Newport News Economic Development Authority (EDA)

Scale Without Hiring: How Solopreneurs and Small Teams Can Use Ai to Grow
2026-03-17 14:00 - 16:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | 200 High Street Suite 201, 2 High St, Portsmouth, VA, United States
Discover how solopreneurs and small teams can boost growth with Ai—no extra hires needed!
Scale Without Hiring: How Solopreneurs and Small Teams Can Use Ai to Grow (Virtual & In-Person)
In this practical 2-hour session, business owners will learn how to use Ai tools to save time, streamline operations, and scale without increasing overhead. This is not a technical or theory-heavy presentation. Instead, participants will see a live demonstration of how Ai can help generate marketing content, organize workflows, improve client communication, and create simple systems that support growth.
This session is designed specifically for solopreneurs and small business owners who want practical, real-world applications they can implement immediately.
Participants will leave with:• A clear understanding of what Ai actually is (and isn’t)• A live demonstration of Ai in action for business growth• Practical prompts and use cases they can begin using right away
The goal is to reduce overwhelm and increase confidence so local business owners can use Ai as a tool for economic growth and operational efficiency.

HRNG & S.M.I.L.E. Thank You Note Writing Event at Gather VB
2026-03-17 10:30 - 12:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | Gather Virginia Beach – Office Space and Coworking, 249 Bus Park Dr, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Join us for a St. Patrick’s Day Thank You Note Writing & Networking Event hosted by the amazing Kristen Mantlo with S.M.I.L.E. at Gather VB
HRNG Thank You Note Writing- Kristen Mantlo🍀with S.M.I.L.E.
🍀Ah the lost art of the hand-written note! Join us for a St. Patrick’s Day Thank You Note Writing & Networking Event hosted by the amazing Kristen Mantlo with S.M.I.L.E. Samantha Makes It a Little Easier. She’s Irish-perfect. We will have a Bit o’ Irish fun and enjoy some coffee and refreshments. Bring your list of people you’d like to thank and their addresses (optional) and we will provide the Thank you notes, and even some Stamps! Kristen will also teach us some writing etiquette.
🍀What about the science behind it? Glad you asked! Scientific research proves that higher levels of gratitude significantly enhance overall well-being, including increased happiness, better physical health (lower blood pressure, stronger immune system), improved sleep, and stronger social relationships. Cultivating gratitude rewires the brain to boost feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, while reducing stress hormones. So let’s give some thanks!
🍀Want to network, but don’t want to write notes? We will play a game of “Get to Know you Bingo” and we will have some Door Prizes as well. You can get a head start on Holiday cards, or help someone put stamps on their cards.
🍀Please wear something GREEN!🍀
Free for HRNG Paid Members. Only $10 for Non-Members.
🍀Space is Limited to the first 35 to RSVP and get their tickets on EventBrite.

One-on-One Business Mentoring with SCORE
2026-03-17 10:00 - 12:00, 2026-03-10 10:00 - 12:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | 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.

The Network: Direct Employer Access (Norfolk)
2026-03-17 09:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-12 09:00 - 15:00, 2026-03-10 09:00 - 15:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Hampton Roads Veterans Employment Center (HRVEC), 861 Glenrock Rd, Norfolk, VA, United States
Stop applying online. Start shaking hands. Bypass the resume “black hole.” Meet vetted hiring managers who know what your clearance is worth
The Algorithm Can’t Hire You. We Can.
The Problem: You spend hours tailoring your resume. You submit it to an online portal. You wait. You hear nothing. The “Black Hole” of online applications is the enemy of a fast transition.
The Solution: The Network is your bypass. We cut the red tape and put you in the room with the people who actually sign the offer letters.
This isn’t a “job fair” where you collect brochures. This is a tactical access point to the 757’s most aggressive military-hiring companies. We have vetted every employer in the room. They aren’t here to tell you to “apply on the website”—they are here to find their next team leader.
Who Should Attend:
Transitioning Service Members: Who are tired of the waiting game.
Military Spouses: Looking for employers who understand the PCS lifestyle.
Veterans: Ready to level up from their current civilian role.
Your Rules of Engagement:
Bring Resumes if you have them BUT no biggie if you don’t.
Be Social: No stress, take your 30 seconds to tell them who you are. Make it count. Learn who they are and what they’re looking for. If it’s not you, how you can help.
The job market is all about who you know. Come know the right people.
If you have any additional questions, please do not hesitate to contact us:
Phone: 757-807-0423
Email: militarycommunity@theworkforcecouncil.org
This event and the services provided herein at the Hampton Roads Veterans Employment Centers are funded through 25% or $199,576 through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and 75% or $580,391 through nonfederal sources.

