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Happy Holidays

GOOCHLAND EDA LAUNCHES TWO NEW PROGRAMS TO SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES

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ATTENTION RESTAURANTS, ATTRACTIONS, OR OTHER TOURISM BUSINESSES!

GRANT OPPORTUNITY TO HELP FUND COST OF ROADWAY SIGNAGE

The purpose of the Goochland County LOGO & Tourist-Oriented Directional Sign (TODS) Grant program is to support businesses and organizations in Goochland’s tourism industry with advertising and directional signage to drive visitors to tourist locations in the County. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) regulates the size, location, and type of signage along public roads by requiring permits. There are annual fees associated with obtaining these permits.  Small tourism businesses, like restaurants, craft beverage makers, and retail shops typically cannot afford extensive advertising budgets.

This grant initiative is designed to:

  • Increase Visibility: Help travelers easily locate your business while navigating Goochland County’s roadways.
  • Drive Tourism: Encourage visitation and economic activity by making our attractions and services more accessible.
  • Support Your Success: Provide financial assistance to reduce barriers to participation in these vital signage programs.

To learn more and find out if you qualify, please visit our website. 

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ATTENTION SMALL BUSINESSES WITH PLANS TO EXPAND!

GRANT OPPORTUNITY TO INCENTIVIZE EXPANSION

The purpose of the Goochland County Small Business Expansion Incentive program is to encourage and aid Goochland’s existing small businesses with expansion plans. Typically, small businesses are not making investments large enough to qualify for traditional incentives, however, their investments contribute to the overall tax base in Goochland County and are recognized as important to keeping the economy healthy.

Incentives are available for any for-profit small businesses expanding their operations to increase production and grow their business. Funding for this program is limited and is on a first come first serve basis.  To learn more and see if your business qualifies, please visit our website. 

SHOP LOCAL AND SAVE!

Open Rewards Program

Virginia’s Hourly Minimum Wage to Increase to $12.41 on January 1, 2025 

Effective January 1, 2025, Virginia’s minimum wage will increase to $12.41 per hour. This adjustment follows a 2020 amendment to the Virginia Minimum Wage Act and reflects a 3.4% increase based on the Consumer Price Index. Going forward, adjustments to the minimum hourly rate will be made annually. For more details, please refer to the formal announcement available here.  

 

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Business Spotlight!

Each Month we will spotlight a different Goochland Business!

Byrd Cellars

Unbeknownst to some, Goochland County has a growing cluster of craft beverage manufacturers. One of those bustling businesses is Byrd Cellars, a winery in western Goochland that is celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024. Byrd Cellars is a family-owned winery, with three generations of their family working in the vineyard and winery. When you arrive at the winery, you will most likely be greeted by Bruce and Kathy Murray, and their son Chris. The winery sits on a scenic 72 acres with 8 acres of grape vines. 

Byrd Cellars grows all their own grapes, consisting of nine varieties of American, European, and hybrid grapes. Chris Murray is the vineyard manager, ensuring the growth of consistent and quality grapes. From these grapes, Byrd Cellars produces a robust selection of 21 fine wines. Their wines range from dry to sweet, ensuring there is wine for all patrons. They also have several specialty wines like their dessert wine that has notes of chocolate, an aperitif-like wine, and their hot spiced wine which is perfect for celebrating the holidays. While their team is small, their production is mighty, producing around 45,000 bottles a year!

Byrd Cellars is also focused on how they can be stewards of the environment. They use a micro-drip irrigation system to conserve water and all their fertilization is done with natural organic fertilizers. In addition, no grape by-products are ever wasted and always find their way back into the vineyard. Byrd Cellars also has a bottle recycle program, where customers can bring in their used empty bottles with the label still intact and get fifty cents back for each one.

Byrd Cellars sells directly to the consumer so you will not find them in stores or restaurants. Byrd Cellars regularly has live music and food trucks on the weekend for their customers to enjoy. This summer, go out to Byrd Cellars to enjoy delicious wine, scenic views, and great company. Byrd is located at 2442 Davis Mill Road, Goochland, Virginia 23063. Check them out on the web - https://byrdcellars.com/.

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Explore Goochland!

Check out some fun activities happening in Goochland!

Holiday Wreath Workshop
Holiday Cookie Event
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Upcoming Events You Don't Want to Miss!

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SBDC events
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SCORE Business Plan Event

Looking to Grow in Goochland? 

Check out available building and sites in Goochland to grow your business and give us a call to chat! 

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Preserving our Roots:

Agri-Businesses in Goochland

Grants, Loans, and Conservation Opportunities for Virginia Farmers and Agribusiness

Did you know that Virginia agricultural producers and agribusiness enjoy a host of grants, loans, and conservation support not available to other industries. If you are a farmer, agribusiness, or value-added product producers, you don’t want to miss this pre-recorded webinar. The Directors of Virginia’s major agricultural programs discuss in detail each grant, loan, and conservation opportunity offered by their Agency. Check out the presentations slides and recorded webinar here: https://cvsbdc.org/oct26-agribusiness-webinar/

Upcoming Events & Training

Capital Region SBDC
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Goochland Chamber of Commerce
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2931 River Road West Goochland VA 23063

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