BLK RVA
BLK RVA is an initiative of Richmond Region Tourism. This campaign was created to highlight and celebrate the Black cultural experience in the Richmond Region. Black community, Black business, and Black culture continue to flourish in this region, making it more vibrant than ever before.
InUnison collaborates closely with BLK RVA to uplift and empower black-owned businesses in Richmond, Virginia. By enhancing their presence on the Find Local map, providing essential business resources, and fostering connections within a dynamic network of locally owned enterprises, we aim to provide invaluable support for the prosperity of our black-owned businesses. Notably, in 2023, InUnison and BLK RVA joined forces to grant premium membership scholarships to two deserving BLK RVA businesses.
Bridging Virginia
Bridging Virginia aims to increase inclusive economic opportunities by supporting organizations with flexible solutions, affordable capital, and technical assistance.
Bridging Virginia was formed in 2020 as an effort to support Black, women, and minority-owned small businesses that had been disproportionately hurt by the economic impact of coronavirus (COVID-19). Soon after starting, the team recognized a more permanent need for access to affordable capital and services for small businesses in historically marginalized communities.
The Jackson Ward Collective Foundation
The JWC Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to the support of education and growth of Black business owners in the Richmond, Virginia region. We are a Hub for Black Business Owners who are aligned with our mission to Learn, Grow and Own in the Black community by leveraging our collective networks, resources and information to build sustainable Black owned businesses.
They offer the following programs:
- JWC Community Business Academy
- Summary: A 12-week cohort with hands-on training to strengthen business fundamentals (ex: bookkeeping, budgeting, marketing, financing & more!)
- Ideal Participant: Strong business idea and/or been in business for 1-2 years max
- Cost: $100-$250 program fee (sliding scale, based on income)
- Jackson Ward Collective ®
- Summary: Hub for Black business owners. Offerings include Social and Networking events, Access to Resources, Black Ribbon Cuttings for brick & mortar openings, and more!
- Ideal Participant: Any current or aspiring Black business owner in the Richmond, Virginia region.
- Cost: Free
- BLCK Street ® Conference
- Summary: Destination conference event for current and aspiring Black business owners to connect and learn from those who have, “been there and spent that ” in a safe, communal, and culturally relevant environment.
- Ideal Participant: Black entrepreneurs from around the U.S. of all stages, with a specific focus on non-tech-based business owners.
Richmond Region Tourism
As the premier destination organization for the region, they are seasoned experts with a profound affection for the community where we live, work, and play.
Their mission is to enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike, passionately sharing the distinctive culture and humanity that define the Richmond Region.
In the pursuit of economic prosperity, they play a pivotal role in tourism by attracting conventions, meetings, sports tournaments, and visitors, ensuring that each person enjoys an unforgettable experience.
Furthermore, they actively contribute to enhancing the overall quality of life for our community members by supporting and championing the places that contribute to the charm of the Richmond Region.
Their commitment to strengthening local programs that drive tourism is evident through their Richmond Region Tourism Foundation, reinforcing their dedication to the sustained growth and vitality of the region.
Startup Virginia
Startup Virginia supports startups and innovators with an engaged community, holistic programs, targeted resources, and dynamic workspace to help them reach their full potential and positively impact Virginia’s economic landscape.
Startup Virginia (SVA) is a nonprofit high-growth business incubator and entrepreneurial hub where innovators can learn, collaborate, and grow. The incubator serves startup companies that are supported by an expansive network of mentors, investors, corporate partners, and donors. SVA provides holistic programming and dynamic workspace to its member community, as well as free entrepreneurial education that is open to all. By helping entrepreneurs reach their full potential, the organization is driving innovation and strengthening the region’s economy.