Creative Capital: Innovative Funding Strategies for Modern Entrepreneurs
2026-03-16 11:00 - 12:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Join Craig Palmore of Trust Financial Solutions for a one-hour workshop on non-traditional bank funding.
Business owners today have more financing choices than ever—if they know where to look. Join us to explore how non-traditional funding options can provide the capital you need to grow, invest, and seize new opportunities. We’ll cover flexible solutions like merchant cash advances, fix-and-flip loans, factoring, and commercial real estate lending. Find out how to position yourself for funding success and navigate today’s alternative lending marketplace with confidence.

1-on-1 Marketing & Branding Support
2026-03-13 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-12 12:30 - 15:30, 2026-03-11 12:30 - 15:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | 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!

Procurement Cafe: Doing Business with the City of Virginia Beach
2026-03-13 10:00 - 11:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | The HIVE by City of Virginia Beach, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Get the inside scoop on navigating the procurement process with the City of Virginia Beach at the upcoming Procurement Cafe.
Grab a cup of coffee and join us for the Virginia Beach Procurement Café—an interactive, small-business-friendly workshop designed to help you learn how to do business with the City of Virginia Beach. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your current government contracting work, this event will provide practical tools and direct access to the City’s Procurement team. This session will cover the differences between formal and informal procurement methods in City solicitations.

Women in Business Monthly Coffee Meetup
2026-03-13 08:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Astraea Coffee, 2438 N Landing Rd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Join us at Astraea Coffee! The event is open to the public and no registration is required.
(The link provided goes to a Contact Form to subscribe for event updates.)

Assembly Office Hours: A Progressive Tapas Party
2026-03-12 20:00 - 23:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | 400 Granby St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Step out of your usual routine and into a night made for adventure! This isn’t your typical office hours—we’ll start in the living room, and each stop along our journey will feature a tenant paired with small bites, vibrant conversation, and refreshing drinks. This progressive tapas party offers an opportunity to connect with fellow members, explore different spaces, and enjoy a curated culinary journey. Open to tenants and members + one guest. Please RSVP in the community portal. – https://community.assemblynfk.com/en/events/view/1415664695/assembly-office-hours-a-progressive-tapas-party

Elevate: What Does it Take to Grow a Nonprofit
2026-03-12 16:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Assembly, 400 Granby St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Nonprofit founders & exec directors—let’s talk about what it takes to grow. Come meet the Plywood People team, connect with other leaders, and learn more about the new Impact Leader Hampton Roads program. Whether you want to apply, help spread the word or just curious, we’d love to see you.

