Gateway to Growth FAQs

Gateway to Growth Application

Q: Is there a fee to apply for or participate in Cohort #1 of the Gateway to Growth Academy?

A: No. There are no application or participation fees.

Q: Can a company submit multiple Gateway to Growth Academy applications?

A: No. Only one Gateway to Growth Academy application per company will be considered, and no more than one company representative (the business owner) can participate in the program.

Q: When will the courses begin and end?

A: The inaugural cohort will begin on Monday, March 2, 2026, and end on Thursday, April 30, 2026.

Q: How many participants will be admitted in Cohort #1?

A: The inaugural Gateway to Growth cohort will include up to 25 participants.

Q: What do Gateway to Growth participants receive after completing the program?

A: Gateway to Growth graduates will receive a Certificate of Completion demonstrating program completion. The graduation ceremony is scheduled in person during National Small Business Week (Monday, May 4, 2026 – Friday, May 8, 2026).

Q: Will Gateway to Growth graduates receive a Concession contract for completing the program?

A: No. All small businesses interested in opportunities, including those representing Gateway to Growth graduates, will be required to submit responses to solicitations in accordance with the City of Atlanta’s competitive procurement process, which the City’s Department of Procurement manages.