What does the Launch LYH program involve?

Selected participants complete the Launch LYH Participant Pathways & Milestones Program with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Lynchburg Region, meet one-on-one with SBDC Business Advisors, develop a comprehensive business plan, and pitch their business concept for the chance to receive grant funding.

Are Launch LYH applications open right now?

Not currently. Applications for the most recent cohort have closed. Watch the Downtown Lynchburg Association news page and newsletter for the next call for applications.

Launch LYH

Helping entrepreneurs start, move, and grow their businesses in the heart of Downtown Lynchburg.

About the Program

Launch LYH is the Downtown Lynchburg Association's program for entrepreneurs ready to start, relocate, or expand a business in Downtown Lynchburg.

Selected participants complete the Launch LYH Participant Pathways & Milestones Program with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) – Lynchburg Region. Upon successful completion, participants have the opportunity to pitch their business concept for the chance to receive grant funding to assist with opening and growing a new downtown business.

Applications for the current cohort have closed. Watch our news and newsletter for the next call for applications.

Program Highlights

Complete the Launch LYH Participant Pathways & Milestones Program
Meet one-on-one with SBDC Business Advisors at each milestone
Develop a comprehensive business plan
Present your business at the Launch LYH Pitch Competition
Compete for grant funding to open or grow your downtown business

The Track Record

From 2023 to 2025, fifteen businesses opened or are set to open in Downtown Lynchburg as a result of this program.

Businesses opened or opening

$310K

Awarded in grants

Cohorts funded since 2023

Meet the Winners

Read the full announcements for each year's grant recipients.

2023 Winners

Our inaugural class — seven businesses awarded grants to open or expand downtown.

2024 Winners

Five more businesses earned $100,000 in grants to bring new life to vacant storefronts.

2025 Winners

Five winners shared $100,000 to launch and grow their businesses downtown.

Launch LYH pitch competition winners celebrating

Entrepreneurs presenting at the Launch LYH pitch event

Launch LYH grant recipients at their downtown storefront

Partners & Sponsors

Launch LYH is made possible by the organizations that invest in downtown's next generation of small businesses.

2026 Launch LYH Sponsor

Lynchburg Area Development Corporation

Thank you for being a 2026 Launch LYH Sponsor. Your generous support helps make Launch LYH possible and empowers us to inspire, connect, and support the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators in our community.