Borrowing for Small Businesses Lunch 'n Learn
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | The IncuHub – Hampton, 1 Eaton St, Hampton, VA, United States
Enjoy a FREE lunch and participate in a workshop on effective borrowing strategies for small businesses
In this free workshop presented by Truist Vice President Mara Bostelman, you’ll learn the whys and hows of borrowing for small businesses that can set you and your business up for success

Da Art of Storytellin': Chapter 3
2026-03-11 23:00 - 2026-03-12 02:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | 400 Granby St, Norfolk, VA, United States
Come out for the third installment in an immersive series exploring the journey behind how art is created across mediums through powerful, personal storytelling. This session will take you behind the scenes of photography and videography, focusing on the instincts, experiences, and perspective of the person behind the camera. Through an interactive conversation with visual creatives, attendees explore how identity, environment, and emotion shape the stories we see — and the moments we don’t, hosted by Big Ph!sh and SoDope. – https://posh.vip/e/da-art-of-storytellin-chapter-3

Intro to the Pottery Wheel with Evan (NFK Single Session 15+)
2026-03-11 18:00 - 20:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | 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.

Lunch & Learn with Leader's (L3 Series) with Bill & Heidi Dittmar
2026-03-11 11:30 - 13:30 (Africa/Abidjan) | 448 Viking Dr suite 300, 448 Viking Dr, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
The Art of Authentic Connection in Business: Define your value proposition and compete with clarity and confidence.
The Art of Authentic Connection in Business
Just like every business must craft their “Unique Value Proposition” & “Brand Narrative” in order to Compete, Survive & Thrive so does each of us as individuals.
As CEOs and growth leaders, we demand that our organizations clearly define a compelling Unique Value Proposition and differentiated Brand Narrative in order to compete, survive, and thrive.
Yet many accomplished executives have never applied that same strategic rigor to themselves.
In competitive markets—especially within GovCon, enterprise environments, and emerging growth sectors—clarity of personal value is not optional. It is leverage. Deals are won, partnerships are formed, and trust is accelerated when leaders can articulate precisely what differentiates them and why it matters.
This interactive workshop moves beyond networking theory. It is a positioning exercise for leaders.
Key discussion areas include:
Why authentic connection consistently outperforms transactional networking
The distinction between a résumé summary and a true executive value proposition
How clarity strengthens influence, credibility, and deal velocity
Aligning personal positioning with organizational strategy and growth objectives
Participants will leave with:
A clear understanding of why personal positioning directly impacts organizational growth and market credibility
A proven framework for defining their individual Unique Value Proposition
A concise 5–6 sentence, strengths-based Brand Narrative crafted during the session
Live small-group practice articulating that narrative with clarity, confidence, and authority
If you cannot clearly articulate what makes you indispensable, you risk becoming interchangeable.
This session is designed for CEOs and new business leaders who intend to lead conversations, differentiate decisively, and compete with clarity and confidence.
Space is limited. Registration required.
👉 Register now to secure your spot.

SEO & Social Selling Webinar
2026-03-11 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
Promotional Video HERE
Overview of the Live Webinar
The following will be covered during this live webinar:
Power of SEO and social media for attracting customers, including local SEO to precisely target your market.
Website optimization for lead generation. How personas, message maps, and content calendars help to make your website and social media footprint more attractive when integrated.
Social selling as an amplifier of your existing sales and marketing strategy. Learn to build an omni channel presence and customer journey for faster wins.
What your digital channel strategy needs, to be effective in terms of content, technology and investment.
How to effectively use paid media and advertising. Cost savings of optimizing your website and SEO to maximize paid media spend and ROI.
Speaker: Hussain Shah, Subject Matter Expert – Digital Marketing, Mason SBDC & Timm Johnson – Director, Mason SBDC
Learn more at the link provided.

HERO Wednesday: The Resource War Room (PENINSULA)
2026-03-11 09:00 - 15:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Hampton Roads Veterans Employment Center (HRVEC), 861 Glenrock Rd, Norfolk, VA, United States
Housing/Healthcare/Education/DoD Skillbridge. No red tape. Direct access to the experts you need in one room.
One room. Every resource.
Connect directly with Housing, Healthcare & DoD Skillbridge/Education providers. Cut through the noise and get solutions.

