There is a very identifiable reason why Norfolk has been recognized as one of the top cities a young professional should move to, work in, and even start a business in, and it is the quality that we spelled out at the beginning of this section:
Right now, at this moment in Norfolk’s history and development, one can make a distinct and sizeable impact with their work.
In other words, Norfolk is a place where you can truly make your own future. Hampton Roads, in its entirety, is about the 36th largest metropolitan area in the country–it is a huge market that is growing and, in fact, survived the economic downturn with ease (chalk that up to the stabilizing force of the military and government presence). And yet, competition in most areas of industry here is still scarce. Young architects, designers, chefs, tradespeople, retailers and builders are realizing quickly that Norfolk is a place where one can make a name for themselves in short order. (In fact, it’s a secret many would probably not like us to share, but there it is.)
And much of the tools for launching a small business in Norfolk are already there. Here are the best places to start:
The City of Norfolk Department of Development
And then of course, there’s Norfolk’s Development Department, which provides numerous resources on how to start a business in Norfolk (including this site!).
Their address:
Department of Development
500 East Main Street, Suite 1500
Norfolk, Virginia 23510
(757) 664-4338
Ask for Carla. Tell her you want to be a Norfologist. She’ll hook you up.
The Small Business Association
They give you the entire toolbox. Don’t even think about starting up a business without checking out their resources first.
This small business planner, for instance, helps you manage your business from start to finish. It includes every possible thing you can think of–writing a business plan; acquiring the proper licenses, trademarks and copyrights; financing your business…everything.
Beyond that, this PDF compiles some of the most important links to information and resources offered by the SBA.
Hands down, the Small Business Association needs to be your new best friend.
Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce
Another important organization you have in your corner is the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce. Click here to find out all that they offer small businesses in terms of help and education. Most significant are their business education series and the Small Business Development Center of Hampton Roads, which offers free counseling to small companies (and there ain’t nothing better than getting help for free, am I right?).
Virginia Small Business Financing Authority
A wise man once said, “Cash Rules Everything Around Me,” and I don’t think anyone really disagrees. The Virginia Small Business Financing Authority (VSBFA), which is housed within the Virginia Department of Business Assistance, offers programs to provide businesses and communities with access to capital needed for economic growth and expansion.