Spotlight: Nicole Love Hendrickson, Chairwoman of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners
Since assuming her role as Chairwoman of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners in 2021, Nicole Love Hendrickson has been a driving force behind numerous initiatives that support business growth and community development. Through her leadership, Gwinnett County and Gateway85 CID has enhanced their positions as a hub for businesses, both large and small, creating a welcoming environment for enterprises from entrepreneurs to global corporations.
One of Hendrickson’s proudest accomplishments is the opening of Gwinnett’s first-ever Entrepreneur Center, which provides resources and guidance for small and minority-owned businesses. The center helps these businesses access capital, navigate the complexities of working with the county and build a foundation for long-term success. “Gwinnett County is an international destination for small businesses and we’ve worked hard to ensure that minority and women-owned businesses have a fighting chance to thrive,” Hendrickson shared. “Through workshops, contracting opportunities and business training, we’re helping entrepreneurs strengthen their businesses and become part of Gwinnett’s growing economy.”
Hendrickson also highlighted the county’s streamlined approach to supporting business development, which has won awards for efficiency. The county’s one-stop shop for permitting allows businesses to handle all their licensing and regulatory needs in one place. “We’ve streamlined the process for businesses, making it smooth and efficient. It’s something we’re very proud of because businesses have told us that in other jurisdictions, the process can be much more complicated,” she noted. This user-friendly approach has made Gwinnett a top choice for businesses looking to set up operations quickly and seamlessly.
Public safety is another key area where Hendrickson has worked to support the business community. With investments in Flock Safety cameras and other advanced technologies, Gwinnett County the Gateway85 CID has created a safer environment for both business owners and patrons. “People want to dine, shop and walk around their business districts without worrying about safety. That’s why we’ve made significant investments in technology that ensures our business corridors are safe for everyone,” she emphasized.
In terms of infrastructure, Hendrickson has been instrumental in advancing transit solutions that directly impact the business community. The recent rollout of the microtransit pilot program in the Gateway85-Norcross area is a key example of how transportation improvements are fostering economic growth. “This microtransit initiative is a game-changer for our workforce and businesses,” Hendrickson said. “We’re ensuring that employees can access their workplaces efficiently, which directly supports business success in the county.”
Looking ahead, Hendrickson remains focused on the County’s future growth. In addition to transit expansion, she is spearheading efforts to address housing affordability—an issue that directly impacts the county’s workforce. “Employers in the county want to know that their workers have affordable places to live. We’ve already taken significant steps to create more housing options for various income levels and we’re continuing to expand those efforts,” she explained.
Under Nicole Love Hendrickson’s leadership, Gwinnett County and Gateway85 CID have seen continued growth and success. Her commitment to fostering a strong business climate, supporting small and minority-owned businesses and improving community infrastructure is helping to shape the future of Gwinnett County as a thriving destination for businesses and residents.
