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The organizations behind the work.
The 1717 Collective is a coalition of Greater Richmond organizations that each bring something different to the table. Together they cover funding, mentorship, training, advocacy, and connections across the business ecosystem in Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, and Richmond.
“We empower businesses and professionals to be successful.”
Advocacy, procurement support, and business development for minority-owned enterprises across the Greater Richmond region.
Mission from Metropolitan Business League
“Supporting Black business owners in Richmond to build thriving, sustainable businesses.”
Funding and hands-on business support for Black-led and community-rooted entrepreneurs across Greater Richmond.
Mission from The JWC Foundation
“Bridging Virginia, a community development financial institution (CDFI), is proud to provide access to affordable capital and technical assistance for historically marginalized small businesses and places.”
Small business loans paired with hands-on financial coaching for Richmond-area entrepreneurs who cannot access traditional bank financing. Bridging Virginia combines capital with practical planning and cash-flow guidance.
Mission from Bridging Virginia
“By caring deeply, providing direct-but-kind advice, and believing in our clients, we push our clients' businesses to change their communities for the better.”
No-cost consulting and training for small businesses at every stage, backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Mission from Capital Region SBDC
“We are the region's only nonprofit organization serving startup founders, entrepreneurs, and innovators at any stage, at any time.”
Accelerator programs, mentorship, and workspace for early-stage startups building scalable businesses.
Mission from Startup Virginia
“Startups are hard. Most accelerators focus purely on the business mechanics like growth, metrics, and fundraising. While those matter, we believe the biggest constraint on a company's growth is often the founder's own capacity to lead.”
Long-term founder support combining capital access, leadership development, and a peer community for early-stage startups.
Mission from Lighthouse Network
“RICHRVA partners with organizations and individuals committed to supporting our mission of narrowing wealth gaps for small businesses owned by people of color in our region.”
A Richmond small business ecosystem hub connecting entrepreneurs to funding, technical assistance, and networking across the region’s partner organizations.
Mission from RichRVA
Made Possible By
Funding partners.
The commitment of these organizations is making this collective impact work possible.
