Startup Support
Turning Vision into Thriving Enterprises
The Lynchburg region is a vibrant hub for small businesses and startups, offering a low-risk and affordable entry point for anyone with a fresh idea. The Small Business Development Center – Lynchburg Region and the Center for Entrepreneurship provide essential resources, guidance, funding for startups, and support to budding entrepreneurs, while several other leadership programs, business incubators, and entrepreneurial bootcamps create a nurturing environment for knowledge sharing, skill development, and growth.
Small Business Grant Program Offered Quarterly in Campbell County
Campbell County Economic DevelopmentFree Services that Put Entrepreneurship Within Reach
Ever wonder how to turn your business idea into a reality? The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Lynchburg Region is here to help. Offering free, confidential business advising and educational services, the SBDC is open to all small businesses in the region. From Start Smart, a program designed to answer the most basic questions for newcomers, to specialized training in industries like healthcare and early childhood education, the center has something for everyone.
Led by experienced professionals who have owned their own small businesses, the SBDC provides invaluable insights into state and federal programs that can help your business grow. At the SBDC – Lynchburg Region, entrepreneurs can receive guidance on various aspects of business development:
- Business plan development
- Organizational development
- Branding
- Marketing
- Financing
- Access to capital
- Planning
- Expansion
- Government contracting
Comprehensive Support for Business Growth
The Lynchburg Business Development Centre, Inc. has been a cornerstone for small business growth in the Lynchburg Virginia region since 1989. The LBDC offers professional facilities including conference rooms, high-speed internet, mail services, and administrative support. This well-equipped space provides a nurturing environment for both existing and prospective business owners, helping them to focus on growth and innovation.
The LBDC also provides direct financing to small business owners through various loan programs and gap financing. Over the years, it has provided $5.6 million in direct loans, contributing to the creation of more than 1,000 new jobs in the Lynchburg region. The Centre’s comprehensive support system makes it an invaluable resource for fostering business development and economic growth in the area.
C.ENTR Increases the Region’s Access to Resources & Capital
The Lynchburg Center for Entrepreneurship (C.ENTR) is a vibrant hub for creative thinking and collaboration. In 2023, the center received a $240,000 grant from Go Virginia Region 2 to offer free and confidential advising and coaching from seasoned professionals in the startup community. Located within the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, the center occupies 3,000 square feet of space specifically designed to support and nurture the entrepreneurial spirit.
This centralized, brick-and-mortar location serves as a gathering place for entrepreneurs to receive mentorship, utilize computers and other technology, and find funding for startups. One standout resource is the 140 Fund, a revolving loan fund that offers low-interest loans to help startups and small businesses grow. The Lynchburg Center for Entrepreneurship is dedicated to building a strong, innovative community by providing the tools and support entrepreneurs need to succeed, whether you’re seeking to build a tech startup or financial advising business.
The Lynchburg Region & Startup Businesses
Hear from local small business owners about what makes the Lynchburg region one of the greatest places for entrepreneurs — regardless of experience or funding.
Leading Stories in Lynchburg
Get the latest on recent business expansions, community initiatives, and developments affecting the business community in the Lynchburg region.
Source4 to expand operations in Bedford County investing $4.5 million and creating 30 jobs
The Bedford County Office of Economic Development, in partnership with the Economic Development Authority (EDA), is pleased to announce that Source4, an integrated business and marketing solutions provider, will invest more than $4.5 million and add 30 new jobs in Bedford County over the next five years. “We have enjoyed our experience in Bedford County […]
Huge Win for CVTC Master Redevelopment Plan
On June 8, the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance held a press conference at the former Central Virginia Training Center, featuring Senator Steve Newman, to announce the General Assembly has included $25 million in the state budget to fully defease all outstanding bonds associated with CVTC. Additional speakers at the event included Megan Lucas, CEO and […]
Lynchburg EDA selected to receive $500K from EPA for brownfield redevelopment
Lynchburg’s Economic Development Authority again has been selected to receive $500,000 in assessment grants from the Environmental Protection Agency to continue to assist businesses and property owners to identify, assess and begin redevelopment of brownfields. According to a news release, funding dedicated to the assessment of sites potentially affected by hazardous substances and petroleum will […]
Tools & Resources
Grow & Expand
Business retention is a key component of the Lynchburg region’s identity, and we support it with key partnerships that drive results.
Trade Assistance
The Alliance can connect your company to the right people and resources for a successful international trade operation.
Taxes & Incentives
Virginia is a top-ranked state for incentives, with one of the lowest corporate income taxes in the nation.
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