Empowering Growth: Highlights from Our First Venture Acceleration Program
This summer, we were thrilled to host our first-ever Venture Acceleration Program, where seven dedicated community entrepreneurs came together to push their ventures forward. Over six intensive weeks, they worked hard, receiving guidance, mentorship, and connecting with valuable networks. Each week included sessions on finance, marketing, and operations, plus brainstorming and practical feedback from industry mentors, all culminating in a friendly competition for seed funding.
Our top finisher, Jim Weigl, founder of Blue Box Auction Gallery, came into the program with five years of experience and a team of 11. Reflecting on his journey, Jim shared that the program reaffirmed his belief in the importance of continuous growth and adaptability in business. “You are only as good as your team,” he remarked, emphasizing his commitment to nurturing and expanding his team to support the gallery’s long-term vision. Jim also likened the entrepreneurial journey to a sports season, explaining, “You may lose one game, but there’s always a season to keep playing.” This perspective, rooted in resilience and forward-thinking, inspired him to embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Through the program, Jim gained valuable insights into strengthening team dynamics, enhancing operational efficiency, and preparing for the future. With this mindset, he left the program ready to lead Blue Box Auction Gallery into its next chapter, fueled by a renewed focus on collaboration and innovation.
Second place went to Johnny Clapham, who created Motion Medix LLC, a venture focused on wearable motion sensors to help prevent falls in seniors and people with Parkinson’s. Johnny shared that the Venture Acceleration Program helped him "refine objectives and key results" while connecting him with Virginia’s mentor and cohort networks. He highlighted the value of learning best practices for customer discovery and sales strategies, including SaaS, direct sales, and partnering with healthcare practitioners. “The program helped me drive home the importance of meeting with the target population and creating real value for the customer,” he explained. Hands-on sessions in financial modeling helped him map out revenue strategies and build confidence. Moving forward, Johnny plans to expand Motion Medix by gathering more consumer data, refining their story, and starting fundraising efforts. He encourages businesses at all stages to participate; "It was an amazing program with a very welcoming environment, and would encourage everyone to join".
Finally, Susan Valashinas and George Valashinas, co-founders of COTA Veterinary, came in third. They described how the program helped them open to new tech solutions and fresh ideas. The mentorship and feedback they received not only sharpened their vision but also inspired them to think bigger and bolder about their company's future. As they prepared to leave the program, Susan and George expressed a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm, feeling empowered to take the next steps. With a solid business plan and fresh momentum, they were eager to engage with investors and strategic partners, aiming to expand COTA Veterinary's impact on the veterinary industry and beyond.
The participants not only strengthened their businesses but also built lasting connections with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and experts who will continue to support them on their journeys. We encourage you to connect with them—whether you’re curious to learn more, interested in collaborating, or eager to support their work. Their dedication and commitment truly capture the spirit of our Venture Acceleration Program, and we are excited to follow their journeys as they continue to grow and make a difference in our community. The same mentors that formed part of this program and worked with Jim, Johnny, Susan, and George are an available resource at the Hub no matter the stage your venture may be, if you are interested book an appointment here. We look forward to welcoming more community entrepreneurs and students into our programs!
