RISE and RAMP Launch Program to Help Agricultural, Forestry, and Rural Innovators Reach the Marketplace

New RAMP Up accelerator program will help innovators turn ideas into products, businesses, and real-world solutions

SOUTH BOSTON, VA – July 9, 2026 – RISE (Regional Investment in Startups and Entrepreneurs) and RAMP (Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program) today announced RAMP Up, a new commercialization accelerator program for agricultural, forestry, and rural innovators in Southern Virginia. The program is funded by the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission and VIPC (Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation), and combines RISE’s regional network, an initiative of the SOVA Innovation Hub, with RAMP’s decade of commercialization experience through the Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance (RBIA).

The program welcomes startups, existing businesses, researchers, and innovators working in agriculture, forestry, food systems, animal sciences, natural resources, advanced manufacturing, automation, sustainability, rural technology, and related industries.

Over eight weeks, participants will work with experienced entrepreneurs, researchers, and industry experts to validate customer needs, evaluate market opportunities, refine business models, and develop commercialization strategies. There is no cost to participate in RAMP Up.

Each team that successfully completes the program will be eligible for grants up to $10,000 to support commercialization activities such as product development, pilot projects, customer validation, or other approved business growth expenses. These are non-dilutive grants, meaning that the company does not give up any ownership in exchange for this funding.

Graduates will also be connected to additional entrepreneurship and accelerator opportunities through RAMP, RISE, and other regional partners based on their stage of growth.

Program sessions will be hosted on eight consecutive Mondays, 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, September 21 through November 9, with seven in-person sessions at the SOVA Innovation Hub in South Boston, Virginia and one virtual session.

Applicants must be existing Virginia businesses or committed to establishing business operations in Virginia. To be eligible, businesses must be located in one of the following localities:

• Cities: Covington, Danville, Emporia, Lynchburg, Martinsville, Radford, Roanoke, and Salem
• Counties: Alleghany, Amelia, Amherst, Appomattox, Bedford, Botetourt, Brunswick, Buckingham, Campbell, Charlotte, Craig, Cumberland, Dinwiddie, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Greensville, Halifax, Henry, Lunenburg, Mecklenburg, Montgomery, Nottoway, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Prince Edward, Pulaski, Roanoke, and Sussex.

Businesses located within incorporated towns in these eligible counties are also welcome to apply.

This partnership will help more innovators move from concept to company while strengthening Southern Virginia’s innovation economy.

“Southern Virginia has a long history of innovation rooted in agriculture, forestry, manufacturing, and rural enterprise,” said Lauren Mathena, Director of Economic Development and Community Engagement for the SOVA Innovation Hub and Program Director for RISE. “Through this partnership with RAMP, we are creating new opportunities for innovators to connect with experts, test ideas, and explore pathways to bring new products and solutions to market. We want to help great ideas become businesses, jobs, and economic opportunities for our region.”

“Many innovations never reach the marketplace because innovators lack access to commercialization support,” said Chip Bobbert, Director of Innovation at the Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance, the entity that operates RAMP. “RAMP Up is designed to bridge that gap by helping innovators understand customers, markets, partnerships, and commercialization pathways before they enter a full accelerator program.”

RISE and RAMP thank the Virginia Tobacco Region Revitalization Commission, VIPC, and regional partners for their continued support of entrepreneurship and innovation across Southern Virginia.

Applications for the inaugural Fall 2026 cohort are open now with a deadline of September 3, 2026.

For more information and to apply, visit: https://sovarise.com/ramp-up

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Media Contacts

• RAMP and RBIA: Ada Cuadrado-Medina, ada.cuadrado-medina@rbtc.tech
• RISE and SOVA Innovation Hub: Liz Smith, liz.smith@sovainnovationhub.com

About RISE

RISE (Regional Investment in Startups and Entrepreneurs) is a regional entrepreneurship initiative serving Southern Virginia and Franklin County. Managed by the SOVA Innovation Hub in partnership with Longwood’s Small Business Development Center and regional ecosystem partners, RISE helps entrepreneurs connect with resources, training, mentors, and opportunities to start and grow businesses.

