Economic Development – Governor Youngkin and Mayor Gray tour new Hampton Logistics Center
Governor Youngkin and Mayor Gray tour new Hampton Logistics Center By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber Governor Glenn Youngkin joined City of Hampton Mayor Jimmy Gray and local leaders for a tour of the future Hampton Logistics Center, a $70 million industrial development featuring over 500,000 square feet of Class A space. The center, set to open this fall,…
Business Tips – Avoid These Small Business Launch Mistakes
Avoid These Small Business Launch Mistakes By SCORE Williamsburg The biggest mistake when launching a small business? Running before walking. Too many entrepreneurs jump in without a plan or proper research to confirm demand. Consider these common launch traps: Failing to validate your business model – Use tools like the Business Model Canvas (BMC) to test…
Innovation Ecosystem – Peninsula Leaders Visit “Most Innovative Square Mile” to Spark Regional Growth
Peninsula Leaders Visit “Most Innovative Square Mile” to Spark Regional Growth By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber The Virginia Peninsula Chamber recently led a group of 26 regional leaders to Kendall Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts-widely recognized as “the most innovative square mile on the planet.” The goal: to explore how Hampton Roads can build its own thriving innovation ecosystem by…
Business Tips – DOE Approves Jefferson Lab’s 12-Month Contract Extension
DOE Approves Jefferson Lab’s 12-Month Contract Extension By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber I know many of you in the business community are concerned about the future status of Jefferson Lab after a recent article in our local newspapers. Here is statement released by the Department of Energy which falls in line with what Governor Youngkin has recently stated. It should make all of you rest easier: “The Secretary…
Business Tips – Small Business Funding
Small Business Funding By SCORE Williamsburg Finding funding for your small business can feel overwhelming, but the right approach makes all the difference. SCORE mentors assist business owners in identifying funding options, from traditional bank loans to alternative financing like crowdfunding and grants. Key steps include researching market fit, understanding loan repayment capacity, and leveraging…
VPC & Habitat for Humanity Peninsula & Greater Williamsburg Partnership
VPC & Habitat for Humanity Peninsula & Greater Williamsburg Partnership By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber With great enthusiasm, Habitat for Humanity Peninsula & Greater Williamsburg (Habitat) announced a new House Partnership with the Virginia Peninsula Chamber (VPC) at their Raise the Roof Event on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This partnership follows the success of…
Economic Development – Hampton Roads Leaders Address Federal Policy Matters
Hampton Roads Leaders Address Federal Policy Matters By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber I have the privilege of representing the Virginia Peninsula Chamber membership and the surrounding business community in a group of regional leaders committed to making our region a better place to live, work and play. This group is committed to strengthening our…
Innovation Ecosystem – Regional Innovators Exchange: A Strategic Visit to Boston
Regional Innovators Exchange: A Strategic Visit to Boston By Bob McKenna, Virginia Peninsula Chamber The Virginia Peninsula Chamber, in collaboration with local leaders from economic development, higher education, federal labs, and private industry, is organizing the Regional Innovators Exchange to Boston from April 14th to 16th. This exclusive trip will connect participants with leaders from the dynamic innovation hub surrounding MIT in…
Business Tips – SCORE Tax Tip for Small Businesses
SCORE Tax Tip for Small Businesses By Roslyn Banks, SCORE Williamsburg Be sure to double check your 1099s before you prepare your return. If you receive a Form 1099 with an error, gather evidence to support the correction and ask the vendor to file a corrected form. If unsuccessful talking to the issuer, contact the IRS to inform them…
Business Tips – VA Enterprise Zone Program: How the Job Creation Grant Can Help Your Business Grow
VA Enterprise Zone Program: How the Job Creation Grant Can Help Your Business Grow By Shawn Middleton, CPA, PBMares The Virginia Enterprise Zone (VEZ) Program, a partnership between state and local governments, offers businesses a unique opportunity to expand their operations while reducing costs. One of the key incentives provided under this program is the Job Creation Grant (JCG), designed…