SOVA RISE: Regional Investment in Startups & Entrepreneurs

06/12/2026

People leave the RISE Summit with new ideas, new partnerships, and new momentum.

Join us at the 2026 RISE Summit on August 27th! Register today!

06/10/2026

This week's Entrepreneur Spotlight features Devyn Gill, owner of Gill Fitness Training in Martinsville, Virginia.

One of Devyn's proudest moments as a business owner was the grand opening of Gill Fitness Training on July 1, 2023. The day was especially meaningful because it was also his birthday and his mother's birthday. Celebrating the launch of his business surrounded by family and friends made the occasion one he will never forget.

When asked about the biggest lesson he has learned as an entrepreneur, Devyn shared:

"It's not about the fanciest equipment. It's not about all the bells and whistles. Building relationships with people and showing them you genuinely care has taken me farther than anything else. Regardless of what you do, it's how and why you do it."

That philosophy is reflected in the community Devyn has built through Gill Fitness Training. By focusing on relationships, encouragement, and genuine care for his clients, he has created more than a fitness business. He has created a place where people can grow stronger together.

Thank you, Devyn, for making a positive impact in Martinsville and helping others reach their goals.

06/10/2026

Congratulations to Mainly Clay on celebrating 14 years in business!

For more than a decade, Mainly Clay has been bringing creativity, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurship to Farmville. Milestones like this are a testament to hard work, dedication, and the support of loyal customers along the way.

We are grateful for the small businesses that help make our region a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

Thank you for all of your support. It is hard to believe it has been 14 years. We look forward to many more!

❤️

06/09/2026

Applications are now open for Rudy's Girl Media's 2026 Reel Stories Film Experience!

Reel Stories is a one-day filmmaking experience where high school students work in teams to create a 90-second short film highlighting a local small business. Participants gain hands-on experience in storytelling, filming, editing, and production while learning what it takes to bring a creative vision to life.

Participants will:
• Create, shoot, edit, and premiere a short film
• Compete for cash prizes
• Receive local business gift cards
• Attend a Red Carpet Premiere Event
• Have the opportunity to be featured online

Camp Day: Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Red Carpet Event: Thursday, July 30, 2026

Space is limited. Scan the QR code and apply today.

Thank you to our sponsors and community partners for helping us invest in the next generation of storytellers and creators.

06/09/2026

This week's Business Spotlight is Pumpkin and Bugg's Bake Shop in Halifax County.

If you've ever dreamed of finding a little ice cream shop that feels like summer, this is it.🍦

Located at 5318 Halifax Road, Pumpkin & Bugg's serves up delicious baked goods, fresh treats, and the only homemade ice cream in Halifax County. Whether you're stopping by for a scoop, a sweet treat, or a little taste of nostalgia, it's the kind of place that makes you slow down and enjoy the moment.

Businesses like Pumpkin & Bugg's create experiences, memories, and gathering places that make our communities special.

Next time you're craving a sweet treat, consider making a stop at Pumpkin & Bugg's.

06/08/2026

Are you interested in government contracting opportunities?

Join us for a workshop with Margaret Edmond of Virginia APEX Accelerator and learn the basics of federal government contracting, including:

• https://na2.hubs.ly/H061lFQ0 Registration
• Federal Acquisition Regulations
• Contracting Process
• Small Business Opportunities

Wednesday, June 17
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
SOVA Innovation Hub

Free to attend.

06/08/2026

There's still time to join The Startup Playbook on Tuesday, June 9, 5:30-6:30pm OR Tuesday, June 16, 12-1pm at the SOVA Innovation Hub. There are also two date options in Martinsville in July. This is for you if you're in the early stages of starting a business, or just exploring the idea!

Ready to take your shot?

Join Le'Bryan Patterson, RISE Navigator & Program Manager, for The Startup Playbook: Idea to Income, a practical workshop designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs move from concept to action.

Participants will learn how to refine their idea, understand their target customer, explore startup costs, and build a business model that supports long-term growth.

Part 1: Choose the ONE session that works best for you:
📅June 9 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📅June 16 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Hosted at the 📍SOVA Innovation Hub
Part 2: Schedule a one-on-one follow-up session for personalized support.

Space is limited. Register today. See comments for registration link.

06/05/2026

Building a strong business starts with connection.

Join Marilynn Cabiness, RISE Navigator & Ecosystem Builder, for upcoming Entrepreneur Meetups in Mecklenburg and Brunswick Counties.

📍 Mecklenburg Entrepreneur Meetup
June 25 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
TBD, South Hill

📍 Brunswick Entrepreneur Meetup
June 26 | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM
TBD, Lawrenceville

These casual gatherings are a chance to meet fellow entrepreneurs, business owners, farmers, ag producers, and aspiring entrepreneurs while learning about resources available to help businesses start, grow, and succeed.

No registration required. Just stop by and join the conversation.

06/04/2026

The RISE Summit returns on August 27.

Join entrepreneurs, business owners, and innovators from across Southern Virginia for a day focused on connection, practical learning, and business growth.

🎟 Super Early Bird tickets are available now.

Register today: see comments for link.

06/03/2026

Ready to take your shot?

Join Le'Bryan Patterson, RISE Navigator & Program Manager, for The Startup Playbook: Idea to Income, a practical workshop designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs move from concept to action.

Participants will learn how to refine their idea, understand their target customer, explore startup costs, and build a business model that supports long-term growth.

Part 1: Choose the ONE session that works best for you:
📅June 9 | 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📅June 16 | 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Hosted at the 📍SOVA Innovation Hub
Part 2: Schedule a one-on-one follow-up session for personalized support.

Space is limited. Register today. See comments for registration link.