About RAMP

RAMP (Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program), operated by the Roanoke Blacksburg Innovation Alliance (RBIA), helps entrepreneurs launch and grow innovative companies through mentorship, commercialization support, accelerator programming, and connections to customers, investors, and industry partners.

July is a great time to pause, reflect, and refocus on your business goals for the second half of the year. Across Southern Virginia, entrepreneurs are building momentum, exploring new opportunities, and finding innovative ways to grow and adapt. Whether you’re launching a new venture or strengthening an existing business, investing in your knowledge, network, and strategy can help position you for long-term success.

This month, RISE continues to offer opportunities to learn, connect, and grow through workshops, networking events, and business resources designed to support entrepreneurs at every stage. Wherever you are on your journey, we’re here to help you take the next step forward.

Startup Playbook: Idea to Income

Tuesday, July 14, 2026 | 5:30pm – 6:30pm | Dalton Idea Center
Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 12:00pm – 1:00pm | Dalton Idea Center

Have a business idea but not sure what comes next? The Startup Playbook: Idea to Income helps aspiring entrepreneurs turn ideas into a clear, actionable path toward business ownership. Through an interactive workshop and optional one-on-one follow-up support, participants will refine their business concept, explore key startup fundamentals, and connect with resources available across Southern Virginia. Whether you’re starting from scratch or building on an early idea, this series is designed to help you move forward with confidence.

RISE Grapevine Virtual Meetup for Entrepreneurs

Thursday, July 16 , 2026 | 12pm-1pm | Zoom

The RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup brings together entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders from across Southern Virginia for connection and resource sharing. 

Mecklenburg Entrepreneur Meetup

Thursday, July 24, 2026 | 5:00pm – 6:30pm | TBD

Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, farmers, and aspiring entrepreneurs at the Mecklenburg Entrepreneur Meetup. Hosted by RISE and Marilynn Cabiness, these informal gatherings provide an opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and learn about local and regional resources that support business growth. Whether you’re just getting started or have been in business for years, you’re invited to join the conversation. No registration is required.

Brunswick Entrepreneur Meetups

Friday, July 24, 2026 | 5:00pm – 6:30pm | The Story Cafe

Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, farmers, and aspiring entrepreneurs at the Brunswick Entrepreneur Meetup. Hosted by RISE and Marilynn Cabiness, these informal gatherings provide an opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and learn about local and regional resources that support business growth. Whether you’re launching a new venture, growing an existing business, or simply looking to expand your network, you’re invited to join the conversation. No registration is required. Stop by, grab a coffee or a bite to eat from The Story Cafe, and connect with others in the local business community.

RISE Summit

Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 9:00am – 4:30pm | The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Upcoming Events Hosted by State Agencies

Intro to Selling to Virginia – Workshop #1

Wednesday, July 1, 2026 and July 15, 2026| 10am – 11:30am | Online

This session will provide a high level overview of the Commonwealth’s purchasing process, including purchasing policies that affect how buyers use the eVA system to “shop” and the eVA tools used by our buying community. You’ll also get a guided tour of the eVA website as we discuss the publicly accessible tools & resources every business should know about if they’re interested in selling to Virginia. And if you’re not already an eVA registered Vendor, you’ll learn how to get signed-up, as well as where to go for help at any time!

Hosted by the eVA outreach team with the Virginia Division Small Business & Supplier Diversity.

Generating Leads Using eVA – Workshop #2

Wednesday, July 8, 2026 and July 22, 2026| 10am – 12pm | Online

This advanced workshop is the 2nd in the eVA series & focuses on lead generation. This hands-on session explores the public transparency tools available on the eVA website, including the Report & Resource Center and the new “power” search. You’ll learn how to identify buyers who are buying what you sell, determine prices being paid for goods/services, identify who’s getting business (is it you or your competition). We’ll also walk through the Virginia Business Opportunities public posting page – featuring collaboration tools like B2B Connect & VIBE – as we discuss how & when eVA builds a lead list for you and why rating your leads is important.

Hosted by the eVA outreach team with the Virginia Division Small Business & Supplier Diversity.

