Downtown Lynchburg Association (DLA) is excited to announce the winners of our inaugural Launch LYH pitch competition. This unique program aims to boost economic growth and revive the heart of Lynchburg by supporting aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start, move, or expand their businesses in Downtown Lynchburg. We are thrilled to say that all seven of our winning businesses will open or expand within the next year, filling vacant storefronts and bringing new life to Downtown Lynchburg.
The selected applicants were given a comprehensive eight-week educational course, conducted by the Small Business Development Center - Lynchburg Region, which concluded with a thrilling pitch event. A panel of local business experts carefully chose the winners based on their innovative ideas, solid business models, and dedication to enhancing Lynchburg's business community. The winners received a total of $115,000 in grant funds, distributed according to their scores, business needs, and growth plans.
Super Rad! – ($25,000)
Super Rad! will be Lynchburg's exclusive arcade bar, and is set to transform the downtown nightlife by marrying classic and modern gaming. Housing an array of iconic retro games like Pac-Man, Galaga, and TMNT, Super Rad! will strive to resurrect the nostalgic arcade experience complemented by a creative menu intended to cater to the most imaginative culinary dreams. Its dynamic offering will encompass live music nights, exhilarating gaming tournaments, and an inclusive 'Free to Play' gaming arena, open to all. Super Rad will extend an invitation to every guest to partake in this unique blend of excitement and nostalgia, creating an environment where everyone could be the hero.
PREAM – ($25,000)
PREAM (Plants Rule Everything Around Me) is set to cater to indoor gardening needs by offering a variety of houseplants and necessary care accessories. Distinguishing itself from landscaping-focused nurseries, PREAM will prioritize the health and diversity of houseplants. This retail store will be dedicated to fostering community ties, understanding changing plant needs, and promoting plant education through classes, workshops, and events, creating an inclusive indoor gardening community.
Wolfbane Productions – ($25,000)
Wolfbane Productions, a beloved cultural cornerstone known for its innovative and immersive theatrical experiences, will soon expand its artistic reach to Downtown Lynchburg, Virginia. Since its inception in 2008, this award-winning theatre company has significantly contributed to the vibrancy of the arts scene in central Virginia, captivating audiences with its unique performances from its home base in Appomattox. The new location in Downtown Lynchburg is poised to amplify the company's mission to foster the arts community, inviting a broader audience to partake in their cutting-edge productions.
Mosaic Collective + Threaded – ($20,000)
Mosaic Collective and its sustainability-focused thrift store, Threaded, are set to relocate from 5th Street to a larger Main Street location. Both stores embody a commitment to social and environmental justice; Mosaic champions fair trade and empowers underprivileged communities, while Threaded encourages a circular economy, provides affordable goods, and raises awareness on the impact of fast fashion. By integrating community giveback initiatives and a 'Cash for Clothes' concept, they're transforming retail into a force for global sustainability and equity.
Easy Speak DANCE HALL & EVENTS –($20,000)
Easy Speak Dance Hall & Events, LLC, plans to offer an immersive dance experience, featuring a range of styles like ballroom, latin, and swing, coupled with lessons and live music events. Beyond dance, this venue will serve beverages, snacks, and pizzas, and host special dinner events, while also offering its space for private rentals and community gatherings, positioning itself as a versatile hub for the local community.
Each winner will also receive a Launch LYH Prize Package, which includes valuable resources from our partnering organizations, designed to further support their entrepreneurial journey.
This program was made possible with the support of its sponsors, including the Department of Community and Housing Development's Community Business Launch Program, the Truist, Bank of the James, Freedom First Credit Union, Scott Insurance, Opportunity Lynchburg - VA, The Stott/Stone/Midkiff Group - Stifel, Small Business Development Center - Lynchburg Region, Central Virginia Community College, Moore & Giles, Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, and The Virginian Hotel.
