The Advancement Foundation
Fueling Entrepreneurial Growth & Innovation
in Virginia Communities
We connect entrepreneurs and innovators with
practical programs, trusted mentors, and access to resources
that help businesses move forward
The Advancement Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening local economies by supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.
Through proven programs, meaningful connections, and place-based investment, we help businesses start, stabilize, and scale.
Programs
Ideal for ventures pursuing scalable models, innovation, or regional and national markets.
Accelerator-style support for high-growth ventures, offering expert guidance, strategic insight, and connections to help founders scale with intention.
The Quest
Ideal for entrepreneurs launching or strengthening a Main Street or local-market business.
A cohort-based program that helps founders move from idea to action through guided learning, mentorship, accountability, and access to practical resources.
The Gauntlet
Places
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Virginia Innovation Accelerator
BUENA VISTA, VA
VIA is a multi-use innovation hub offering business acceleration alongside flexible manufacturing and product-development space for entrepreneurs
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Junction 245 Marketplace
BUENA VISTA, VA
A marketplace and community hub where local makers and entrepreneurs showcase their products, refine their brands, and grow their businesses.
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VIA Kitchen
BUENA VISTA, VA
A shared commercial kitchen offering modern production space for food manufacturers, caterers, and culinary creators to scale, innovate, and expand.
Upcoming Events
Online Q&A
Tuesday, January 20
6:00 pm
Curious whether The Gauntlet is the right fit? Join a live, online Q&A to hear a brief overview of the program, learn what to expect, and ask practical questions about participation and outcomes. These sessions are designed to help you decide whether to apply with clarity and confidence.
Regional Innovation Networking
Thursday, January 22
5:30-7:30 pm
RND Coffee- Vinton, VA
These networking events bring together entrepreneurs, mentors, and community partners for connection that leads to action, not just conversation. Each gathering features a live challenge session where a local entrepreneur shares a real business issue and the group collaborates on ideas, resources, and next steps. It’s also a low-pressure way to learn more about The Advancement Foundation programs, including The Quest and The Gauntlet.
Get Directions to RND Coffee in Vinton
Online Q&A
Tuesday, January 27
6:00 pm
Curious whether The Gauntlet is the right fit? Join a live, online Q&A to hear a brief overview of the program, learn what to expect, and ask practical questions about participation and outcomes. These sessions are designed to help you decide whether to apply with clarity and confidence.
Gauntlet Alumni Spotlight
GAUNTLET alumni Richard Mansell & the IVO Team are doing some out of this world projects. Check out the IVO Quantum Drive video about his latest project.
ENGAGE YOUR GEAR
Entrepreneurs
Start-Ups
Innovators
Business Owners
Community IGNITERS
Government
Higher Education
Resource Agencies
IGNITER Resources
Mentors
Sponsors
Angel Investors