Upcoming Events Hosted by the Longwood Small Business Development Center &  Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) 

How to Manage your WordPress Website

Tuesday, July 7, 2026 |  12pm – 1:30pm   |   Online

Do you want to create or improve your business website? This workshop will introduce the basics of WordPress and Elementor, helping participants learn how to build, update, and manage a professional website, including pages, media, plugins, social media links, and more.

Protecting Customer Information in a Digital Business

Thursday, July 23, 2026 |  12:30pm – 1:30pm   |   Online

Your business data is one of your most valuable assets and one of the biggest targets for cybercriminals. A cybersecurity breach can disrupt operations, damage customer trust, and create costly legal and financial consequences. Learn practical steps to protect your business, reduce risk, and strengthen your cybersecurity readiness before

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. 

June is a season for growth, fresh ideas, and taking the next step. Across Southern Virginia, entrepreneurs are launching businesses, exploring new opportunities, and building momentum for the future. Whether you are just getting started or looking to grow an existing business, now is a great time to invest in your skills, expand your network, and connect with resources that can help you move forward.

This month, we are excited to launch new opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs through The Startup Playbook: Idea to Income, continue bringing entrepreneurs together through networking and educational events, and share resources designed to help you turn ideas into action. Wherever you are on your entrepreneurial journey, RISE is here to help you connect, learn, and grow.

Let’s Talk Business – Brunswick County

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 5:30pm-7:30pm | Brunswick County Conference Center

Startup Playbook: Idea to Income

Tuesday, June 9, 2026 | 5:30pm – 6:30pm | SOVA Innovation Hub
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 | 12:00pm – 1:00pm | SOVA Innovatin Hub

Have a business idea but not sure what comes next? The Startup Playbook: Idea to Income helps aspiring entrepreneurs turn ideas into a clear, actionable path toward business ownership. Through an interactive workshop and optional one-on-one follow-up support, participants will refine their business concept, explore key startup fundamentals, and connect with resources available across Southern Virginia. Whether you’re starting from scratch or building on an early idea, this series is designed to help you move forward with confidence.

Intro to Federal Government Contracting 

Wednesday, June 17, 2026 | 12:00pm – 1:30pm | SOVA Innovation Hub

RISE Grapevine Virtual Meetup for Entrepreneurs

Thursday, June 18, 2026 | 12pm-1pm | Zoom

The RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup brings together entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders from across Southern Virginia for connection and resource sharing. 

Mecklenburg Entrepreneur Meetup

Thursday, June 25, 2026 | 5:00pm – 6:30pm | R.T. Arnold Public Library

Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, farmers, and aspiring entrepreneurs at the Mecklenburg Entrepreneur Meetup. Hosted by RISE and Marilynn Cabiness, these informal gatherings provide an opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and learn about local and regional resources that support business growth. Whether you’re just getting started or have been in business for years, you’re invited to join the conversation. No registration is required.

Brunswick Entrepreneur Meetups

Friday, June 26, 2026 | 5:00pm – 6:30pm | The Story Cafe

Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, farmers, and aspiring entrepreneurs at the Brunswick Entrepreneur Meetup. Hosted by RISE and Marilynn Cabiness, these informal gatherings provide an opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, and learn about local and regional resources that support business growth. Whether you’re launching a new venture, growing an existing business, or simply looking to expand your network, you’re invited to join the conversation. No registration is required. Stop by, grab a coffee or a bite to eat from The Story Cafe, and connect with others in the local business community.

RISE Summit

Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 9:00am – 4:30pm | The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Upcoming Events Hosted by State Agencies

Generating Leads Using eVA – Workshop #2

Wednesday, June 2 and June 17, 2026 | 10am – 12pm | Online

This advanced workshop is the 2nd in the eVA series & focuses on lead generation. This hands-on session explores the public transparency tools available on the eVA website, including the Report & Resource Center and the new “power” search. You’ll learn how to identify buyers who are buying what you sell, determine prices being paid for goods/services, identify who’s getting business (is it you or your competition). We’ll also walk through the Virginia Business Opportunities public posting page – featuring collaboration tools like B2B Connect & VIBE – as we discuss how & when eVA builds a lead list for you and why rating your leads is important.

