Lynchburg, Va. – The Downtown Lynchburg Association (DLA) has announced the return of Launch LYH, a program aimed at revitalizing the heart of Lynchburg by supporting entrepreneurs eager to start, relocate, or expand their businesses in the downtown area. The 2025 iteration of the program will distribute $100,000 in grant funding among the winners, marking the third and final year of the initiative.
Since its inception, Launch LYH has introduced 15 businesses to Downtown Lynchburg and invested $335,000 in small business owners. The 2023 cohort included businesses such as Wolfbane Productions and Super Rad!, while the 2024 round brought Hunny B’s and The Yard on 5th Street, among others, such as Firebrick Pottery and Squared Biscuit Company, which are set to open in 2025.
Recommended Videos
How to Apply
Applications for the 2025 program are open on the Downtown Lynchburg Association’s website and will close on Jan. 31, 2025, at 11:30 p.m. Interested entrepreneurs can visit their website to submit their applications.
Applicants will be notified of potential acceptance by Feb. 21, 2025. Selected participants will enroll in an eight-week business development course led by the Small Business Development Center – Lynchburg Region.
Participants will attend a weekly class, which will culminate in a pitch night, where participants will present their business plans to a panel of judges. Winners will receive $20,000 in grant funding based on their scores, business needs, and growth potential.
The program is supported by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development, the Small Business Development Center – Lynchburg Region, and the Greater Lynchburg Community Foundation.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available.
For updates on the Launch LYH program, follow the Downtown Lynchburg Association on social media or sign up for their newsletter.
About Downtown Lynchburg Association
The Downtown Lynchburg Association is an accredited program of the Virginia Main Street and the National Main Street Center™, and a member of the International Downtown Association. For over 25 years, the organization has worked with the City of Lynchburg to sustain and develop downtown as a vital economic, cultural, recreational, residential, and historic center.
About Community Business Launch
The Community Business Launch is a place-based entrepreneurial development strategy that aims to fill vacant storefronts with new ventures. Local programs train entrepreneurs and small business owners in business planning, culminating in a pitch to judges, with winners receiving grant funding and community support.