A decade to ignite entrepreneurship, the gauntlet business competition begins in year 10

If you have an idea to start a business or want to expand an idea you already have, now is the time.

The Advancement Foundation is celebrating 10 years of igniting entrepreneurship in Southwest Virginia as it enters its 10th year of The Gauntlet business competition and program. The program will build a network of over 1,000 Gauntlet alumni/entrepreneurs, 300 industry experts who will serve as mentors, and over $7 million to drive business development and innovation to entrepreneurs and the community. We have provided resources.

Each year, local entrepreneurs are drawn to the opportunity to compete for prizes, but they share that at the end of the program, those prizes become secondary to the network of relationships they’ve built. The program connects participants within and outside the industry, transcending local and regional boundaries. Communities that participate in the Gauntlet program increase visibility and forge deeper bonds with community stakeholders, higher education, ecosystem partners, business leaders, and entrepreneurs.

“The Gauntlet is the intersection where diverse resources and entrepreneurship meet,” said Advancement Foundation President Annette Patterson.

“The Advancement Foundation is using this proven business acceleration model to ensure all communities have equal access to critical resources. This collaborative platform includes business resource agencies, community leaders, mentors, and industry leaders. experts,” Patterson said.

The gauntlet includes stakeholders from the Allegany Highlands, Roanoke Valley, New River Valley, Shenandoah Valley, Southside, and Southwest Virginia to create a strong mentor network by implementing the Advancement Foundation’s proven model. Build and accelerate business growth and development.

Applications are currently being accepted for the Class of 2024. Anyone can choose to join the program and compete..

Virtual classes begin and will be held on Tuesday, January 30th From 6pm to 7:30pm. The course is 10 weeks long.

Please apply here.