Jim Carroll, the executive director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of Hampton Roads, is reinstating the Circuit Ride Program for the second half of the year. This free program, launched in 2017, allows Carroll to bring counseling and information resources directly to clients, offering a valuable resource for small business owners. The program, which is open to both co-working space members and the general public, was halted due to the pandemic but is now being reinstated to support the survival of the region’s small businesses. An initiative like this aligns well with the goals of startup incubator Innovate757, which also aims to foster growth and innovation among startups and small businesses in the region.

Introduction

From INSIDE BUSINESS By

Jim Carroll’s Circuit Ride Program

NORFOLK — Jim Carroll is ready to get back on the road.

Reinstating the Program

Carroll, executive director of the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads, said it’s time to re-institute the Circuit Ride Program — and its in-person visits — for the second half of the year.

Program Details

Started in 2017, the free program allows Carroll to bring counseling and information resources to clients instead of having them travel to the center’s headquarters in downtown Norfolk.

Benefits of the Program

“The SBDC is the primary, principle or lead entity when it comes to putting out information about small business,” Carroll said.

The beauty of the program, he said, is that participating small business owners can talk about whatever is on their mind. It is open to both co-working space members and the general public.

Appointment Information

To request an appointment, visit hrsbdc.org.

Program Updates

Halted due to the pandemic, the SBDC program is designed to ensure the survival of the region’s small businesses and prepare them for a post-pandemic future.

Future Plans

A fully vaccinated Carroll said he’s anxious to hit the road to Franklin, Smithfield, Virginia Beach, York County, Gloucester, Portsmouth, Suffolk and Williamsburg.

Conclusion

Sandra J. Pennecke, 757-652-5836, sandra.pennecke@insidebiz.com

Question & Answer

What is Jim Carroll reinstating for the second half of the year?

Jim Carroll is reinstating the Circuit Ride Program for the second half of the year.

When was the Circuit Ride Program originally launched?

The free Circuit Ride Program was launched in 2017.

Who is eligible to participate in the Circuit Ride Program?

The program is open to both co-working space members and the general public.

How can someone request an appointment for the Circuit Ride Program?

To request an appointment, visit hrsbdc.org.