In October 2021, the Town of Scottsville received a Community Business Launch (CBL) grant, totaling $40,000, from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).

In partnership with the Community Investment Collaborative (CIC), the Town of Scottsville hosted an eight-week workshop series followed by a business plan pitch competition, focused on downtown Scottsville. The town recently completed an assessment of its retail and housing market, identifying several retail business categories with opportunity for growth, such as restaurants, general merchandise, grocery and specialty retail. At completion, the project aimed to create or expand three businesses and create at least five jobs.

Of the entrepreneurs that pitched their business ideas to a team of local judges, four were awarded grant funds to kickstart and/or expand their businesses! Teri Butler received $15,000 to help open her bridal boutique, William Anderson received $15,000 towards launching his private security company, Beth Gunnell received $5,000 to support her idea for a women’s clothing store and Lu Hicks received $5,000 to help grow her new restaurant. In the coming weeks, local residents and visitors alike are encouraged to keep an eye out for these new businesses in downtown Scottsville!

Image Credit (Scottsville Logo): Town of Scottsville