Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center, in partnership with Selden Market, has announced the second session of the “Align: Small Business Series.” This initiative, starting on February 28, 2024, is part of the small business success journey in Hampton Roads, designed to empower local retailers with essential skills for business growth. The eight-week program, developed in collaboration with Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (SBDC), covers topics from e-commerce strategies to financial planning. The program aims for tangible outcomes, offering participants the chance to secure a storefront at Selden Market and contribute to Downtown Norfolk’s economic development. This initiative highlights the commitment of local organizations to nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering immediate success, and ensuring the longevity and sustainability of businesses in the Hampton Roads area.
Introduction
By Tim Ryan
Align: Small Business Series Launch
In a vibrant move towards bolstering the entrepreneurial spirit within Hampton Roads, Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center, in partnership with Selden Market, has announced the launch of the second session of the “Align: Small Business Series.” This initiative, aimed at empowering mom-and-pop retailers, is set to commence on February 28, 2024, at the NSU Innovation Center in Downtown Norfolk. This program is not just a series of workshops; it’s a beacon of hope and a testament to the commitment of local organizations toward nurturing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Hampton Roads.
Collaborative Effort
The eight-week program is a collaborative effort involving the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (SBDC). It is meticulously designed to cover a gamut of essential topics for small business success, ranging from e-commerce strategies and marketing to financial planning and raising capital. Including expert speakers and open discussions is poised to stimulate a nurturing environment for Norfolk’s small business community, encouraging growth and sustainability in both online and offline realms.
Sustainable Growth Strategies
What makes this series particularly appealing from an IHR perspective is its focus on creating sustainable growth strategies for brick-and-mortar businesses. With the digital landscape posing significant revenue-generation challenges, the Align series is a proactive approach to equipping local retailers with the tools necessary for digital and physical market success. Akosua Acheamponmaa, Director of the NSU Innovation Center, highlights the series’ commitment to empowering entrepreneurs to thrive in both realms, reflecting IHR’s aim to support businesses through the digital transition.
Comprehensive Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to impart knowledge and foster a hands-on learning experience. From assessing business models to financial planning and budgeting, participants are guided through the intricacies of managing a successful business in today’s competitive landscape. The program offers one-on-one mentoring sessions, group discussions, and interactive workshops, ensuring participants receive personalized and practical advice.
Tangible Outcomes
Furthermore, the opportunity for participants to receive a certificate of completion and potentially secure a storefront at Selden Market is a testament to the tangible outcomes the series aims to achieve. This initiative not only supports individual entrepreneurs but also contributes to Downtown Norfolk‘s vibrancy and economic development.
Supporting Small Businesses
Careyann Weinberg, director of Selden Market, emphasizes the program’s goal to see streets lined with successful small businesses, showcasing the local creativity and entrepreneurial spirit. This vision aligns with IHR’s goal of creating a supportive environment that fosters immediate success and ensures longevity and sustainability for businesses in the Hampton Roads area.
Building a Resilient Business Community
The Align: Small Business Series is a shining example of what can be achieved when organizations like Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center, Selden Market, and IHR collaborate to support the entrepreneurial community. It’s a clear signal that Hampton Roads is not just fostering innovation but actively investing in the future of its small businesses. This series is more than just a set of workshops; it’s a cornerstone for building a more resilient and prosperous business community in Hampton Roads, echoing IHR’s mission to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Here’s a link to the press release.
Question & Answer
What is the “Align: Small Business Series”?
The “Align: Small Business Series” is an initiative by Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center, in partnership with Selden Market, designed to empower local retailers with essential skills for business growth in Hampton Roads.
When does the second session of the “Align: Small Business Series” start?
The second session of the “Align: Small Business Series” is set to commence on February 28, 2024, at the NSU Innovation Center in Downtown Norfolk.
What topics are covered in the eight-week program?
The program covers topics ranging from e-commerce strategies and marketing to financial planning and raising capital, aiming to equip participants with the tools necessary for success in both online and offline realms.
What are the tangible outcomes participants can expect from the series?
Participants have the opportunity to receive a certificate of completion and potentially secure a storefront at Selden Market, contributing to Downtown Norfolk’s economic development and showcasing the local creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
How does the “Align: Small Business Series” support small businesses in Hampton Roads?
The series is a collaborative effort to nurture the entrepreneurial ecosystem, foster immediate success, and ensure the longevity and sustainability of businesses in the Hampton Roads area, creating a supportive environment for small businesses to thrive.
