By Tim Ryan

Since 2012, Start Peninsula has been the launchpad for bold ideas across Hampton Roads. What began as a single annual pitch event has evolved into a year-round platform that provides entrepreneurs with mentorship, funding, and the connections they need to thrive.

From Annual Event to Year-Round Support

In its early years (2012–2019), Start Peninsula was best known for its high-energy, in-person pitch competitions. Founders gathered for one chance each year to present their ideas and compete for funding.

Then came 2020, a turning point. To adapt to the times—and to better serve more entrepreneurs—Start Peninsula reimagined its format. Today, the program features:

  • Pitch Perfect Workshops – where founders refine their business pitches with expert guidance.

  • Micro Pitch Competitions – ten startups pitch, three advance to the Grand Finale.

  • Grand Finale – the final showdown each November, where three winners each take home $5,000. All finalists receive $500, ensuring every founder gains value along the journey.

This structure has created multiple on-ramps for founders to test ideas, sharpen skills, and build momentum throughout the year.

A Legacy of Startups

Over the past 13 years, Start Peninsula has helped launch companies that are now household names in the region and beyond, including:

  • AdvisorFinder

  • Aunt Carol’s Sauce

  • Chair One Fitness

  • Instant Teams

  • AnswersNow

  • OccasionGenius

  • Frog-Skin

  • Buskey Cider

  • and many more

Even legendary angel investor Jason Calacanis—often called “the greatest angel investor in the world”—took the stage as keynote in 2018, spotlighting the caliber of talent and opportunity Start Peninsula attracts.

Backed by the Region

Start Peninsula is powered by the Peninsula’s economic development agencies, which believe that investing in entrepreneurs is investing in the future of the region.

Applications Are Open – Your Turn to Start

Do you have a business idea—or maybe even just the spark of one? Start Peninsula is the place for you. Whether you need guidance, mentorship, or a shot at funding, this is where founders turn ambition into reality. Apply here.

The next Pitch Perfect workshop kicks off on September 3rd from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. Register here.

Don’t wait—applications are now open for the next Micro Pitch Competition on September 17th from 6:00 – 8:00 pm on Zoom. Not ready to pitch, watch the action by registering here.

👉 Apply today and take your first step toward launching your idea with Start Peninsula.