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W O M E N ABOUT B U S I N E S S 72 maconmagazine.com | April/May 2026 Yo u n g & As s o c i a te s C o n s u l t i n g F i r m L LC Tia Young – Ceo 478.207.9135 | youngandco.consulting@gmail.com What is the mission of your business? Young & Associates Consulting Firm LLC empowers nonprofi ts and small businesses by securing funding through strategic, high- quality grant writing. We help clients access resources, grow sustainably, and expand their impact to strengthen communities and create lasting change. What services or products do you off er, and how do they meet a need or satisfy a want for Central Georgians? Young & Associates Consulting Firm LLC provides professional grant writing and funding support to help nonprofi ts, small businesses, schools, and community organizations in Central Georgia secure the resources they need to grow and increase their impact. Our services include grant research, proposal writing, application submission, budget development, grant readiness assessments, and strategic funding planning to support long-term sustainability. What is your advice for women wanting to start their own business, going back to work, or starting a new career in Central Georgia? My advice for women in Central Georgia who want to start a business, return to the workforce, or begin a new career is simple: Start where you are, use what you have, and don't wait until everything feels perfect. First, be clear about your goal. Whether you want to launch a business, change careers, or re-enter the workforce, take time to identify your skills, interests, and long-term vision. Second, take advantage of local resources. Central Georgia off ers workforce development programs, small business support organizations, networking groups, and training opportunities. Most importantly, believe in your ability to grow. Fear, self-doubt, and waiting for the "right time" o en hold women back more than a lack of opportunity. What do you love about Macon? What are you most excited about in our region? What I love most about Macon is the strong sense of community. It's a city where people support one another, small businesses are valued, and relationships matter. What has been the most challenging part of being a female business owner or professional woman? As a 21-year-old female business owner, one of the most challenging parts has been being taken seriously. Because of my age and gender, there are times when people question my experience, credibility, or ability before they truly understand my skills, work ethic, and professionalism. Jessica Whitley