About Location Lovingston

Nelson County is using state and federal grant funds (Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development) to launch a Community Business Launch program to support business growth in vacant spaces in the village of Lovingston.

This is a free business training program designed to provide a base of business fundamentals to individuals looking to start or expand a business in Lovingston. Following the completion of the eight-week program, selected individuals will be invited to compete for up to $15,000 in startup grants.

The program is open to all entrepreneurs. Nelson County residency is not required and U.S. Citizenship is not required. Nelson County is committed to equal opportunity for all.

Business Essentials Training and Certificate

The Central Virginia SBDC Business Essentials Training (BET) program offers a robust series for new founders and those with growing businesses.  The programming provides for entrepreneurs to launch with confidence or conduct a “Business Health Check” as a foundation for expansion or growth.

Piedmont Pitch participants can earn the Business Essentials Certificate by attending the training sessions, completing homework, and meeting with a SBDC Advisor. These requirements work in tandem with the program to prepare a winning pitch.

Learn more about the Business Essentials Training program and certificate

Location Lovingston Schedule

Application deadline: Mar 15

Location Lovingston Launch: Apr 4, 1:00-3:00pm

Starting Your Business: Apr 11, 1:00-3:00pm

BET 1, Understanding Your Customers and Market: Apr 18, 1:00-3:00pm

BET 2, Pricing, Costs, and Launch Preparation: Apr 25, 1:00-3:00pm

BET 3, Marketing, Sales, and Your Brand: May 2, 1:00-3:00pm

BET 4, Planning for Success: May 9, 1:00-3:00pm

BET 5, Money and Recordkeeping: May 16, 1:00-3:00pm

Pitch Preparation Workshop: May 23, 1:00-3:00pm

Location Lovingston Pitch Competition: June 6

All Location Lovingston sessions will be offered as hybrid events:

In person at the Nelson Center, 8445 Thomas Nelson Highway, Lovingston  or online via Zoom

How to Participate in Location Lovingston

Who is eligible to participate?

Existing small businesses or new start-ups opening in the Village of Lovingston.

How to apply

The Location Lovingston application can be found here

How much prize money is available?

Graduates of the Location Lovingston program have the opportunity to pitch for $40,000 in prizes.

Additional information can be found on the Nelson County website

Questions about Location Lovingston can be sent to events@cvsbdc.org or 434-295-8198