Hosted by the eVA outreach team with the Virginia Division Small Business & Supplier Diversity.

Intro to Selling to Virginia – Workshop #1

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 | 10am – 11:30am | Online

This session will provide a high level overview of the Commonwealth’s purchasing process, including purchasing policies that affect how buyers use the eVA system to “shop” and the eVA tools used by our buying community. You’ll also get a guided tour of the eVA website as we discuss the publicly accessible tools & resources every business should know about if they’re interested in selling to Virginia. And if you’re not already an eVA registered Vendor, you’ll learn how to get signed-up, as well as where to go for help at any time!

Hosted by the eVA outreach team with the Virginia Division Small Business & Supplier Diversity.

Upcoming Events Hosted by the Longwood Small Business Development Center &  Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) 

Small Business Tax Fundamentals: What You Must File (and When)

Wednesday, June 3, 2026 |  12pm – 1:00pm   |   Online

Understanding your tax and compliance responsibilities is an important part of running a successful business. Join us for this practical workshop designed to help entrepreneurs and small business owners better understand local, state, and federal tax requirements, licensing obligations, and common compliance issues. Participants will gain valuable insights, have the opportunity to ask general questions, and leave with a clearer understanding of how to manage their tax responsibilities with confidence.

Understanding Paid Ads: Strategy, Setup, & Results

Wednesday, June 10, 2026 |  12pm – 1:00pm   |   Online

Want to get more from your marketing budget? This workshop will cover the fundamentals of effective advertising, including selecting the right platforms, reaching your target audience, setting realistic budgets, and measuring results. Whether you’re new to paid advertising or looking to improve your current approach, you’ll leave with practical strategies to help attract customers and grow your business.

Virignia Tourism Corporation Grant Programs

Wednesday, June 17, 2026 |  12pm – 1:00pm   |   Online

Interested in promoting your tourism-related business with grant funding? Join the Virginia Tourism Corporation Grants Team for a virtual session focused on the Microbusiness Marketing Leverage Program, a funding opportunity for eligible tourism-oriented small businesses such as retailers, restaurants, lodging providers, and attractions. Participants will learn about program requirements, eligibility, matching fund expectations, application timelines, and how to prepare a competitive application before the grant opens in June.

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. 

May is a time to celebrate the entrepreneurs and small business owners who keep Southern Virginia growing. In honor of National Small Business Month, we’re recognizing the creativity, resilience, and hard work of those building businesses across our region. It’s also a reminder that growth requires balance. Taking time for self-care, reflection, and working on your business, not just in it, can be just as important as the day-to-day hustle. This month’s programs and events are designed to help you strengthen your skills, expand your network, and move forward with confidence.

RISE Office Hours

Multiple Dates

Have an idea or working to grow your business but not sure what the next step should be? Stop by to connect with a RISE Navigator, ask questions, and get linked to resources and partners that can help move your business forward. All stages are welcome, from early ideas to established businesses.

Friday, May 8, 2026 | 8am-12pm | P&HCC Dalton IDEA Center
Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 9am-12pm | P&HCC Stuart Site
Thursday, May 28, 2026 | 4pm-8pm | SOVA Innovation Hub

From Pilot to Progress: EVOLVE Networking Event 

Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 5:30pm-7pm | SOVA Innovation Hub

Let’s Talk Business – Brunswick County

Thursday, May 14, 2026 | 5:30pm-7:30pm | Brunswick County Conference Center

Smartphone Video Advertising Part 2

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 | 11:00am – 1:00pm | SOVA Innovation Hub

RISE Grapevine Virtual Meetup for Entrepreneurs

Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 12pm-1pm | SOVA Innovation Hub

The RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup brings together entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders from across Southern Virginia for connection and resource sharing. The May session will focus on self-care.

RISE Summit

Thursday, August 27, 2026 | 8am-5:30pm | The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research

Upcoming Events Hosted by State Agencies

Generating Leads Using eVA – Workshop #2

Wednesday, May 6 and May 20, 2026 | 10am – 12pm | Online

This advanced workshop is the 2nd in the eVA series & focuses on lead generation. This hands-on session explores the public transparency tools available on the eVA website, including the Report & Resource Center and the new “power” search. You’ll learn how to identify buyers who are buying what you sell, determine prices being paid for goods/services, identify who’s getting business (is it you or your competition). We’ll also walk through the Virginia Business Opportunities public posting page – featuring collaboration tools like B2B Connect & VIBE – as we discuss how & when eVA builds a lead list for you and why rating your leads is important.