HERO Wednesday: The Resource War Room (Norfolk)
2026-03-11 09:00 - 15:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | Hampton Roads Veterans Employment Center (HRVEC), 861 Glenrock Rd, Norfolk, VA, United States
Stop navigating alone. Get direct intel on Housing, Healthcare & Education/DoD Skillbridge. Skip the waitlists. The 757’s best resources.
Housing. Healthcare. Education/DoD Skillbridge. Zero red tape. Direct access to the experts you need in one room. Secure your family’s logistics now.

Lunch & Learn: AI & The Future of Workforce Development
2026-03-10 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | Virtual
The Virginia Tech Newport News Center will offer Virtual Quarterly Lunch & Learn Sessions in 2026! These sessions will be from noon-1 p.m. on Zoom and are free and open to the public.
AI & The Future Of Workforce Development led by Sarah Rodriguez, Associate Professor, Engineering Education at Virignia Tech. This Lunch & Learn explores how AI workforce development can better meet the needs of diverse learners, with a particular focus on the pivotal role higher education institutions play in opening doors to high‑demand technology fields. Grounded in research supported through a Microsoft AI Economy Institute Senior Fellowship, it examines emerging models such as micro-credentials, stackable certificates, and short‑cycle programs—alongside early evidence and student experiences—to show how institutions can build equitable on‑ramps to data, automation, and applied AI careers for a much broader population of learners.

Late Night Coders
2026-03-05 21:00 - 2026-03-06 00:00 (America/New_York) | Buffalo Wild Wings, 301 S Independence Blvd, Virginia Beach, VA, United States
Can’t sleep? Stay up all night coding? Or can’t make the usual meetups till the kids are in bed?
Late Night Coders is a meetup for the rest of us.
Let’s get together and share what we’re working on, co-work, or get help on any problems we’re running into. Some code challenge keeping you up? Bring it to us!
Anyone is welcome at any experience or sleep-deprivation level. Bring your laptop! Or just come hang out with cool people.

🧜‍♀️ AICHR | Build night
2026-03-05 18:30 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Assembly, 400 Granby St, Norfolk, VA, United States
🏗️ A space to build. A place to belong.
Build Night is a casual, high-energy working session in downtown Norfolk designed for builders, founders, creatives, technologists, and the AI-curious.
No panels. No long talks.
Just real people, real projects, and real momentum.
Ted Patterson will be hosting and facilitating the evening, making introductions, helping people find collaborators, and creating space for meaningful conversations and hands-on building.
🔧 What you can do at Build Night
Work on your startup idea
Vibe code with others and get live feedback
Build AI agents, automations, or no-code tools
Refine your portfolio
Talk through a career pivot into AI
Whether you are actively shipping something or just exploring your next move, this is your room.
⏰ Arrival details (IMPORTANT)
Ted or someone on the AICHR team will be downstairs to welcome everyone.
Doors will be open and we will be receiving guests from 6 PM to 6:30 PM.
After 6:35 PM, latecomers may not be able to access the building, so please plan to arrive within that 30-minute window.
Public parking is free for two hours, which makes it easy to drop in, plug in, and get to work.
Who this is for
Builders who want community while they create
Professionals exploring AI and automation
Students building their first portfolio pieces
Founders looking for feedback
You do not need to be an expert.
You just need to show up ready to build.
ℹ️ Other bits of info & FAQs
This is a free community event
Drinks or food are available for purchase depending on the venue
Photos or videos may be taken for community and marketing purposes
Come solo or bring a friend
​​​Is there free parking in the area? Yes. Parking is available along E. Main St and in downtown Norfolk for free after 6pm. If street parking isn’t available, parking will also be available at the Waterside garage and Fountain garages. To learn more, head on over to Downtown Norfolk’s parking & transportation page → https://www.downtownnorfolk.org/business/parking-and-transportation
​What the closest free parking garage to the event?
The Freemason Street Garage
​​​Will anything else be provided?
Some light snacks & drinks may be provided by AICHR
Yes, but space is limited. Make sure to RSVP.
​
🤝 Organizers & partners
​
Organizers
The AI Collective Hampton Roads
​Platinum partners
TechArk
Regent University
ECPI University
Hampton Roads Chamber Foundation
Bronze partners
Assembly
757 Collab
🌍 ​Our parent org
The AI Collective is a global non-profit community uniting 150,000+ pioneers – founders, researchers, operators, and investors – exploring the frontier of AI in major tech hubs worldwide. Through events, workshops, and community-led research, we empower the AI ecosystem to collaboratively steer AI’s future toward trust, openness, and human flourishing.
All attendees and organizers at events affiliated with The AI Collective agree to our privacy policy and are subject to our code of conduct. Additionally, by registering for this event, you agree to The AI Collective Hampton Roads chapter photo & video policy.

