As 2021 begins, business owners face a rapidly shifting landscape. But business is different, and the way many business owners operate is different too. We all know our small businesses need a lot of help to make it through the pandemic. AdThat’s why Patterson’s focus is supporting local entrepreneurs starting and building their businesses through the Gauntlet Business program and competition. “We have to put our money where our mouth is and support our local businesses,” Patterson said.

ROANOKE, Va. – As more people look for ways to support local businesses, there’s a new initiative that aims to make that easier. Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce is launching a new directory to highlight minority and women-owned businesses. “If someone is looking for like a contractor, or a cake maker or whatever, they will have an easier time locating those folks,” Roanoke Regional Chamber President and CEO Joyce Waugh said. “My hope is that the Roanoke Chamber of Commerce will find grass root organizations and lead this to be a bigger and better operation,” she added. The online directory will be available on the chamber’s website by March.

ROANOKE, Va. – In an effort to highlight Black-owned businesses, the NRF Foundation and Qurate Retail Group is teaming up to showcase these business-owners and their products on QVC, HSN, Zulily and several other brands. She’s International Boutique in Roanoke was one of 20 chosen. Now, she owns her own small business and has used the events of 9/11 to shape how she lives her life and runs her business. Her business, She’s International Boutique, is one of twenty Black-owned businesses chosen to showcase their work on QVC and HSN. Speaks says she is excited to showcase her business and is honored to be provided such a large platform, especially after months of slower business due to the coronavirus pandemic.

VINTON, Va. – The Roanoke Valley’s own The Gauntlet celebrated the end of its fifth season Thursday night. Entrepreneurs once again competed in Virginia's largest business growth competition. They were recognized for their hard work and growth over the last few months at the Vinton War Memorial. The Advancement Foundation is behind the program and said as the program continues to grow, so do the opportunities for businesses right here at home. We want to keep our talent here," Advancement Foundation President Annette Patterson said.

COVINGTON – To build up small businesses in local rural communities, Gov. Ralph Northam on Wednesday announced that $180,000 will be given to five localities to help train and provide seed money for local entrepreneurs. "People need to realize that it is the small businesses, the small startups that are the backbone of our economy,” Northam said. The goal of the grant is to help local entrepreneurs in rural communities build up business and help revive the local economy. “Anything I can do to help rural Virginia, I'll do and it starts with small businesses."

ROANOKE, VA (WSLS10) A non-profit in the town of Vinton is working to create an environment for small businesses to thrive. Workers at the Advancement Foundation are helping business owners build a solid plan so they can start their own business. "It makes me feel great to know that it's there but I would have liked to have known about it a long time ago," Habibah Yasin, the owner of Black Diamond Beauty Salon said. They help entrepreneurs by linking them up with small business owners who can mentor them to make sure they are on the right track. “Research shows that small business failure is common but businesses that come through a business incubator are about 87% successful which is unbelievable,” Annette Patterson, the president of the Advancement Foundation said.