We recently wrote about four great online tools that business owners can benefit from. But, in Lynchburg, VA, there are many programs and initiatives designed specifically to help your business succeed at no cost.
1. Free Business Counseling
The Region 2000 Small Business Development Centre and Greater Lynchburg SCORE are two local organizations that offer free business counseling and training sessions. Whether in one-on-one meetings or in-group workshops, these free instructional services will help you think about your business in a more strategic way. Seasoned business consultants will guide you through the process of building a business plan to get your new business off the ground, or to help you realign your business in a strategic way.
Similarly, the Lynchburg Business Development Centre offers counseling and financing opportunities, as well as a business incubator program. Local businesses have access to professional facilities, administrative services and professional assistance.
2. Adult Education Offerings
Do you have any non-native English speakers working at your company interested in improving their communication skills? ACE of Central Virginia offers free, open-invitation English as a second language (ESL) classes to adult residents in Lynchburg and Bedford.
Even if a foreign language is commonly spoken at your company, ESL employees can benefit from strengthening their language skills. It will also allow them to feel more comfortable in Lynchburg and be able to strengthen their ties to the local community.
3. Free Exercise
Exercise is one proven way to improve mental clarity, confidence, focus and productivity in the workplace. In Lynchburg there are plenty of stunning local trails for hiking, biking, running and walking. Named one of the nation’s top 100 Adventure Towns by National Geographic magazine, Lynchburg has beautifully-maintained parks where your team can appreciate nature and unwind. Getting involved in free local activities are a great way for your employees to make friends and explore new areas in the city.
Every Tuesday evening, Riverside Runners on Rivermont Ave. hosts a Fun Run. Runners and walkers of all abilities are encouraged to join! Similarly, the Lynchburg Parks and Recreation team also hosts weekly free open-air yoga in Riverside Park with Yoga Goodness Studio teachers at 9:30 a.m. on Saturdays.
4. City of Lynchburg Open Data Portal
In order to make access to important information efficient and transparent, the City of Lynchburg created the Open Data Portal. This on-page resource is a great place for business owners and entrepreneurs to access datasheets regarding permits, licenses, zoning, real estate parcels, development projects, historic districts, crime stats and more.
5. Lynchburg Alerts
Sign up for the Lynchburg Alert Notification Program for information on important local news and emergency occurrences. Find out about building and neighborhood evacuations, severe weather, road closings, missing persons and more via phone, text or email. Managers can use this program to help make work-related decisions quickly and inform employees of any local news that may affect their work.
6. Opportunity Lynchburg
We’re here to help your business grow. You can access helpful resources on this site, including ebooks, blogs, a site selection portal and more. Request a meeting with one of our Office of Economic Development employees, or stay in the loop with local business news by signing up for our newsletter: