Author: Department of Housing and Community Development

Accelerators: Taking Businesses to the Next Level

September 19, 2018

There is much confusion about the difference between incubators and accelerators, as the prevalence of both types of spaces has dramatically increased over the past 10 years. While both may provide entrepreneurs with similar services such as office space, capital, mentorship and other resources, there are several differences between the two. Incubators generally do not … More Accelerators: Taking Businesses to the Next Level

Incubators: Hatching Ideas into Businesses

August 13, 2018

Many new entrepreneurs find the process of growing their business as a lonely trek that takes more work than anticipated. Over the past few years, business incubators have helped these entrepreneurs grow and scale their businesses by providing support such as office space, training, mentorship, networking and even financing, in some cases. Incubators can be … More Incubators: Hatching Ideas into Businesses

Experiences that Bring Customers Back!

August 2, 2018

We’ve heard from several communities across the commonwealth that improving downtown hospitality is a high priority in making their downtowns a destination! With help from the Virginia Tourism Corporation, DHCD has put together a series of 20 workshops across the state called Delivering Memorable Experiences Downtown, which aims to strengthen business hospitality to provide an … More Experiences that Bring Customers Back!

What’s in a Name? The Different Types of Shared Work Spaces

July 13, 2018

We’ve all heard buzzwords such as incubators, co-working spaces and maker spaces. As the number of people working in the “gig” economy continues to grow, so will the places that support that industry. But what’s the difference in these spaces, and what do they provide not only to the entrepreneurs that use them, but the … More What’s in a Name? The Different Types of Shared Work Spaces

Welcome to Downtown Harrisonburg!

July 3, 2018

Guest Blogger Andrea Dono, executive director of Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance, has extensive experience in Main Street revitalization and community-based economic development, including 10 years at the National Main Street Center.  Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance is thrilled to co-host the Virginia Main Street Downtown Intersections, July 16-18, 2018, and welcome you to our community in just a … More Welcome to Downtown Harrisonburg!

Bricks & Clicks Make Businesses Stronger Destinations

June 4, 2018

On May 2, during National Small Business Week, the city of Harrisonburg  awarded $36,700 in grants to small businesses in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County.  Grant awards range from $1,200 to $4,900 and are the final portion of a three-pronged small business assistance program called Bricks & Clicks, which was designed to help businesses become stronger … More Bricks & Clicks Make Businesses Stronger Destinations

Downtown Intersections At-A-Glance Agenda

April 30, 2018

  Register now to attend Downtown Intersections, presented by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development’s Virginia Main Street Program, in partnership with Harrisonburg Downtown Renaissance. This event promises a packed schedule full of sessions spanning topics geared toward organization and promotions, as well as a Main Street Essentials track. There will be real-life examples from communities … More Downtown Intersections At-A-Glance Agenda