Launch LYH
Helping entrepreneurs start, move, and grow their businesses in the heart of Downtown Lynchburg.
Launch LYH was a program that supported entrepreneurs who were ready to start a new business, relocate their business, or expand their existing business in a Downtown Lynchburg storefront. Selected applicants participated in an eight-week education course that culminated in a pitch competition. Winning pitches received at least $20,000 in cash grants to help with new venture costs — rent, build-out, inventory, or other start-up expenses.
From 2023 to 2025, fifteen businesses opened or are set to open in Downtown Lynchburg as a result of this initiative, with a total of $310,000 awarded to these winners.
15
Businesses opened or opening
$310K
Awarded in grants
3
Years of pitch competitions
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.
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2024 Winners
Five more businesses earned $100,000 in grants to bring new life to vacant storefronts.
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2025 Winners
The third and final class — five winners sharing $100,000 to launch and grow downtown.
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