Aspiring Entrepreneurs with the Start SMART Series

Forty-five aspiring entrepreneurs committed every Tuesday night from September to December 2024 to learn how to start and manage a successful business.

The Virginia Cooperative Extension – Financial Empowerment Center (the Center) led the effort to kick-off the Start SMART Small Business series, which supports their mission to empower financial literacy through no-cost education, housing counseling, and coaching.

The Center partnered across government agencies and the community to create the 12-week essential business management program using the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Smart Money curriculum alongside Small Business Administration (SBA) resources. Local partners in the program included: 

• Virginia Career Works 
• Mason Small Business Development Center (Mason SBDC)  
• Prince William Chamber of Commerce
• Prince William County Department of Economic Development and Tourism (PWCDEDT)

The program culminated in an exciting pitch competition on December 17, with participants vying for startup grant prizes. Mason SBDC counselors provided advanced guidance throughout the series, helping participants translate their business concepts into actionable plans rooted in real-world insights.

The inaugural program showcased Prince William County’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, featuring businesses ranging from community-centric food services to specialized mental and physical health programs.

Each entrepreneur presented unique solutions to community needs, and the diversity of business models underscored the innovative spirit fueling Prince William County’s growth. The winning pitches included:

• First Place ($2,500): Connor Keuntje, Mind Body Equation
• Second Place ($1,000): Hajar Aboueddahab, Jawhara Moroccan Cafe
• Third Place ($500): Shameka Kirk, Landmark Ground Logistics LLC

The panel of volunteer judges provided thoughtful feedback, valuable insights, and identified new market opportunities and strategic growth approaches. Thank you to the panel of judges who lent their expertise to the competition:

• Ebony Wilkins, Aalis Management Consulting
• Chris Rieley, Atlantic Union Bank
• Subodh Nayar, Mason SBDC

The Start SMART Small Business Series exemplifies the collaborative and innovative spirit that defines Prince William County’s business community. For more information about the next cohort, reach out to the Center and stay tuned to the PWCDEDT LinkedIn page.