Breaking Down Barriers in Tech Employment
2026-03-05 17:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | Rivers Casino Portsmouth, 3630 Victory Blvd, Portsmouth, VA, United States
Attendees will leave with a clear understanding of both the opportunities and the obstacles in Hampton Roads’ tech landscape—recognizing that while pathways into tech are often perceived as gated behind degrees, years of experience, or security clearances, there are increasingly valid alternatives that reduce those barriers. They’ll learn how certifications, apprenticeships, transferable skills (including military experience), and structured support programs can open doors that traditional hiring practices may have previously closed. The event will also emphasize the importance of networking and relationship-building as tools to bypass rigid application filters, while highlighting real success stories that demonstrate how individuals have overcome these challenges and transitioned into meaningful tech careers. Ultimately, attendees will leave feeling empowered with actionable knowledge and the reassurance that the region is actively working to remove systemic barriers and create a more inclusive, accessible tech community.
Breaking Down Barriers in Tech Employment brings together business leaders, hiring managers, technologists, and community advocates for a powerful evening centered on expanding access, opportunity, and diversity in the tech workforce.
The event features:
A professional networking hour with drinks and hors d’oeuvres
Action-focused dialogue around inclusion, recruitment, and workforce development
A moderated panel discussion featuring regional tech and economic development leaders including:
Panelists:
Shawn Avery, President & CEO, Hampton Roads Workforce Council
Johnny Garcia, Ph.D. Chief Executive Officer, SimIS, Inc.
Kasia Grzelkowski, President & CEO, VersAbility Resources
Moderator:
Blair Durham, Co-Founder/CEO, Black BRAND
Emcee
Francesca Garcia Moncion, Board Member, Hispanic Chamber of Coastal Virginia

Attire: Business attire is recommended

EDA Small Business Grant & Loan Information Session (Virtual & In-Person)
2026-03-05 13:00 - 15:00 (Africa/Abidjan) | 739 High St, 739 High St, Portsmouth, VA, United States
Get ready for the EDA Small Business Grant & Loan Information Session where we’ll help you grow your business with funding opportunities.
EDA Small Business Investment Grants Information Session (In-Person & Virtual)
Join us for an exciting event aimed at helping small businesses thrive! The EDA Small Business Grant & Loan Information Session is a fantastic opportunity for entrepreneurs like you to take your business to the next level. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand, this event is packed with valuable insights and resources to fuel your success.
Date: Tuesday,March 3, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: Bloom Coworking; 739 High Street, Portsmouth, VA 23704
At this in-person and virtual event, you’ll have the chance to learn about the application requirements and the allowable use of funds for the EDA Small Business Investment Grants & EDA Small Business Revolving Loan Fund. Representatives from the City of Portsmouth Economic Development, the Zoning Department, the Permit Department and the Commissioner of the Revenue will provide details on how to apply for a license, zoning ordinances, and educate you on permit requirements for the grant application. Bridging Virginia will provide details about the loan application qualifications and process.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to learn, grow, and secure the grant funding you need to succeed. Register now to secure your spot at the Small Business Grant & Loan Information Session!
