Leverage Small Business Resources at The HIVE During National Small Business Month

May is National Small Business Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the role small businesses play in fueling economic growth and innovation in Virginia Beach. As The HIVE VB Business Resource Center  approaches its third anniversary, its mission remains steadfast — fostering the growth of small businesses in Virginia Beach.  

In 2023, The HIVE assisted over 1,770 clients, delivered 343 business workshops, and helped 65 individuals create a business plan. In addition, nearly 1,500 clients received one-on-one counseling, 204 clients became certified as Small, Women-owned, and Minority-owned Businesses (SWaM), and 42 new businesses were created. 

While May commemorates National Small Business Month, it also honors Military Appreciation Month. Among the 236 small businesses that received face-to-face help from The HIVE, about 16% are owned by veterans, showcasing their significant contribution to the entrepreneurial landscape. 

Small Business Resources Offered in May

The HIVE offers virtual and in-person training opportunities. Some of the opportunities offered in May on-site at The HIVE, 140 Independence Blvd., are highlighted below, with a full list of upcoming events on the event calendar.  

Legal Forms Support Small Businesses 
Monday, May 20, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. 

In this one-hour workshop, Virginia Beach Public Library assists small business owners to find some free legal forms that support their small business. 

SWaM Certification Information Session 
Wednesday, May 22, 10 a.m. to noon 

This workshop will cover the SWaM Program and certification/designation types, online application process, required documents needed to apply, and how to use the certification to do business with the Commonwealth. 

Building Wealth as an Entrepreneur 
Thursday, May 30, 6-7 p.m. 

Choosing the right wealth building strategies may feel daunting at times especially if you don’t know where to start. Join this one-hour session to delve into smart ways to manage and grow your wealth as an entrepreneur. 

Ongoing Resources 

Throughout the entire year, The HIVE offers individualized consulting and can assist small businesses with the following: 

• Business plans 
• Financial statements 
• Credit repair management 
• Small business loan applications
• Market research 
• Capital formation 

Through the Thrive @ The HIVE program, The HIVE also offers workspace at no cost to existing Virginia Beach startups, home-based businesses and military spouse entrepreneurs to help them grow and succeed. Program participants have access to free workspace at The HIVE for two business days a week for a period of two months, in addition to all the resources The HIVE has to offer. 

The Virginia Beach SWaM Business Office also provides informational and training sessions to assist businesses in obtaining contracts with the City of Virginia Beach. Learn more about available resources at virginiabeach.gov/swam. 

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