Hosted by the eVA outreach team with the Virginia Division Small Business & Supplier Diversity.

Intro to Selling to Virginia – Workshop #1

Wednesday, May 13 and May 27, 2026 | 10am – 11:30am | Online

This session will provide a high level overview of the Commonwealth’s purchasing process, including purchasing policies that affect how buyers use the eVA system to “shop” and the eVA tools used by our buying community. You’ll also get a guided tour of the eVA website as we discuss the publicly accessible tools & resources every business should know about if they’re interested in selling to Virginia. And if you’re not already an eVA registered Vendor, you’ll learn how to get signed-up, as well as where to go for help at any time!

Hosted by the eVA outreach team with the Virginia Division Small Business & Supplier Diversity.

Upcoming Events Hosted by the Longwood Small Business Development Center &  Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) 

Keeping up with Digital Marketing – A’s for Your Q’s – ChatGPT

Tuesday, May 5, 2026  |  12pm – 1:30pm   |   Online

Curious about AI and ChatGPT? Join Cameron Nelson for an updated session exploring practical AI tools and how small businesses can use them to streamline customer service and marketing, with the first half focused on key insights and the second half dedicated to Q&A.

Startup Strategies

Thursday, May 21, 2026 | 10:30am – 12pm | Online

This session explores key motivations for entrepreneurship while helping participants assess their readiness to start or grow a business. Topics include evaluating entrepreneurial strengths, marketing strategies, financial resources, legal structures, business planning tips, and basic cybersecurity considerations. Participants will leave with a clearer strategy for building a strong foundation for long-term entrepreneurial success.

Hosted by the Longwood 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. 

Financial Literacy for Entrepreneurs, Access to Capital, and Building Business Readiness

At the April RISE Grapevine Virtual Meetup for Entrepreneurs, business owners and ecosystem partners from across Southern Virginia gathered for an important conversation about one of the most common challenges entrepreneurs face: money.

The monthly Grapevine meetup continues to create space for entrepreneurs to learn, connect, and grow together. This month’s featured topic was financial literacy for entrepreneurs, led by DaShanna Carr of the Community Investment Collaborative (CIC).

And if there was one message that stood out, it was this: understanding your numbers matters.

Three Financial Truths Every Entrepreneur Should Know

DaShanna Carr, Loan Officer with CIC, delivered a practical and engaging presentation centered on three key financial truths for entrepreneurs.

Track Your Money

You cannot improve what you are not tracking.

Whether it is a spreadsheet, accounting software, AI tools, or even a notebook, entrepreneurs need a simple system to track:

What is coming in
What is going out
What is left

Deshana encouraged business owners not to overcomplicate it. Start where you are and build consistency.

Lending Is About Readiness, Not Just Need

One of the strongest insights from the session was this:

Lenders do not fund need. They fund readiness.

Many entrepreneurs know they need money to grow, but before funding comes clarity:

• Are the numbers accurate?
• Is there a repayment plan?
• Does the business model make sense?
• Can the loan strengthen the business rather than create more strain?

This perspective helped reframe lending as preparation, not desperation.

How CIC Supports Entrepreneurs in Southern Virginia

DaShanna also shared how the Community Investment Collaborative works differently than traditional lenders. CIC serves entrepreneurs who may not yet be bank-ready but have viable businesses and growth potential.

CIC Loan Options Include:

• Microloans from $5,000 to $50,000
• Up to $100,000 for established businesses
• Flexible terms and interest rates
• Relationship-based underwriting
• Education and coaching support

CIC also offers:

• Credit counseling
• Financial management support
• Entrepreneur workshops
• Office hours
• Referrals to additional resources

The message was clear: if you are not ready today, there are still pathways forward.

