Small Business/SWaM
Small Business/SWaM
Small but Mighty
Small businesses are big business for the City of Virginia Beach and a key component to creating a vibrant, successful, and global community. As one of America’s largest cities, Virginia Beach understands the greatness obtained from embracing a diversity of people and business. By creating a dynamic framework where new ideas blend with the existing environment, we can ensure a sustainable and successful future. Part of that framework includes having a business community that represents all of the community.
In Virginia Beach...
99% of all establishments are small businesses (less than 249 employees) - (2020 VEC data)
7% of business establishments are new startups (2018 Census data)
On average, 432 new startup establishments are developed annually (2020 VEC data)

Program Objectives
While starting a business is fairly easy and inexpensive, it does require major commitments of time and resources. The Virginia Beach Economic Development staff can provide management, technical, and other resources to assist entrepreneurs and leaders interested in starting or growing a business in Virginia Beach. We and our partner agencies also offer various mentoring/training programs for small and startup firms, as well as women-and minority-owned companies of any size. The City of Virginia Beach's business portal can help your company find the best solution for its long-term growth needs.
The Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE) offers free business counseling if you are considering starting a business.
It's not a sales pitch, and it's not an investor pitch.
1 Million Cups is a global initiative of the Kauffman Foundation (www.kauffman.org) to support, educate and promote local entrepreneurs.
The Virginia Beach chapter (known locally as "Shark Tank….Without the Bite") was launched in 2015 by the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development and the local entrepreneur community. Over the years, more than 1400 entrepreneurs and small business owners have attended the meetings, held every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at Stratford University Virginia Beach Campus. Over 70 entrepreneurs have presented.
For more information, contact Ray White, Business Development Coordinator, Virginia Beach Economic Development at (757) 385-6459.