Old Dominion University’s Strome College of Business and Cox Communications are launching the 2025 Cox Small Business Leadership Academy, a 9-week virtual program running from June 3 to July 29, 2025. The program is designed to help Hampton Roads entrepreneurs, including start-ups and established vendors, boost their businesses by enhancing their marketing, revenue, and management skills. In addition, the academy offers scholarships that cover tuition costs for accepted Cox vendors or business customers, with priority given to registered Cox partners. The program fosters innovation and provides opportunities to connect with regional innovators. The Cox Small Business Leadership Academy is part of a larger effort to continue ODU’s legacy of promoting local growth and solidifying the region’s status as a hub for business innovation.

Introduction

By Tim Ryan

2025 Cox Small Business Leadership Academy

Hampton Roads entrepreneurs, get ready to take your business to new heights! Old Dominion University’s Strome College of Business, in partnership with Cox Communications, is launching the 2025 Cox Small Business Leadership Academy, a game-changing 9-week virtual program running from June 3 to July 29, 2025. This is your chance to gain cutting-edge skills, connect with regional innovators, and fuel the entrepreneurial spirit that’s transforming our region.

Program Details

Designed for for-profit businesses with a Federal Employer Identification Number, this program offers expert-led training to sharpen your marketing, boost revenue, and enhance management skills. Whether you’re a startup founder or a seasoned vendor, the academy equips you with actionable strategies to grow smarter and faster. Cox Communications is sweetening the deal by offering scholarships to accepted Cox vendors or business customers, covering tuition costs. Priority goes to registered Cox partners, so don’t wait—reserve your spot by May 27, 2025!

Building on Innovation

Hampton Roads is no stranger to innovation. From the tech startups in Norfolk’s Neon District to the family-owned businesses thriving in Virginia Beach, our region is a hotbed of entrepreneurial energy. Programs like the Cox Small Business Leadership Academy build on this momentum, continuing ODU’s legacy of fostering local growth. Past initiatives, like ODU’s entrepreneurial bootcamps and the Strome Entrepreneurial Center’s mentorship programs, have empowered countless local businesses to scale and succeed. This academy is the latest chapter in that story, offering tailored education to help you navigate today’s competitive landscape.

Get Involved

Why should you get involved? Beyond the practical skills, this program connects you to a network of like-minded innovators across Hampton Roads. It’s a chance to collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to the region’s reputation as a hub for business innovation. Visit odu.edu/business/community-connections/cox-academy to register, or contact turner@odu.edu (mailto:turner@odu.edu) at 757-683-3520 for details.

Celebrate Innovation

Innovate Hampton Roads is all about celebrating and accelerating our region’s entrepreneurial journey. The Cox Small Business Leadership Academy is your opportunity to write the next chapter of your business success. Apply today, and let’s keep Hampton Roads thriving as Virginia’s innovation powerhouse!
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