Virginia Beach has emerged as a beacon for entrepreneurs, offering a wealth of resources and earning national accolades for its dynamic small business environment.
Comprehensive Support for Entrepreneurs
The city provides a suite of programs designed to nurture and accelerate business growth:
The HIVE: A Hub for Innovation
Located in the Town Center, The HIVE serves as a central resource for startups and growing businesses. Entrepreneurs can access free one-on-one counseling, private conference rooms, high-speed Wi-Fi, and participate in workshops and business forums. The facility also offers assistance with business plan development, licensing, permitting, and financial guidance. Learn more about The HIVE.
Thrive @ The HIVE Program
To further support local entrepreneurs, the city launched the Thrive @ The HIVE initiative. This program offers eligible Virginia Beach startups, home-based businesses, and military spouse entrepreneurs free workspace at The HIVE for two business days a week over a two-month period, along with access to all available resources. Discover Thrive @ The HIVE.
Small Business Grant Programs
The Virginia Beach Development Authority (VBDA) has been proactive in supporting small businesses through various grant programs. In January 2025, the VBDA awarded over $136,000 in Small Business Grants to 16 local businesses, providing up to $10,000 each to help them expand and drive economic growth. Additionally, the Façade Improvement Grant program has awarded nearly $700,000 to 94 small businesses since its inception, encouraging exterior upgrades and enhancing the city’s commercial appeal. Read about the Small Business Grants and Façade Improvement Grants.
National Recognition
Reflecting its strong commitment to entrepreneurship and innovation, Virginia Beach was named the third top city for small business in the nation by the Diverse Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2026. This recognition underscores the city’s efforts to create a supportive environment where small businesses can thrive. Learn more about this accolade.
For entrepreneurs seeking a supportive community with ample resources, Virginia Beach stands out as a prime destination to launch and grow a business.