WAYNESBORO, Va. (WVIR) – An award-winning effort to cultivate local businesses is expanding in Waynesboro, with a new focus on the up-and-coming Rockfish Gateway corridor on East Main Street.
Aspiring entrepreneurs and current small business owners are invited to join the free, seven-week training series called Grow Waynesboro Rockfish Gateway.
The program is designed to equip participants with the core skills needed to launch or grow a successful venture, covering everything from crafting a business plan to mastering marketing and finances.
Top graduates will get a chance to pitch their ideas to a live audience, competing for a slice of $57,500 in seed funding.
Organizers plan to award at least three grants, with the most compelling business concepts eligible for up to $25,000 each to help bring their plans to life by late 2026.
“Grow Waynesboro has a track record of turning big ideas into real businesses,” said Greg Hitchin, Director of Waynesboro Economic Development and Tourism. “By focusing this round on Rockfish Gateway, we’re helping fuel the district’s momentum and inviting the next wave of entrepreneurs to shape Waynesboro’s future.”
Funding for the launch comes from a $50,000 state grant awarded to the city this summer as part of a broader push by the Youngkin administration to revitalize downtowns across the commonwealth.
The Rockfish Gateway district stretches from the Blue Ridge Tunnel to the Virginia Metalcrafters marketplace and serves as a primary entrance to the city from Interstate 64, Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The area is already home to popular destinations like Basic City Beer Co. and The Foundry, and will soon undergo VDOT-funded streetscape improvements.
The city is now accepting applications for the program, with classes set to begin early next year.
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