Newport News Economic Development Authority (EDA)

1-on-1 Marketing & Branding Support
2026-03-18 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-19 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-20 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-25 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-26 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-27 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-04-08 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-04-23 12:30 - 15:30 (Africa/Abidjan) and 1 more date | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Sign up for a free marketing and branding support session (virtual or in person @ The HIVE in VA Beach) using the Calendly link below!
DO NOT Sign up Via EVENTBRITE!
PLEASE use the following link to sign up for the event: Calendly, DO NOT Sign up Via EVENTBRITE!
Provided by Simon Matthews, CEO of Open Door Media Solutions is here to provide advice and valuable resources to help you make a confident, well-informed decision about your marketing! During your conversation, he’ll take the time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and share insights tailored specifically to your business needs.
Simply choose any day and time from the calendar that works best for you, and lock in a session that fits your schedule. He looks forward to connecting with you soon and helping you take the next step toward achieving your marketing goals!

MIG Welding 101 NFK (16+)
2026-03-18 18:30 - 20:30 | 757 Makerspace – Norfolk, 737 E 23rd St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Learn the basics of MIG Welding in this introductory class.
This workshop is for any DIY person who can work a hot-glue gun and is ready to move to metal work with a basic wire-feed or MIG (Metal inert gas) welder. During this 2-hour workshop, we speak about the different types of consumer welding (MIG, TIG, Arc), focusing on the easiest style which is wire-fed/MIG, amperage vs voltage, temperature vs wire-flow, proper speed and flow techniques, penetration vs burn through, 110v vs 220v, consumer vs professional, and so on. This workshop aims to get you comfortable and secure enough to get hands-on creative experience, then ready for custom fabrication and art creation in later workshops. Students will feel safe enough to start shopping after for a welder and supplies, or to rent one for their projects. In this hands-on workshop, participants will leave with a fun, takeaway project.
This is a basic demonstration and hands-on steel welding for hobbyists. Required: Closed-toe shoes (no flops), long pants (no shorts), long sleeve cotton shirt or jacket that can take small sparks, open mind, open ears, comfy shoes. Gloves are provided but it is preferred that you bring your own for fit- Goatskin or Deerskin gloves work well.Disclaimer:This is not a class to earn certifications. This class is purely a hands-on experience to provide access to a welder and the basics of how it works. Safe practices should always precede caution and participants attend at their own risk.
Duration: 2 Hours
(All materials included)

Filing Season Essentials for Small Business Owners
2026-03-19 14:00 - 15:30 | Online event
Filing taxes may seem like a challenge, but the IRS has tools and resource to help make filing season successful.
Join IRS Stakeholder Liaison and *insert organization here* for a tax filing season information session. During this session, we will discuss:
How to get help from the IRS
Filing requirements for tax returns and information returns
Tips for gathering and organizing tax records
Tips for choosing a tax professional
Refund and payment options
Online tools for business owners
How to stay connected with the IRS
There will also be a live Q & A.

Small Business Lawyer One-on-Ones
2026-03-20 10:00 - 15:00 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Schedule a FREE 30 minute Question and Answer session with Attorney Roberts of Reviewed By Roberts, PLLC.
This time is intended to discuss GENERAL Legal questions and provide GENERAL information regarding legal options and potential routes for resolving or avoiding legal issues. You may also discuss general business related questions and questions as to “what to,” “how to,” and “where to.”
If you have any questions that require further discussion or legal situations that require closer review, there are options to book an extended consultation with Attorney Roberts as a client through The HIVE.

Identifying and Creating Your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP)
2026-03-23 09:00 - 10:30 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Get a clearer picture of your best potential clients! In the workshop you will…
Analyze the need for your products or services.
Understand the economic buyer and business influencers.
Learn to focus on ICP differences in gender, generation, and experiences.
Build your ICP using a template you can easily convert for your business.

PART 1: Navigating Federal Contracting Landscape and Inactive Proposal
2026-03-24 09:00 - 11:00 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
This is a 6-part introduction to federal contracting and inactive proposal lab workshop offered by Hillary Boyce of BAFO Services LLC.
This session lays the foundation for understanding how the federal government buys goods and services—and how small businesses can successfully compete. Participants will gain a strong grasp of the federal acquisition process, including the differences between Requests for Proposals (RFPs), Requests for Quotations (RFQs), and Requests for Information (RFIs). Learn how to identify opportunities through direct awards and socio-economic set-asides (e.g., SDVOSB, WOSB, HUBZone), and understand your role as either a prime contractor or subcontractor.
Learning Objectives:
Understand key federal procurement vehicles and terminology
Identify when and how to pursue set-aside opportunities

One-on-One Business Mentoring with SCORE
2026-03-24 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-31 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-07 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-14 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-04-21 10:00 - 12:00 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Need expert advice to grow your business?
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, SCORE’s business mentors can help guide you through your next steps. Walk-ins are welcome, but appointments are preferred to ensure you get the time and attention you need.

