RISE THRIVE Accelerator

THRIVE: Training, Hands-on Support, Resources, Insights, Value, and Execution

RISE (Regional Investment in Startups & Entrepreneurs) is an entrepreneur support and ecosystem building initiative designed to strengthen rural entrepreneurship across Southern Virginia. Coming in 2026, RISE THRIVE reflects six key support areas: Training, Hands-on Support, Resources, Insights, Value, and Execution. The model enhances access to social, knowledge, and financial capital.

The dual focus on training entrepreneurs in the Accelerator while engaging professional services firms in the Preferred Provider Network enables the the RISE THRIVE program to have an exponential impact on communities in the RISE region.

Join the RISE THRIVE Accelerator

Startups & Entrepreneurs are invited to join the RISE THRIVE Accelerator

Entrepreneurs in the RISE THRIVE Accelerator will receive direct entrepreneur support services and cost-sharing for accessing professional services through a 12-month, cohort-based virtual program. Delivered through a network of regional hubs, the RISE THRIVE Accelerator will offer training, mentorship, and access to resources to increase access to social, knowledge, and financial capital.

Entrepreneurs will receive financial support in the form of grants to access the RISE Preferred Provider Network for professional assistance with marketing, financial, accounting, IT, AI, legal, and other critical business services. Entrepreneurs who complete the Accelerator will be eligible for reimbursement of up to 50% of eligible service costs.

Join the Preferred Provider Network

Professional services firms are invited to join the RISE Preferred Provider Network.

Professional services firms with expertise in marketing, financial management, accounting, IT, legal, and other critical business-to-business (B2B) services will receive direct referrals for potential customers who are participants in the RISE THRIVE Accelerator.

Professional services firms, financing providers, and other corporate entities are also invited to support the RISE THRIVE program by becoming a sponsor or partner and making monetary and/or in-kind contributions to the program.