7-year-old who sells lemonade becomes youngest entrepreneur in the Gauntlet
ROANOKE, Va. – Making history at seven years old, Judah Clements is the youngest entrepreneur to ever be accepted into the Gauntlet program. Selling lemonade under his nickname Judah Bug, he is ready to bottle his product and start selling online. Looking for some help, Judah and his family, turned to The Gauntlet. “I found out that it takes a lot of work,” Judah said. Ad“It’s going to inspire them to do a business,” Judah said.
Creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem: A look at how SWVA is fostering entrepreneurship
It’s called “an entrepreneurial ecosystem.” Fostering entrepreneurship has become a core focus of economic development in cities and countries around the world. Tapping into the entrepreneurial ecosystem is a core lesson taught in the program. AdOften, local businesses support other local businesses, knowing they’re each stronger together. Amanda Forrester with the Roanoke Regional Small Business Development Center said that’s a trend in Southwest Virginia, especially during the pandemic. The community plays a big role in creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Gauntlet celebrates five years of small business growth in Roanoke Valley
VINTON, Va. – The Roanoke Valley’s own The Gauntlet celebrated the end of its fifth season Thursday night. Entrepreneurs once again competed in Virginia's largest business growth competition. They were recognized for their hard work and growth over the last few months at the Vinton War Memorial. The Advancement Foundation is behind the program and said as the program continues to grow, so do the opportunities for businesses right here at home. We want to keep our talent here," Advancement Foundation President Annette Patterson said.