Special Edition: Celebrating Our Military Spouses & Veteran Community

About this event

Whether you are exploring a new business idea, growing a startup, or leading an established company, Entrepreneurship 101 is designed to support you at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey.

Presented in partnership with Fort Belvoir Army Community Service, this special edition recognizes the innovation, leadership, resilience, and unique experiences that veterans and military spouses bring to entrepreneurship. The event is open to aspiring entrepreneurs, established business owners, military-connected entrepreneurs, and members of the broader small business community.

This full-day, collaborative experience brings together entrepreneurs, business experts, lenders, and small business resource partners for a powerful day of learning, networking, and opportunity.

Participants will gain practical knowledge, expand their professional networks, and connect with tools and resources that can help them start, strengthen, or scale a business. Whether you are transitioning from military service, building a portable career as a military spouse, or pursuing your next stage of business growth, this event will help you identify actionable next steps.

During the workshop, you will learn how to: Validate and refine your business idea Strengthen your business operations and marketing strategy Access funding, technical assistance, and business resources Avoid common challenges that can slow business growth Understand local tax and regulatory requirements Build connections that support long-term business success Why Attend? Expert Guidance Learn from experienced business professionals, lenders, and resource partners.

Practical Insights Gain useful information that can be applied to your business immediately.

Meaningful Connections Meet fellow entrepreneurs and build relationships with organizations that support small business development.

Access to Resources Connect with organizations offering free or low-cost business assistance.

No Cost to Attend Participation in the workshop and expo is free.

Join us for an opportunity to explore professional pathways, engage in meaningful conversations, and connect with free resources for small business development and entrepreneurship.

Together, we will celebrate our veteran and military spouse entrepreneurs while building a stronger small business community that continues to drive innovation, growth, and opportunity throughout our region.

Event Schedule Registration, Check-In, and Networking Breakfast 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

Entrepreneurship 101 Workshop 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Small Business and Entrepreneurship Expo 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Micro Workshops 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM

We look forward to seeing you on November 10!

From Fairfax County Economic Development Authority