As 2023 comes to a close, the Verge alliance is proud of the work being done to grow the region’s innovation economy and support entrepreneurs making a splash in the technology and life sciences sectors.
With your support, we can do more in 2024.
Your year-end gift to the Verge alliance will help us make a greater impact and help grow the Roanoke-Blacksburg technology community into a self-sustaining innovation ecosystem.
Support Tech Entrepreneurs
RAMP, the Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program, plays a key role in the process, nurturing startup companies in the growing technology and health and life sciences sectors through a 12-week cohort and other resources. These programs are all offered free or at a low-cost to the entrepreneurs.
This technology-based economic development matters to your community and your future. Supporting our local entrepreneurs and their startups ensures that their ideas and innovation contribute to our region’s economy and job base. Their successes help attract new companies to our region, further strengthening our communities.
The numbers tell our story.
Since 2017, RAMP has accelerated 48 companies. Today, 85% of those companies are still in business, supporting 650+ jobs and raised a combined $28+ million.
Your year-end support will go toward resources for our regional startups, including:
- 1:1 expert mentoring
- Free office space with hi-speed internet access
- Access to angel and VC investors through our Demo Day presentations
- $20,000 in equity-free funding
- Free membership in the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council
- Three additional years of ongoing support, post acceleration
The Hart of the Entrepreneur Impact Award Endowment
A trailblazing, serial entrepreneur and pioneer for the region’s innovation ecosystem, Bonz Hart was a loyal champion of RBTC and served in various leadership roles, including the first technology entrepreneur president.
RBTC members and friends closest to Bonz created an endowment that will continue Bonz Hart’s tremendous spirit and contribution to the Roanoke-Blacksburg technology community. The endowment funds The Hart of the Entrepreneur Impact Award, which will be given annually to an outstanding entrepreneur in the region.
The Hart of the Entrepreneur Impact Award is a $10,000 award granted to an outstanding entrepreneur in the region who has demonstrated high impact through their startup.
The fund is managed by the Community Foundation of Western Virginia. Endowment contributions are encouraged and can be made at any time. The committee aims to raise $250,000 and distribute $10,000 annually so this award can be provided in perpetuity. To contribute to this high-impact award, contact info@rbtc.tech.
RBTC Partnerships to Elevate Your Brand
Are you looking to gain direct access to hundreds of innovators who are shaping the region’s tech community?
RBTC membership offers you a platform to have your voice heard in various RBTC experiences and events. Plus, you can get noticed through event sponsorships, ensuring that your brand stands out in the tech ecosystem. Connect with us and elevate your brand’s visibility by checking out our partnership opportunities.
Thank You for Your Support
Because of generous donors and partners, programs reach more startups and innovators through the combined efforts of Verge, RAMP, and the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council.
Won’t you join us? Make your year-end gift now. Thank you for helping us grow our innovation economy in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region!
