ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN OPELIKA
The Opelika Chamber is dedicated to cultivating a thriving culture of entrepreneurship that drives innovation and strengthens our local economy. Through strong partnerships with the City of Opelika, Auburn University’s Lowder Center, the Guide Resource Group, and other community allies, we provide small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and connections they need to succeed. From hosting impactful events like the Small Business Summit, Business License and Tax Seminar, and Business Bootcamp - to offering pathways that end in valuable certifications - we are committed to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. By amplifying local success stories, sharing opportunities through our calendar of events, and celebrating the impact of small business in Opelika, we are building a community where entrepreneurs can launch, grow, and thrive.
PARTNERSHIPS
THE GUIDE RESOURCE GROUP
The Guide Resource Group is a collective of experts and organizations dedicated to helping entrepreneurs in the Auburn-Opelika area navigate every stage of starting and growing a small business. Through their network, entrepreneurs gain access to tailored advice, resources, and connections that meet them where they are in their business journey. The Opelika Chamber partners with Guide to host the annual Small Business Summit, a full-day event designed to equip entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed. From business planning and bookkeeping to HR, branding, and sales, attendees learn directly from seasoned professionals while building relationships with peers and mentors. This partnership ensures that Opelika’s small business community has the guidance, confidence, and support to thrive.
THE CITY OF OPELIKA
The City of Opelika is a vital partner in supporting small businesses by ensuring entrepreneurs have the knowledge and resources to navigate local processes with confidence. Together with the Opelika Chamber, the City co-hosts the Business License & Tax Seminar, an annual workshop that helps business owners understand licensing requirements, inspections, and tax compliance. Through panel discussions with city officials and hands-on guidance from tax experts, participants gain a clear step-by-step overview of local regulations while also connecting with peers and community leaders. This partnership empowers Opelika’s entrepreneurs to stay compliant, informed, and prepared for long-term success.
AUBURN UNIVERSITY LOWDER CENTER
The Lowder Center for Family Business and Entrepreneurship at Auburn University serves as a catalyst for Alabama’s entrepreneurial growth, inspiring collaboration and sparking action as individuals transform ideas into meaningful businesses that create lasting community impact. The Opelika Chamber partners with the Lowder Center to co-host the Business Bootcamp, a six-week course that equips aspiring and current entrepreneurs with the knowledge, resources, and tools to strengthen their business ventures. Participants leave not only with practical skills and connections but also with certifications that signal their readiness to grow and succeed in today’s competitive marketplace.
HEAR FROM LOCAL ENTREPRENEURS
