Events for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners
Grow your network and build your business
RISE Collaborative meetups are open to all entrepreneurs, business owners, and business resource providers in Southern and South Central Virginia. Please pre-register so we know you plan to attend.

Multiple Dates and Locations
PUMP: Pull Up Mentoring Program
PUMP (Pull Up Mentor Program) is a free, drop-in event designed to connect entrepreneurs with valuable resources to support your business journey. Hosted by RISE Navigators Laura Coleman and Fritz Ampascher at the SOVA Innovation Hub in Halifax County and Muddy Paws Winery in Buckingham county, and by RISE Navigator Le’Bryan Patterson at the P&HCC Dalton Idea Center in Martinsville and the P&HCC Stuart Site in Patrick County. Registration is requested, but not required. Just Pull Up!

Wednesday, February 12, 2025 at the SOVA Innovation Hub
1-on-1 Consulting with the Crater APEX Accelerator
Southern Virginia businesses interested in government contracting have a new opportunity close to home. The Crater APEX Accelerator is offering free, 1-on-1 consulting sessions at the SOVA Innovation Hub, located at 715 Wilborn Avenue, South Boston, VA. The goal of this service is to make it easier than ever for Southern Virginia businesses to access expert guidance on navigating the government contracting process. Learn More >

Wednesday, February 19, 2025 at the SOVA Innovation Hub
Introduction to Federal Government Contracting with Crater APEX Accelerator
Discover how to sell your products or services to U.S. federal agencies through federal government contracting, a vast marketplace spanning industries such as technology, construction, research, and consulting. This session provides a comprehensive overview of the federal acquisition process, including key regulations like the Federal Acquisition Regulations (FARS), SAM.gov registration, the contracting process, and opportunities specifically for small businesses. Whether you’re new to government contracting or looking to expand your business, this event will equip you with the foundational knowledge needed to navigate the process and tap into federal business opportunities.

Thursday, February 20, 2025 – 12:00pm-1:00pm on Zoom
RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup
The RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup is a virtual gathering of diverse, creative, and inclusive entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders from across Southern Virginia. During each monthly meeting, we share updates from local and regional entrepreneurs support organizations. Entrepreneurs of all types are welcome to attend! Learn more about the RISE Grapevine Entrepreneur Network HERE.
Speaker: Karice Luck-Brimmer, Founder of Our History Matters

Wednesday, March 12, 2025 at the SOVA Innovation Hub
1-on-1 Consulting with the Crater APEX Accelerator
Southern Virginia businesses interested in government contracting have a new opportunity close to home. The Crater APEX Accelerator is offering free, 1-on-1 consulting sessions at the SOVA Innovation Hub, located at 715 Wilborn Avenue, South Boston, VA. The goal of this service is to make it easier than ever for Southern Virginia businesses to access expert guidance on navigating the government contracting process. Learn More >