Metro Atlanta, Georgia – September 3, 2026 – Small manufacturers play a critical role in strengthening America’s industrial base, creating jobs and driving innovation, yet many face significant challenges when it comes to accessing the capital, technology, and resources needed to grow.
For Winton Machine Company, a family-owned manufacturer of automated tube and coax fabrication machinery in Suwanee, Georgia, access to those resources has been central to its nearly three-decade growth story.
Recently featured by the America’s Small Business Network (ASBN), Winton Machine Co-Founder and CEO Lisa Winton discussed how small manufacturers can leverage resources from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and other organizations to overcome growth barriers and invest in the future.
“Small manufacturers don’t have to navigate growth alone,” said Winton. “There is a tremendous community of organizations, programs, and people who want to help manufacturers succeed. The key is knowing where to find those resources and being willing to take advantage of them.”
From Garage Startup to Global Manufacturer
Winton Machine’s own history demonstrates what can happen when entrepreneurs combine opportunity with access to capital and support.
Lisa and her husband, George Winton, founded the company in 1997 after a customer asked them to build specialized fixtures. What began as a small operation eventually expanded into designing and manufacturing sophisticated automation equipment used by manufacturers worldwide.
An SBA 7(a) loan helped Winton Machine purchase equipment and move beyond its early startup operation, providing the capital needed to support the company’s continued development. The company has since expanded its capabilities and now designs and manufactures more than 100 types of machinery from its Georgia headquarters.
Today, Winton Machine serves customers in industries including aerospace, defense, HVAC, refrigeration, electronics, medical manufacturing and telecommunications. Its equipment is shipped internationally while continuing to be designed, engineered, and manufactured in Georgia.
Capital Can Help Manufacturers Invest in the Future
Manufacturing is inherently capital-intensive. Equipment, facilities, engineering talent, technology, and research and development require significant investment—often before the return is realized.
Recent SBA initiatives are designed to give small manufacturers greater access to the capital needed to modernize and expand. According to ASBN, the SBA has increased lending flexibility for manufacturers, including a 90% guarantee for qualifying manufacturing loans and allowing eligible businesses to combine 7(a) and 504 financing for up to $10 million.
For manufacturers considering equipment purchases, facility expansion or other strategic investments, understanding these programs can make a meaningful difference in determining what is financially possible.
Winton Machine has experienced that impact firsthand. In testimony before the House Ways and Means Committee, Lisa Winton described how investments in new systems, machinery, and research and development helped position the company for growth. The company invested $1.2 million in strengthening its operations, including $300,000 in R&D.
Automation as a Workforce Multiplier
Access to capital is only one part of the equation. As manufacturers contend with skilled-labor shortages and increasing production demands, Winton believes automation can help companies do more with the workforce they already have.
“Automation should strengthen people—not replace them,” said Winton.
Winton Machine develops automation solutions that allow skilled employees to spend less time on repetitive processes and more time on higher-value activities. The company continues to invest in robotics, proprietary software, 3D simulation, predictive maintenance, connectivity and other technologies designed to improve manufacturing efficiency and flexibility.
The approach reflects a broader opportunity for small manufacturers: technology can serve as a force multiplier, allowing companies to increase capacity, improve consistency and remain competitive without simply adding more labor.
Resources Beyond Financing
Winton also encourages manufacturers to look beyond traditional financing when planning for growth. Industry associations, Small Business Development Centers, workforce-development organizations and other SBA-supported resources can provide valuable guidance, training and connections.
“Manufacturers should tap into the communities around them,” Winton said. “There are people and organizations with experience who can help you understand what resources are available and how to use them.”
For Winton Machine, that philosophy remains central to its growth. Nearly 30 years after its founding, the company continues to invest in American manufacturing, advanced automation and the people who make innovation possible.
As small manufacturers look toward the next generation of growth, Winton’s experience demonstrates that the right combination of vision, capital, technology and support can turn opportunities into sustainable manufacturing success.
About America’s Small Business Network (ASBN)
America’s Small Business Network (ASBN) is a media and educational platform dedicated to supporting small business owners and entrepreneurs. Through articles, expert interviews, and video content, ASBN provides practical insights and information on topics ranging from finance and marketing to technology, leadership, and business strategy. Founded by entrepreneurs Jim and Bridget Fitzpatrick, ASBN was created to help small and midsize businesses access the knowledge, resources, and strategies they need to navigate challenges, pursue growth, and compete in today’s business environment.
About Winton Machine Company
Founded in 1997, Winton Machine Company designs and manufactures automated tube and coax fabrication machinery from its headquarters in Suwanee, Georgia. The company serves customers worldwide across industries including aerospace, HVAC, refrigeration, electronics, medical manufacturing, telecommunications, and defense. Winton Machine’s mission is to design and build equipment that adds value to its customers’ operations while providing exceptional technical support and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
