City of Winchester Economic Development Authority

Did you know that the EDA has a wide array of incentives available to local Winchester City businesses? Hear from Gillian Greenfield, a property owner who recently took advantage of one of these incentives. “I was enthusiastic to improve the condition of the property as soon as I purchased it in August of 2023 and this grant made that sizable investment possible… I hope the example of my renovation to this historically derelict property, in large part thanks to grant programs like this one, will encourage other property owners to make the same enhancements to downtown Winchester.” Now home of Dawn Earles Design Studio, 40-44 E Picadilly Street, projects like these follow the EDA’s goal of adaptive re-use of underutilized property to spur economic growth. See before and after photos below! To learn more about incentives, reach out to [email protected] or visit https://lnkd.in/epG68EAp

It's hard to believe it's been nearly 6 years since husband and wife Mike and Davanna Black bought Blue Collar Mercantile Workingman's Store which has been a fixture of Winchester since 1933. They have done amazing things around the store to make it a place that has "Everything You're Looking For." The duo has a close eye on the building's history and big ideas for it's future. One restorative project included converting an old grain chute from the building's livestock days into a chandelier. Because every shoe needs a leg, it features antique shoe molds and table legs found during the couples' renovations. There is something for everyone in this unique shop. Be sure to stop by and see for yourself!

Attention all small and mid-size manufacturers: Virginia Economic Development Partnership wants you to be aware of an energy grant available to YOU! The US DOE has $80M in funding available to award grants of up to $300,000 per grant. The grant is intended to address energy assessment recommendations by Industrial Training and Assessment Centers (ITACs) such as the Genedge Alliance, DOE Combined Heat and Power/Onsite Energy Technical Assistance Partnerships, or other third-party assessors. Check the comments for links to see frequently asked questions and the most recent VEDP Webinar.

When you buy from a small business, an actual person does a little happy dance!?? WINdependent Weekend is happening November 29-December 1. It's your chance to support local businesses during Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.?? Every small purchase makes a big difference. Let's all make a big difference this holiday shopping season by putting our money where our heart is.?? Look at the attached flyer to view deals and promotions from participating businesses. Contact businesses and check out our event page on Facebook for more information!

Virginia Economic Development Partnership has partnered with Virginia Works and THE VIRGINIA CHAMBER FOUNDATION to host an interactive, employer-focused webinar on Registered Apprenticeship during National Apprenticeship Week November 17-23. When: Wednesday, November 20th, from 12-1 pm The presentation will cover the basics of Registered Apprenticeship in Virginia, the growth of apprenticeship in workforce development, and how apprenticeship could help your company address talent needs. Sharing success stories and new models of apprenticeship, and hear from business leaders who have incorporated apprenticeship into their talent strategy. Registration is required. Please register in the link below. We hope you can join the event on the 20th and wish you happy National Apprenticeship Week! https://lnkd.in/euvkZQYq

Congratulations to David Gum and White House Foods on their selection as one of this year’s Virginia 500: The 2024-25 Power List under the agriculture category! With a strong heritage and generations of traditions, White House Foods is a family-owned company. They’ve been processing apples and making quality apple products since 1908. As one of Winchester’s largest manufactures, White House Foods is an integral part of the community. Congratulations and can’t wait to see what’s in store for generations to come! https://lnkd.in/eutdQDRH

Let’s give a warm welcome to our new hire, Bethany Melvin. Bethany is joining the EDA as our Marketing & Outreach Assistant. She comes to us with a degree in Media & Communication which she earned from Shenandoah University. In her free time Bethany enjoys reading, crocheting, promoting her small business, being with her family, and playing with her dog Maisy. She is a Winchester native and loves engaging with her community. Bethany is eager to join our team and can’t wait to see you all in the community!

Join us in welcoming AXYS to #WinchesterVA as they advance technology services in the area. “We are very excited to welcome AXYS to Winchester. Their commitment to our community affirms that our vision for success is working,” said Jeff Buettner, Executive Director City Winchester Economic Development Authority. https://lnkd.in/eZQtjhJC

The U.S. Dept. of the Treasury in conjunction with Shenandoah University is hosting a Small Business Summit on Tuesday, September 24 from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. This free event will bring over 200 small and veteran-owned businesses to Shenandoah’s main campus. Our own Executive Director, Jeff Buettner, will discuss small business and the local economy. Register to learn more information about resources and opportunities to thrive locally: https://lnkd.in/eJaH-q2G

Finding high quality, affordable childcare is an increasing concern for many families in our region. We attended an informative seminar at the Laurel Ridge Small Business Development Center featuring Tiarra Dawson, owner of Tee Spot childcare and learning center, Ryan Hall with the City of Winchester EDA and Shenandoah Community Capital Fund, Misty Jewell with the VA Childcare Program, Leslie Currle with People Incorporated of Virginia, and Karen White from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA). Presenters spoke on a variety of topics, including how to start and expand a childcare business, how and where to secure financing. and more. If you're an employer or an individual looking to open your own childcare center and have questions about financing, contact Karen White: (804) 371-8197 or [email protected].