The ALIGN Program Norfolk is returning to uplift local small businesses and entrepreneurs. This free series, organized by Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center (NSUIC) and Selden Market, provides eight weeks of expert-led training, educational resources, and one-on-one mentorship. Covering crucial areas such as business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management, the program firmly supports Norfolk’s retail community. Successful participants can also receive priority consideration for storefront opportunities at Selden Market, contributing to the thriving downtown culture. The program, now in its third year, will commence on March 3, 2025, with applications closing on February 16, 2025.
About ALIGN: Small Business Series
Downtown Norfolk is taking bold strides to uplift local small businesses with the return of the ALIGN: Small Business Series, a free program designed to empower entrepreneurs with expert-led training and prime opportunities. Organized by Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center (NSUIC) and Selden Market, this transformative initiative will kick off on March 3, 2025.
Program Details
Now in its third year, the ALIGN series has become a cornerstone of support for Norfolk’s retail community. This eight-week program offers participants exclusive access to educational resources and one-on-one mentorship from industry professionals, covering vital topics like business planning, marketing strategies, financial management, and more. Beyond knowledge, participants who complete the program receive priority consideration for storefront opportunities at Selden Market, Virginia’s first retail incubator and a vital hub of Norfolk’s downtown culture.
Testimonials and Collaborations
“Downtown Norfolk’s vibrant small business scene is the backbone of our neighborhood’s success,” says Careyann Weinberg, Director of Economic Vitality for Downtown Norfolk Council. “ALIGN ensures our ‘mom and pop’ retailers not only survive but thrive.”
This year’s program boasts a unique collaboration between the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center and Prodigy Capital Consulting Group. Together, they aim to deliver a hands-on, comprehensive learning experience. Derek Green, owner of Cooking with Greens and a past participant, shared, “The ALIGN course significantly benefited our business growth. The support from NSUIC and Selden Market created a dynamic learning environment that has truly strengthened our role in the community.”
Location and Workshops
Located at NSUIC, 520 E. Main Street, the sessions are perfectly situated to bridge innovation with opportunity in the heart of Downtown Norfolk. The program also features supplemental workshops on cutting-edge topics like business scalability and credit worthiness, ensuring participants are equipped to face today’s retail challenges head-on.
Community and Long-Term Success
Dr. Akosua Acheamponmaa, Director of the NSU Innovation Center, emphasized, “ALIGN is about more than just education. It’s about creating a community of thriving entrepreneurs, equipped with the tools to achieve long-term success.”
Application Information
Spots for the ALIGN series are limited, and applications close on February 16, 2025. Interested entrepreneurs can apply at nsuiconmain.com. Don’t miss this opportunity to join a program that’s redefining Norfolk’s retail landscape!
A copy of the press release can be downloaded here.
Question & Answer
1. What is the ALIGN Program Norfolk?
The ALIGN Program Norfolk is a free series organized by Norfolk State University’s Innovation Center (NSUIC) and Selden Market to uplift local small businesses and entrepreneurs through expert-led training, educational resources, and mentorship.
2. When does the ALIGN Program Norfolk commence?
The program will commence on March 3, 2025, with applications closing on February 16, 2025.
3. What are some of the topics covered in the ALIGN Program Norfolk?
The program covers crucial areas such as business planning, marketing strategies, and financial management to support Norfolk’s retail community.
