Support
Let’s expand the reach of the regional innovation ecosystem
With over 45 tech and biotech start-ups supported so far, we want to expand our resources to support and connect pre-seed entrepreneurs, as well as those exiting the RAMP in residency programming. The Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program (RAMP) now supports startup companies in the health and life sciences space as they prepare for post-RAMP programs like Johnson & Johnson’s JLABS.
Partnerships with programs like SBDC’s ICAP assist Virginia-based technology and innovation-driven startups with pre-RAMP mentorship and services. The Verge alliance is also working with JLABS to better understand their needs in building out a health and life sciences pre-acceleration program. Exit RAMP support includes ongoing programming, mentorship, connection to mentors, annual memberships to include RBTC and Virginia Bio, and network-building events.
The acceleration resources and connections we offer are free or low-cost to our entrepreneurs, and we never take equity, so our organization relies on grant funding and private donations to support our work. Thank you for helping us grow our innovation economy here in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region!
Your Donation Supports Accelerating Innovation Through RAMP
RAMP has helped 48 companies advance their technology and accelerate their development since its inception in 2017.
This is an example of technology-based economic development in action. Accelerating businesses locally helps keep ideas and innovation in our region as well as attracts new companies to locate here.
- 85% are currently in existence
- 46% of U.S. startups have raised equity pre-accelerator vs. 64% of companies post-acceleration
- 650+ jobs supported
- RAMP alumni have raised $28+ million combined
Your Support Helps Provide the Following Resources for Regional Startups
- 1:1 expert mentoring as well as access to content mentors covering the world of business knowledge
- 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
Why it Matters: Regional Technology Industry by the Numbers
| GO Virginia Region 2 | Priority Clusters (Food and Beverage Manufacturing, Information and Emerging Technologies, Life Sciences, and Manufacturing) | Life Sciences Sector (Source: Virginia Bio) |
|---|---|---|
| 781,648 total population | 362,604 total employment | 26,545 total employment |
| $41,152 median income | $77,848 average annual wage | |
| $8 billion contribution to Virginia’s economy | ||
| 1,451 companies in Virginia |
What is the Verge Alliance?
Verge is a strategic coalition of organizations that lead and drive public and private collaboration on innovative projects in the Roanoke-Blacksburg region of Virginia that expand to the state level and beyond. The Verge alliance, including the Regional Accelerator & Mentoring Program (RAMP) and Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council (RBTC), provides programming, coaching, talent attraction/development, and connectivity to elevate the greater technology and biotechnology sectors in Region 2.