About OC Innovates
To inspire economic development and job creation in the area, Orange County Economic Development is proud to present OC Innovates in partnership with the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center. Participants will attend valuable workshops and work with a CV SBDC business advisor to craft their business plan, which will be submitted for consideration in the final pitch competition.
Competitors will:
- Register by 5:00 pm on Friday, February 27, 2026.
- Attend five required business development courses, Thursday evenings, time TBA
- Develop and submit a detailed business plan for scoring
- Meet with experienced advisors from Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC)
- Pitch finalists must attend a pitch preparation class
- Finalists will compete at the live pitch competition on Wednesday, May 6th at the Orange County Public Safety Building.
OC Innovates will award up to $13,000 in cash prizes for start-up and existing businesses looking to expand with additional job creation in Orange County, Virginia.
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.
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
Additional questions can be sent to iginger@orangecountyva.gov.