Applications Now Open
Launch LYH
Helping entrepreneurs start, move, and grow their businesses in the heart of Downtown Lynchburg.
Application deadline:
The Program Is Back
The Downtown Lynchburg Association is excited to announce that applications are open for the next Launch LYH program — designed to support entrepreneurs who are 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.
If you have a business idea that will contribute to the vibrancy of Downtown Lynchburg, we encourage you to apply.
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
Eligibility
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria.
Prior SBDC training
You have completed an SBDC training program — a previous Launch LYH cohort, CO.STARTERS, Startup Toolbox classes, or another SBDC-approved equivalent.
An established business
You have been operating an existing business for at least 18 months and are ready to move or expand it into a downtown storefront.
Questions about eligibility? Contact Stephanie Keener at the SBDC – Lynchburg Region at skeener@lynchburgregion.org .
How to Apply
There's no online form — the process starts with a conversation.
- 1
Reach out to DLA
Email Stacy Garrett, DLA's Executive Director, to start the conversation and schedule a meeting.
- 2
Meet and sign the MOU
Sit down with DLA to talk through your concept and sign the required Memorandum of Understanding.
- 3
Work through the program
Complete the Pathways & Milestones Program with the SBDC – Lynchburg Region and build your business plan.
- 4
Pitch for funding
Present your business at the Launch LYH Pitch Competition for the chance to receive grant funding.
Ready to get started?
Contact Stacy Garrett, Executive Director of the Downtown Lynchburg Association, to schedule a meeting and sign the required Memorandum of Understanding. Applications close .
Email stacy@downtownlynchburg.comThe Track Record
From 2023 to 2025, fifteen businesses opened or are set to open in Downtown Lynchburg as a result of this program.
15
Businesses opened or opening
$310K
Awarded in grants
3
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.
Read more
2024 Winners
Five more businesses earned $100,000 in grants to bring new life to vacant storefronts.
Read more
2025 Winners
Five winners shared $100,000 to launch and grow their businesses downtown.
Read more
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.
