The AFCEA Rockbridge Shenandoah Chapter and the Chamber of Commerce Serving Lexington, Buena Vista, and Rockbridge County are sponsoring a Business Innovation and Funding Forum on Jan. 15 The forum will run from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Rockbridge Innovation Center’s community room at Rockbridge County High School.
This free event is open to local businesses, academic institutions, and nonprofit organizations eager to jumpstart their activities in 2026. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with peers, learn from industry experts, and explore new avenues for growth and collaboration. Space is limited, and registration is required.
The evening will feature a panel of speakers who will share insights on funding resources, grant opportunities, workforce development, and internships. Special attention will be given to how artificial intelligence can support grant response applications.
Panelists include Lee Harris, Virginia Mechanical Preservation Society, sharing real-world experience with grant funding; Ryan Hall, Shenandoah Community Capital Fund, discussing microloans, SV Angel Investors, S2V business accelerator, and the Shenandoah Valley Tech Council; Elizabeth Goodloe, Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission, offering support for grant identification and development; and Chuck Kirby, Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, moderator and expert on grants and SBIR programs.
Light refreshments will be provided.
To reserve a spot, register at https://business. lex rockchambe r.com/ events/details/businessinnovation- and-fundingforum- 2144.
For additional information, contact Jeff Thompson at [email protected] or (703) 298-4072; or Julie Jenkins at Julie@lexrockchamber. com or (540) 4635375.
