Entrepreneurship Resources by Topic

Navigating entrepreneurship requires the right knowledge, tools, and connections. Explore resources on funding, industry growth, succession, and more to build a thriving business.

Access to Capital

Access to capital includes financial, knowledge, and social capital—key resources for starting, growing, or sustaining a business through funding, expertise, and networks. Financial capital options include equity and debt financing, venture capital, angel investments, grants, loans, and crowdfunding.
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Building & Site Selection

Finding the ideal location for your business may involve site selection, zoning laws, commercial real estate, and securing the right business space. To achieve this, you may want to contact your local economic developer and local realtors. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) maintains the most comprehensive database of available sites and buildings in Virginia. Explore Sites & Buildings >

Business Licensing & Permits

Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations by learning about necessary business licenses, permits, and industry-specific requirements.
Learn more at Virginia Business One Stop >

Chambers of Commerce

A Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that fosters economic growth through networking, advocacy, and resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
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Entrepreneurship by Acquisition

Entrepreneurship by Acquisition (ETA) is a strategy where entrepreneurs buy and scale an existing company instead of launching a new business from the ground up.
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Government Contracting

Government contracting process of securing contracts with federal, state, or local government agencies to provide products or services.
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Succession Planning

Succession planning is a strategic approach to transitioning business ownership or leadership to ensure long-term stability and growth.
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Traded Sector and Target Industries

Traded sector businesses are companies that produce goods or services primarily for sale outside their local region, bringing revenue into their home area. A target industry is a specific industry or sector that is identified as having the potential to generate significant returns on investment, by bringing more jobs and economic growth to a community, region, or state. 
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Do you want help with finding, navigating, and accessing resources to start, grow, or scale your business?