Ecosystem updates and events you should know about

One of the best parts of RISE Grapevine is hearing what is happening across Southern Virginia and beyond. Here are a few highlights shared during announcements:

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Applying Project Management for Founders, Entrepreneurs, and Businesses

April 22, April 29, May 13 and May 20, 2026
Zoom | 12:00 – 1:30pm
The RISE Applying Project Management Workshop Series is a four-part virtual training for founders, entrepreneurs, and businesses focused on building structure, clarity, and execution. Led by Nikouri Brown of Creative PM Solutions, sessions provide practical tools to translate ideas into plans, manage risk and resources, and track progress for growth.
https://sovarise.com/training/applying-project-management/

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Let’s Talk Business – Brunswick County

Join Brunswick County Economic Development and RISE for a conversation about the entrepreneurial ecosystem and supporting business growth. Free to attend. Light refreshments provided.
Register here: https://sovarise.com/brunswick-business-resources/lets-talk-business/https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Z1PqB3vkS36bqUOrzqofmA#/registrationhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/vYfp4QAgQKKXL-cmSLc33w#/

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Save the date: Next Grapevine

Our next RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup is Thursday, May 21, 2026, featuring a discussion on self-care
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Z1PqB3vkS36bqUOrzqofmA#/registrationhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/vYfp4QAgQKKXL-cmSLc33w#/

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Southern Virginia Entrepreneur Workshop: Spring Cohort and Fall Applications

CIC also shared updates on its current Southern Virginia Entrepreneur Workshop cohort, plus a heads-up that the Fall 2026 application window opens May 4 through July 3.
https://cicville.org/southern-virginia-entrepreneur-workshop/

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Save the date: RISE Summit 2026

The RISE Summit is scheduled for October 16, 2026. Bring someone with you. This is an ecosystem event built for connection, learning, and next-step momentum.
Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-2026-rise-summit-innovation-summit-tickets-1949316501129?aff=oddtdtcreator

Watch the Bottom Line film trailer, offering a first look at a short narrative film exploring leadership, business growth, and the decisions behind building a business.

More than a Film

Bottom Line is part of a broader storytelling effort to strengthen the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem across Southern Virginia.

In addition to the film itself, this work includes film screenings and community conversations designed to create space for reflection, discussion, and connection among entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community stakeholders.

The film also anchors Season 3 of Entrepreneurship on the RISE, a podcast featuring conversations with entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders across the region.

Together, these efforts highlight shared experiences, practical insights, and new ways of thinking about business growth and sustainability.

Perseverance, Passion, Love: Southern Virginia Women Redefining Childcare and Entrepreneurship

At the March Grapevine Virtual Meetup for Entrepreneurs, something really honest happened.

A group of women came together to talk about childcare, not just as a service, but as a business, a responsibility, and a calling.

What unfolded was a conversation about purpose, pressure, and the reality of building something that your entire community depends on.

Childcare is not just about watching kids. It determines wheather people  can go to work, keep a job, or grow a business.

Meet the Women Behind the Work

Three women led the conversation, each deeply connected to the families they serve:

Different paths brought them here, but their purpose is shared: creating safe, supportive environments where children can grow.

Childcare is Not Just a Business

Across Southern Virginia, childcare demand exceeds supply. Shannon stepped into that gap to help meet a growing need, not compete with others already doing the work.

Miss Pat’s journey began after seeing employees struggle to keep jobs without reliable childcare. Her response was to create something rooted in access, structure, and care.

Lakeisha added a broader perspective. The first 2,000 days of a child’s life are critical to development, making childcare foundational to:

• Early learning
• Social and emotional growth
• Long-term community well-being

Childcare providers are not just business owners. They are educators, workforce enablers, and a key part of the region’s economic infrastructure.

Without childcare, people cannot consistently show up to work or build businesses.

“It wasn’t about the money. It was about the children.”

-Miss Pat

Where Are the Gaps?

Two challenges clearly stood out.

Infant and toddler care is difficult to sustain due to staffing ratios, higher costs, and lower margins.

Rural access creates additional barriers, with long travel distances, limited providers, and fewer available seats.

In many areas, this results in what providers describe as a childcare desert.

