Where Small Businesses Thrive
The HIVE is your one-stop resource hub designed to support startups and growing businesses in Virginia Beach, especially those in historically underserved communities. Through free services, strategic partnerships, and expert guidance, we help entrepreneurs turn ideas into action.
The HIVE is a collaboration between the City of Virginia Beach, academic institutions, small business associations, and other entrepreneurial-related organizations across the region.
Bring It To The Beach- One-on-one business counseling.
- Private conference rooms for meetings with HIVE business partners.
- Secure high-speed Wi-Fi.
- Free events and business forums.
- Access to computers and other technology.
- Unlimited free parking.
- Business plan development.
- Business licensing.
- City permitting and processes.
- Legal, insurance, and financial guidance.
- Grant and loan application assistance.
- Talent innovation, hiring, training, and management.
- Marketing and product development.
- Government contracting and certifications.
- Vocational education and industry-related certifications.
- Hard skills (e.g., IT, welding).
- Soft skills (e.g., leadership and communication).
- Zoning-related questions.
- Companies in the infancy to maturity phase.
- New businesses in Virginia Beach.
- International companies expanding to the U.S.
- Individuals who want to expand their skillset.
- Existing businesses looking to grow and expand.
- Virginia Wesleyan University
- Tidewater Community College
- Hampton Roads Workforce Council
- Virginia Beach SWaM (Small, Women, and Minority-owned) Business Office
- Virginia Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity Agency
- Women's Business Center at Old Dominion University
- Business Development Center at Old Dominion University
- Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center
- Veterans Business Outreach Centers
- Virginia Beach City Public Schools - Entrepreneurship and Business Academy
- Virginia APEX Accelerator.
- Urban League of Hampton Roads
- Virginia Beach Public Library
- SCORE - Hampton Roads Chapter
- Local Initiatives Support Corporation
- Legal partners: Poole Brooke Plumlee PC
- Banking partners: Fulton Bank, Langley Federal Credit Union
More than just space, the HIVE gives you access to a robust network of expert partners who offer hands-on support, specialized knowledge, and real-world experience to help your business grow.
Let's stay connected.
Sign up for our monthly newsletter to get updates about events, trainings, grant opportunities, and more.
Want a sneak peek? Check out our latest newsletter to stay in the know.
Learn MoreReady to grow together?
Whether you're building a business, exploring a new idea, or looking to connect with like-minded entrepreneurs, there's a seat at the table for you. Fill out this form to begin scheduling a meeting with us or drop by The HIVE to get started.
More ways to learn and grow together
The HIVE hosts a wide range of free events designed to support entrepreneurs, small business owners, and curious minds at every stage. From hands-on workshops and information sessions to weekly coaching calls, our programs bring together local experts, thought leaders, and community members to share knowledge and spark growth.
This program is temporarily on hold. Please contact thehive@vbgov.com for more details.
Grants are more than funding—they’re an investment in your success.
The HIVE does not administer, endorse, or take responsibility for these grants, loans, or their application processes. If you are looking for financial capital for your business, you’re welcome to meet with a specialist or mentor at The HIVE for guidance.
We are always looking to partner with individuals and organizations who are passionate about supporting the local business community through training, mentorship and shared expertise.
Be part of The HIVE mind
The HIVE thrives on collaboration. We partner with local organizations, educational institutions, small business affiliates, and community leaders who share our vision to empower small businesses and supercharge Virginia Beach’s economic growth—and we’re always on the lookout for new partners.
If you provide services, expertise, or opportunities that could benefit local entrepreneurs and small businesses, we’d love to hear from you.
Why partner with us
- Connect with a diverse network of organizations, businesses, and entrepreneurs.
- Host workshops, offer one-on-one counseling, or co-develop programming that drives impact.
- Gain visibility within Virginia Beach’s business community.
- Help historically overlooked entrepreneurs get a foothold in the market.
- Play a direct role in fostering real, inclusive, high-impact economic growth.
The HIVE newsletter brings you the latest updates, resources and success stories from Virginia Beach’s dynamic center for entrepreneurs and small business growth. For the latest, follow us on social media.
Archived Newsletters
Upcoming Partner Events
From hands-on application assistance to resume writing, our special partner-led sessions offer practical support to help move you forward.
October
Workshop | Date and Time | RSVP Link |
|---|---|---|
Contract Basics 101: What is a Contract? | Oct. 15, 10 a.m. to noon | |
Procurement Cafe: Doing Business with the City of Virginia Beach | Oct. 24, 10-11:30 a.m. | |
Proposal Development | Oct. 30, 1-3 p.m. |
Make an appointment to attend one of our free weekly sessions, and get expert guidance on finances, marketing, leadership, growing your small business, and more.
Find a business mentorThe SWaM Business Office provides resources and trainings to help small, women-, minority-, and service-disabled/veteran-owned businesses obtain contracts with the City of Virginia Beach.
Informational/Training SessionsPrior Events Spotlight
140 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.