By Tim Ryan

Buckle up, Hampton Roads! Innovate Hampton Roads (IHR) just scored a major win with a Regional Innovation Fund (RIF) grant from the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC). This game-changing funding is set to supercharge our region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and we’re thrilled to share how it will ignite opportunities for you—our founders, dreamers, and doers.

At IHR, we’re all about amplifying opportunities, empowering entrepreneurs, and attracting investment to Hampton Roads. This grant empowers us to double down on our mission: connecting you to the resources, events, and networks that turn bold ideas into thriving businesses. From the Fervent Four Show podcast to the Start Peninsula pitch competitions and the REaKTOR Technology Innovation Center, we’re building pathways to success. And let’s not forget the Startup World Cup Virginia Regional Finals on August 21 in Virginia Beach, where our region’s top startups will battle for a shot at $1,000,000 in investment capital!

“Hampton Roads is a vibrant hub of innovation, but the demand for support outpaces our current capacity,” says Tim Ryan, IHR’s Executive Director. “VIPC’s grant is a catalyst, enabling us to expand programs that nurture entrepreneurs from ideation to impact, while showcasing our region’s success stories locally and nationally.”

This funding will help us strengthen our role as the one-stop conduit for Hampton Roads’ entrepreneurial community. Whether you’re seeking mentorship, funding, or connections, IHR is your go-to resource. We’re fostering collaborations with universities, investors, and industry leaders to create a dynamic ecosystem where startups thrive. Plus, we’re committed to supporting minority and female entrepreneurs, driving inclusivity and economic growth.

VIPC’s President and CEO, Joe Benevento, nails it: “Hampton Roads is a dynamic hub for startups. IHR’s work championing entrepreneurs and collaboration is vital, and we’re excited to support this growth.” We couldn’t agree more, and we’re deeply grateful for VIPC’s partnership in fueling our region’s innovation mission.

Led by Tim Ryan, Associate Director James Doe, and a powerhouse Board of community leaders, IHR is ready to take Hampton Roads to new heights. Join us at our next event, dive into our resources at innovate757.org, and let’s build the future together. The startup surge is here—Hampton Roads, let’s innovate!

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