The Reality Behind the Scenes

Running a childcare business requires more than passion.

Staffing means finding people who are engaged, trained, and committed, not just available.

Licensing requires constant navigation and strong relationships with regulators.

And at the center of it all is a financial tension:

“We can’t charge what we should, and parents can’t pay what it costs.” – Lakeisha

Families are stretched. Providers are constrained. Staff wages remain difficult to raise.

The system, as it stands, does not fully work.

Finding Ways Forward

Even with these challenges, providers are adapting.

Shannon is working to launch a nonprofit alongside her childcare center to expand support for families and other providers.

Lakeisha highlighted shared services models that help reduce costs and improve operations.

Across the board, providers are leveraging partnerships, grants, and creative approaches to keep moving forward.

What  Families Need Most

At its core, childcare is about trust.

Families are looking for safe, consistent environments where their children are cared for and supported.

Parents are asking more questions and expecting higher standards, and providers are stepping up to meet that responsibility.

“A child may not remember everything you teach them, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” -Miss Pat

Ecosystem updates and events you should know about

One of the best parts of RISE Grapevine is hearing what is happening across Southern Virginia and beyond. Here are a few highlights shared during announcements:

____________________

CIC Spring 2026 Business Resource Fair & Finance Your Business

Wednesday, March 25, 2026
Averett University North Campus | 3:00 – 7:00pm
CIC’s Spring 2026 Business Resource Fair offers entrepreneurs free, one-on-one consultations with experts in lending, bookkeeping, marketing, HR, and more. Hosted alongside the first Finance Your Business (FYB) session, the fair provides practical guidance, clear next steps, and strategies to support business growth. Registration is required to reserve appointments.
https://cicville.org/southern-virginia-resource-fair/

____________________

Applying Project Management for Founders, Entrepreneurs, and Businesses

April 22, April 29, May 13 and May 20, 2026
Zoom | 12:00 – 1:30pm
The RISE Applying Project Management Workshop Series is a four-part virtual training for founders, entrepreneurs, and businesses focused on building structure, clarity, and execution. Led by Nikouri Brown of Creative PM Solutions, sessions provide practical tools to translate ideas into plans, manage risk and resources, and track progress for growth.
https://sovarise.com/training/applying-project-management/

___________________

Save the date: Next Grapevine

Our next RISE Grapevine Monthly Virtual Meetup is Thursday, April 16, 2026, featuring a discussion on financial literacy.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/vYfp4QAgQKKXL-cmSLc33w#/

____________________

Southern Virginia Entrepreneur Workshop: Spring Cohort and Fall Applications

CIC also shared updates on its current Southern Virginia Entrepreneur Workshop cohort, plus a heads-up that the Fall 2026 application window opens May 4 through July 3.
https://cicville.org/southern-virginia-entrepreneur-workshop/

____________________

Save the date: RISE Summit 2026

The RISE Summit is scheduled for October 16, 2026. Bring someone with you. This is an ecosystem event built for connection, learning, and next-step momentum.
Get your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/fall-2026-rise-summit-innovation-summit-tickets-1949316501129?aff=oddtdtcreator

What I Help With

• Clarifying your business direction
• Connecting you to funding and partners
• Navigating state and local resources

Service Area

• Brunswick County >
• Mecklenburg County >

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About Marilynn Cabiness

Marilynn Cabiness is the Owner/CEO of Cabiness Coaching & Consulting Group, LLC, a professional services firm specializing in empowering leaders, transforming organizations, and impacting communities. With over 28 years of business and leadership expertise, Marilynn is on a mission to revive the heartbeat of business by helping entrepreneurs and executives shift from transactional success to transformative impact. Her passion lies in creating meaningful connections, fostering innovation, and inspiring leaders to lead with heart.

Marilynn completed the RISE Business Bootcamp in winter 2023. She began serving as a volunteer Discussion Leader and Work Group Leader for the CIC Entrepreneur Workshop powered by RISE in January 2025. She was a presenter at the RISE Summit in October 2025. In January 2026, she joined the RISE team as a RISE Navigator & Ecosystem Builder. In February 2026, she became a Certified RISE CO.STARTERS Facilitator.