December brings a renewed sense of focus as Southern Virginia’s entrepreneurs, small business owners, and innovators look ahead to the new year. It is a natural moment to set intentions, build momentum, and prepare for the opportunities that 2026 will bring. This month’s programs and events are designed to help you strengthen your skills, connect with others, and chart your next steps with clarity. Join us throughout December for workshops, learning sessions, and networking opportunities that support your growth and inspire fresh ideas for the year ahead.
Stand Out and Get Seen: A Marketing Kickstart for Entrepreneurs with Lettpress Communications
Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | 12pm-12:50pm | Zoom
Marketing doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and this interactive session will give entrepreneurs practical tools to define their brand, understand their audiences, and build visibility. Participants will learn how messaging, channels, visuals, and simple metrics work together while also getting a preview of how the upcoming RISE Ready, Set, Grow! Marketing Bootcamp expands these concepts into a full strategy.
1-on-1 Consulting on Government Contracting
Wednesday, December 10, 2025 | SOVA Innovation Hub
Government contracting opportunities are closer than you think. Southern Virginia businesses can get personalized, one-on-one support from Margaret Edmond of Virginia APEX Accelerator right here at the SOVA Innovation Hub in South Boston. Whether you’re just starting to explore government contracts or looking to strengthen your strategy, these free consulting sessions give you direct access to expert guidance without having to travel far. It’s a practical, accessible way to position your business for growth through state and federal contracting opportunities. Learn More >
PUMP: Pull Up Mentoring Program
Wednesday, December 19, 2025 | 9am-1pm | P&HCC Patrick County Fab Lab (Stuart, VA)
Hosted by the RISE Navigators, PUMP (Pull Up Mentor Program) is a free, drop-in event designed to connect entrepreneurs with valuable resources to support your business journey.
Whether you’re a business owner looking to grow, an aspiring entrepreneur with a new idea, or an innovator with a fresh product or service, PUMP (Pull Up Mentor Program) offers a chance to discuss your ideas with a member of the RISE Navigator team. The RISE Navigators are knowledgeable about local, regional, and national resources to support your business journey.
Don’t miss this chance to strengthen your entrepreneurial journey with personalized support.
Deadline to Apply for the Ready, Set, Grow! Marketing Bootcamp
Friday, December 19, 2025
Led by Letterpress Communications, this six-week online Marketing Bootcamp gives entrepreneurs the tools, structure, and accountability to turn their marketing ideas into action. Through weekly two-hour sessions, participants will learn how to clarify their brand, reach the right audiences, strengthen their visuals and messaging, and build a practical marketing plan they can implement immediately. Sessions run on Tuesdays from 6 to 8 pm, January 6 through February 10, 2026, and are delivered live on Zoom. Space is limited, and this program is designed for businesses operating in Southern Virginia
Upcoming Events Hosted by the Longwood Small Business Development Center & Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
Live and On-Demand Webinars
Multiple Dates | Online
No matter where you are in the state of Virginia, you can access virtual training programs and seminars on a variety of topics including business planning, marketing, management, legal considerations, accounting and bookkeeping, financial analysis, technology, access to capital, and business basics.
Hosted by the Virginia SBDCs (Small Business Development Centers)
Upcoming Chamber of Commerce Events
Chamber of Commerce Events
Multiple Dates | Various Locations
Many of Chamber of Commerce organizations host monthly networking events and ongoing training opportunities for businesses of all sizes and types.
Stay up to date on RISE Events
Find out what’s happening in the RISE Southern Virginia ecosystem on the RISE Meetups page.