Beginner Pottery Wheel Workshop
2026-03-25 18:00 - 20:00, 2026-04-08 18:00 - 20:00 | 757 Makerspace, 737 E 23rd St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Beginner friendly pottery wheel class. Get messy, try the wheel, make your first pieces, and have fun in a relaxed studio setting.
Ever wanted to try the pottery wheel but were not sure where to start. This single session class is your invite. Total beginners are welcome and no experience is needed.
You will sit down at your own wheel and learn the basics step by step with Evan. How to center clay. How to shape simple forms. How to fix wobbles. How to pull the walls up without collapsing them. Expect to get your hands dirty and have some fun. The goal is not perfection. The goal is trying something new and enjoying the process.
Evan will demo and then coach you at the wheel so you always know what to do next. You will also get a simple overview of clay and glazes so the full journey from wet clay to finished pot actually makes sense.
This class is perfect if you are curious about pottery, want a fun creative night out, or just need a stress reset with your hands in clay.
What is included:
All materials provided
Use of wheels, tools, and studio space during class
Guided instruction in small groups
Important notes
Single session intro class
Ages 15 and up
Work will not be fired or glazed in this session
Wear comfortable clothes and closed toe shoes you do not mind getting messy
Bring an apron if you like
Come play in the clay, meet good people, and try something new at 757 Makerspace Norfolk.

Screen Printing and Print Making with Dula (NFK 16+)
2026-03-25 18:30 - 20:30 | 757 Makerspace – Norfolk, 737 E 23rd St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Learn the hands-on process of screenprinting at 757 Makerspace!
Welcome to our Introduction to Screen Printing and Print Making class!
Do you want to learn the process of transforming a blank canvas into a work of art? Then this class is perfect for you!
Our experienced instructors will guide you through the entire screen printing process from start to finish. You’ll learn how to create your own stencils, mix ink, and print your designs onto a variety of surfaces including paper, fabric, and more.
Not only will you leave the class with a newfound appreciation for this amazing art form, but you’ll also have your own personalized prints to show off to your friends and family.
So why wait? Come join us for a fun-filled evening of creativity and self-expression. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, this class is open to all skill levels. We can’t wait to see what you create!
Included:
-Tote Bag or T-Shirt (depending on what we are making that night)
Optional:
– You may bring two more articles to be printed on (ex. shirt or tote)

Metal Art: Intro to Plasma Cutting
2026-03-26 18:00 - 19:30 | 757 Makerspace, 737 E 23rd St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Get hands-on with plasma cutting and create cool metal art in this fun, in-person intro class!
Metal Art: Plasma Cutting Workshop
Ever wanted to cut through steel like it’s butter and walk away with something you made with your own hands? Now you can. In this 2-hour hands-on workshop, you’ll learn to use a handheld plasma cutter to slice through steel and create your own one-of-a-kind metal art piece. No experience required.
You’ll start with a safety briefing and guided practice cuts on scrap metal before moving to your actual piece. Choose from a selection of bold pre-made stencil designs, cut your shape, clean up the edges, and finish it off ready to hang or display. Sparks will fly. You’ll love it.
Class is capped at 3 students to ensure everyone gets maximum hands-on time with the equipment. Prior welding experience is not required, but students who’ve taken our Intro to MIG Welding class will feel right at home.
What’s included: All materials, safety gear, and instruction
Take home: Your finished metal art piece
Class size: 3 students max
Duration: 2 hours

