotels and two Americas Mart buildings, with fans staying at some two dozen more overflow hotels throughout the city. The scope of Dragon Con, and the success it has enjoyed, has been a testament to Atlanta\u0026rsquo;s ability to smoothly and efficiently host mega-events.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Businesses\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":97,"title":"Invest Atlanta Facilitates Renovation of Georgia Pacific HQ building","promo_title":"Invest Atlanta Facilitates Renovation of Georgia Pacific HQ building","published_date":"2016-04-21","featured_image":{"id":318,"parent_id":34,"resource_file_name":"invest-atlanta-lease-purchase-bonds-facilitating-renovation-of-georgia-pacific-hq-building-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":57743,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:24:59.007-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T14:24:59.133-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:25:31.389-05:00","filename_hash":"invest-atlanta-lease-purchase-bonds-facilitating-renovation-of-georgia-pacific-hq-building-featured_kbVyYRJ.jpg","width":427,"height":320},"filename":"invest-atlanta-facilitates-renovation-of-georgia-pacific-hq-building","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"yY0TGg","created_at":"2017-12-21T14:25:31.014-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T14:25:31.014-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n The Board of Directors authorized a $150 million lease purchase inducement resolution to finance a major renovation of the building.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eThe Invest Atlanta Board of Directors authorized a $150 million lease purchase inducement resolution to finance a major renovation of the Georgia-Pacific headquarters building. The privately-placed bond transaction, which carries no liability for the City of Atlanta or Invest Atlanta, will enable Georgia-Pacific to reconfigure 23 floors of its 34-year-old building in downtown Atlanta.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eBy modernizing its headquarters offices with this funding, Georgia-Pacific will maintain its 2,600 headquarters employees at the downtown site and be in position to relocate up to 600 additional Georgia-Pacific employees to that site. The project also makes it possible to lease office space to other businesses within the building, which could bring up to 700 more workers onto the premises.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe project includes technological upgrades to make the company more attractive to younger, tech-savvy workers, and energy efficiency improvements that will reduce costs for lighting, heating and air conditioning, and water consumption.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"},{"id":142,"title":"Grant Is Catalyst for Post Centennial Park Housing","promo_title":"Grant Is Catalyst for Post Centennial Park Housing","published_date":"2016-03-16","featured_image":{"id":374,"parent_id":33,"resource_file_name":"grant-is-catalyst-for-post-centennial-park-housing-featured.jpg","resource_content_type":"image/jpeg","resource_file_size":74255,"resource_updated_at":"2017-12-21T16:00:28.582-05:00","caption":"","description":null,"attachable_id":null,"attachable_type":null,"assets_resource_uses_count":1,"created_at":"2017-12-21T16:00:28.736-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T16:00:48.336-05:00","filename_hash":"grant-is-catalyst-for-post-centennial-park-housing-featured_E6x2QQW.jpg","width":427,"height":320},"filename":"grant-is-catalyst-for-post-centennial-park-housing","meta_data_id":null,"published":true,"token":"500nOw","created_at":"2017-12-21T16:00:47.757-05:00","updated_at":"2017-12-21T16:00:47.757-05:00","video_link":"","promo_description":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg-basic promo_description\"\u003e\n A $4.35-million Westside Tax Allocation District grant approved by Invest Atlanta will help finance construction of Post Centennial Park.\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","project_year":"2016","content":"\u003cdiv class=\"datatype-wysiwyg content\"\u003e\n \u003cp\u003eA $4.35-million Westside Tax Allocation District grant approved by Invest Atlanta will help finance construction of Post Centennial Park, a 438-unit apartment community located across the street from the Center for Civil and Human rights and the World of Coca-Cola in downtown Atlanta. Post Properties is the developer for the project, which broke ground in February and should be completed sometime in the spring of 2018.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eThe grant leverages a $95-million lease purchase bond towards total project costs, resulting in a $4.5-million tax incentive.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eTen percent of the units, or 44 homes, will be allocated to workforce housing at Post Centennial Park, which is the first new non-student rental development in the Westside/Downtown district in the past 15 years. Workforce households are those that earn 80 percent of the area median income of the Atlanta Metropolitan Statistical Area.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\r\n\u003cp\u003eReplacing a blighted parking surface, this new community is expected to add about 800 residents to the downtown population.\u003c/p\u003e\r\n\n\u003c/div\u003e\n","category_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field category_id\"\u003e\n Development\n\u003c/span\u003e\n","location_id":"\u003cspan class=\"datatype-select_field location_id\"\u003e\n Downtown\n\u003c/span\u003e\n"}]}
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