Business Resources

Small Business Development Center

The Laurel Ridge Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers free counseling and advice for those looking to start a business or seeking assistance for an existing business. The SBDC can help with everything from reviewing your business plan, analyzing your finances, seeking potential funding sources, tips on websites, marketing, and more. They also offer a variety of in-person and virtual trainings and webinars. A complete list of upcoming trainings and recorded webinars can be found on their website.

Shenandoah Community Capital Fund

The Shenandoah Community Capital Fund (SCCF) offers support and resources for entrepreneurs ranging from financing to networking. SCCF offers a variety of programs, networking events, and workshops throughout the year designed to grow your business, start a new one, or simply connect with other business owners in the Shenandoah Valley.

Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce

The Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce offers a great opportunity to connect with other local businesses and stay on top of the latest offerings including workshops and trainings, policies impacting local business, and more. With smaller groups such as the Non-profit Council, Home Based Business Council, Women's Business Council, Hispanic Advisory Council, Strasburg Business Alliance, and more, you'll find opportunities to connect with other similar businesses to share best practices and make referrals.

SCORE (Blue Ridge Chapter) 

SCORE is a nationwide nonprofit dedicated to helping small businesses grow and succeed through free, confidential mentoring and education. The SCORE Blue Ridge Chapter serves our region with a team of experienced volunteer mentors who provide guidance on everything from business planning and marketing to financial management and growth strategies. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business, SCORE offers workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and online resources tailored to your needs. Connect with the Blue Ridge Chapter to tap into expert support and move your business forward. SCORE offers help for both for-profit and non-profits.  

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) offers a range of services to help serve the local business community. Their team can offer data such as salary studies by industry, workforce development connections, programs to help scale up your business or embark on international trade, and a range of grants to help you expand your business.

RevUp ShenCo. 

Each year, Shenandoah County, in partnership with the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce (and local towns), holds a one-day, educational business conference. This conference is aimed at helping new and established businesses grow and thrive. Information and registration details can be found on the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce site. Additionally, grant opportunities will be available to participating businesses who attend RevUp ShenCo. 

Financial Resources

U.S. Small Business Administration

  • 7(a) Loan Program
  • SBAExpress
  • CommunityExpress Pilot Loan Program
  • Microloan Program
  • Export Trade Financing
  • Certified Development Company Loans

Visit the U.S. Small Business Administration website. View a list of SBA lenders serving Virginia businesses.

Economic Development Authority of Shenandoah County

  • Private Activity Bonds
  • RBEG Small Business Loans
    • $5,000-$50,000 available to small businesses located or operating in Shenandoah County
    • Must have less than 50 employees and generate less than $1 million in annual revenues to qualify.

For more information on programs available through the Economic Development Authority email Jenna French, Director of Tourism and Economic Development, or call 540-459-1822 or download a copy of the application. 

Virginia Small Business Financing Authority

Visit the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority website or call 866-248-8814.

Services Provided:

  • Economic Development Loan Fund
  • Private Activity Bonds
  • Loan Guaranty Program
  • Capital Access Programs
  • Child Care Financing Program
  • Financing Assistance for Minority-owned Businesses

Virginia C-PACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy)

C-Pace is an innovative clean energy financing tool that provides 100% upfront capital to property owners who want to upgrade their buildings with energy efficiency, renewable energy, and water management systems. Learn more by visiting the Virginia C-PACE website.

Tourism Development Zones

View the Tourism Development Zone Incentive Guidelines and Application (PDF). Incentives may be offered to tourism-related businesses locating or expanding in the county. Businesses such as retail, dining, lodging, culture and arts, entertainment, and experiential services can qualify for a reduction of personal property tax, real estate tax, and/or Transient Occupancy Tax for up to 5 years based on investment and revenues generated over that same time period. Other incentives include the potential for free chamber membership for 1 year and a free ad in the Shenandoah County Visitor Guide. The extent of incentives offered by the County is dependent upon the capital investment to the property, the number of jobs created, and current product offering versus identified gaps in our business community.

Applicants must have a minimum $15,000 capital investment (contact for more information) over 3 years to be applicable for consideration.

For more information, contact 540-459-1822.

People Incorporated

Business Development Manager

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Businesses engaged in agricultural production or processing may find a variety of resources available through the Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (VDACS). Services include marketing, grants, inspection, and more. Available grants include:

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

Virginia’s incentive programs reduce the costs of opening or expanding a business facility, and we work enthusiastically to assist employers who choose to put down roots and grow in the Commonwealth. We view incentives as an investment in Virginia’s economic future and a business opportunity for both the Commonwealth and the company.