FREE Personal Branding, Lunch & Learn
2026-03-27 12:00 - 13:30 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
**DO NOT REGISTER HERE! REGISTER AT THIS LINK HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-personal-branding-lunch-learn-tickets-1983137190722 **
**DO NOT REGISTER HERE! REGISTER AT THIS LINK HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/free-personal-branding-lunch-learn-tickets-1983137190722 **
Learn how to leverage your influence, with personal branding strategies.
In Partnership with the Virginia Beach SWaM business office and Open Door Media Solutions, join us over Lunch for this FREE Personal Branding Master Class!
Use Code ODMS0327 to get10% discount off your pizza order from our food sponsor Donatos Pizza.
During this session, we’ll discuss Personal Branding strategies that will help you earn and leverage your influence.
In this session, we will discuss:
Pathways to becoming an authority & thought leader
Creating a Values-Based Personal Brand
Brand Archetypes
Brand Voice and Tone
Visual Branding
Differentiation
Thank you DONATOS PIZZA for providing this session’s FREE lunch!
Before the event, use Code ODMS0327 to get a 10% discount on your pizza order!
Offer Ends 3/27
Special offer available only at these locations:
Hilltop 1833 Republic Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454
AND
Jefferson Marketplace, 12515 Jefferson Ave. Newport News, VA. (757) 525-4944
Additional Exclusive Offers Available For Attendees

Start Peninsula 2026 Micro Pitch #2
2026-04-08 18:00 - 20:00 | VA
Start Peninsula Micro Pitches: 3-minute pitches, 10 participants, 3 finalists advance to November’s final. Big ideas, bold opportunities!
Do You Have a Business Idea – Start Peninsula is the Place for You!
Do you have a business idea (or invention) and need guidance and/or funding to get it off the ground? Then clear your calendar for one of our upcoming Micro Pitch Competitions! Start Peninsula is an organization dedicated to helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses by providing mentorship, networking and funding opportunities. Start Peninsula helps launch you and your business idea towards success through hosting pitch competitions, pitch workshops and informational sessions.
Start Peninsula is an organization dedicated to helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses by providing mentorship, networking and funding opportunities. Start Peninsula helps launch you and your business idea towards success through hosting pitch competitions, pitch workshops and informational sessions.

Business Finance Basics
2026-04-09 10:00 - 11:00 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
This financial workshop is presented by Vice President and Financial Inclusion Leader Mara Bostelman of Truist Bank.
This interactive session will help show you how to build, manage, and protect your business for years to come.
In this course, you’ll learn key elements of business finance basics to manage your cash flow, explore ways to expand your business, and understanding insurance for your business.
We’ll also provide valuable take-away resources to help you and your business.
Agenda:
Manage Cash Flow
Expand Your Business
Protect Your Business

SWaM Certification Information Session
2026-04-21 15:00 - 16:30 | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
How Can SWaM Certification Benefit My Business?
DO NOT Sign up Via EVENTBRITE!
*****PLEASE use the following link to sign up for the event:*****
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/swam-certification-information-session-tickets-1986536207272?aff=oddtdtcreator
How Can SWaM Certification Benefit My Business?
THIS IS AN IN PERSON WORKSHOP AND WILL NOT BE RECORDED
Join Us to learn more about SWaM Certification … This workshop is FREE to attend… MUST REGISTER TO RECEIVE UPDATES!!
Are you a small, women-owned, or minority-owned business looking to expand your opportunities? The Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity (SBSD) invites you to an informational session on the SWaM Certification process.
Why Get SWaM Certified?SWaM (Small, Women-, and Minority-Owned) certification is a powerful tool that can help your business secure contracts with:
State Agencies
Public Colleges & Universities
Local Municipalities
Private Sector Companies utilizing the SWaM database
Each year, the Commonwealth of Virginia spends over $8 billion on goods and services. Becoming SWaM certified can open doors to new business opportunities and increase your visibility among potential state buyers.
What You’ll Learn in This Workshop:
Overview of the SWaM Program
Eligibility requirements for certification (including Micro and Service-Disabled designations)
Step-by-step guidance on how to apply
How to position yourself to bid with the Commonwealth of Virginia
Presented by Angela Barber, Business Services Manager – Hampton Roads/Eastern Shore Region.

eVA: Virginia’s Online Bidding Portal
2026-04-22 10:00 - 12:00 | Online event
This advanced workshop is the 2nd in our series & focuses on lead generation.
DO NOT Sign up Via EVENTBRITE!
*****PLEASE use the following link to sign up for the event:*****
https://dgs-virginia.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/gYqbbunqRbyMz-GssrD4sA
This advanced workshop is the 2nd in our series & focuses on lead generation. This hands-on session explores the public transparency tools available on the eVA website, including the Report & Resource Center and the new “power” search. You’ll learn how to identify buyers who are buying what you sell, determine prices being paid for goods/services, identify who’s getting business (is it you or your competition). We’ll also walk through the Virginia Business Opportunities public posting page – featuring collaboration tools like B2B Connect & VIBE – as we discuss how & when eVA builds a lead list for you and why rating your leads is important.
