By Tim Ryan 

On June 12, 2025, Paul Hirschbiel stepped down as Chairman of Innovate Hampton Roads, leaving an indelible mark on our region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The following week, Paul was recognized as the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce’s 2025 Small Business Champion. Paul was celebrated for his decades-long dedication to fostering small business growth and resilience. His visionary leadership has empowered countless entrepreneurs, making him a true champion for our community.

Paul’s BA and MBA from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, served him well as he served as an early investor and board member for Dell from 1987 to 2000. Upon returning to Virginia Beach, Paul founded Eden Capital. Paul is also the co-founder of 757 Angels, which further fueled economic growth by providing critical capital to early-stage companies. In 2015, Paul co-founded StartWheel Corporation under the ReInvent Hampton Roads initiative, launching a nonprofit to connect entrepreneurs with resources, mentors, and events. Since then, StartWheel has become a vital resource, fostering startups and regional collaboration.

Paul’s crowning achievement is Innovate Hampton Roads, which would not exist without his vision. In May 2023, he spearheaded the merger of StartWheel and the Hampton Roads Innovation Collaborative, creating a unified platform to support startups and businesses. As chairman, Paul connected entrepreneurs with investors and mentors through programs like the HR BizWheel portal, elevating Hampton Roads’ innovation profile.

The Chamber lauds Paul’s “exceptional dedication” to small businesses, a fitting tribute to his legacy. As he steps down, Paul’s impact endures through Innovate Hampton Roads and the entrepreneurs he’s empowered. Thank you, Paul, for transforming our region and inspiring a future of innovation. Your legacy as our 2025 Small Business Champion will inspire generations.

Thank you for all that you have done for, me, Innovate Hampton Roads, and the region!

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