Start-Up Competition 2013
Speakeasy was named the Region’s Next Best Start-Up at the 2nd Annual i.e.* Start-Up Competition on April 16th! They took home a $10,000 cash prize and other great prizes. Dragon Grips won the $2,500 People’s Choice Award.
Read about the event on Work It, Richmond.
Read about all of the finalists on RVANews.
More about the i.e.* Start-Up Competition
The winner of the Start-Up Competition receives a $10,000 cash prize, thanks to our friends at Cherry Bekaert LLP, as well as…
- Six months of free office space at New Richmond Ventures
- $3,500 worth of IT strategy and implementation services from Imagine Simplicity
- Mentoring from 804RVA
- Also new this year, one finalist will be named the People’s Choice Award Winner and receive $2,500 from First Capital Bank!
Eligibility requirements for contestants:
1. Contestants must verify that they have been in business for less than one year (or not prior to March 19, 2012), or not yet a licensed business, and
2. Contestants must be willing to headquarter their business somewhere in the Richmond Region.
Judging Criteria:
-
Evaluation of the viability of the business to be successful
-
Evaluation of the innovative nature of the business
-
Originality of the product or service in the market
Selection of Finalists: Here is how our finalists were selected:
- A cadre of local successful entrepreneurs selected their top 5 from the overall contestant pool. They had access only to the information posted on the i.e.* website.
- The public voted during a three day period, March 26, 27 and 28, via the i.e.* site. The ten contestants that received the most votes were named finalists.
- One contestant was selected by both the entrepreneurs and the public, resulting in 14 finalists.
- Chamber staff members are NOT involved in selecting the finalists
- Filter applications by category:
VOTE
NOW!DragonGrips
DragonGrips are a set of heated pedal-powered bicycle handlebar grips. A small generator is used to capture the bicycle’s forward motion and generate electricity, which is then passed to a heating element embedded in an insulated grip. A cold metal handle bar and the constant flow of air over a rider’s hands can render even the best gloves useless, yet there are few accessories that aid a rider when riding in winter weather. DragonGrips are made to be affordable, adaptable to a variety of bicycles, and remove the need for environmentally unfriendly batteries. Our goal is to refine our working prototype and build around it a brand dedicated to making cycling more comfortable and accessible for all.
VOTE
NOW!CouchTent
CouchTent: Indoor interior tents, made to fit over couches, cots and lounge chairs. It gives the person privacy in an unfamiliar OR familiar interior environment. Perfect for offices, universities, airports, churches, convention centers, schools, and homes. Example: A lengthy coding session and developers need to be on-site? No problem with CouchTent! With the recent Hurricane Sandy event, the number one complaint with FEMA is "privacy”. Security in knowing that you have seclusion from interlopers trespassing in your shared area. Three minutes to setup. Three standard models. Comes with a Handy carrying on case.
VOTE
NOW!Emergent Social Solutions
Many businesses find that although setting up a Facebook page or a Twitter account is easy enough to delegate to an intern or employee, that's not all it takes. To be successful on social media takes time, planning, creativity, and the social know-how to build a community that will rally behind your brand and continue to grow. We are a full service social media management company that is flexible and adaptable to each company's specific social marketing needs. We believe in customer service - and whether it's coaching, content creation, community management or just a social presence at your event - we can be here for you. With Emergent Social Solutions, we don't just set you up on social media platforms, we help you become emergent.
VOTE
NOW!DoMorePeriod
DoMorePeriod is an organization geared towards promoting community activism in the Richmond Area. The mission is to collaborate with individuals and community based organizations to identify areas DoMorePERIOD can be of support and service while inspiring others to do the same.
- VOTE
NOW!Hemply
Hemp.ly was founded on simple principle: people should be able to win money by helping to legalize marijuana. Hemp.ly will be a mailing list that people can join to receive pointers about specific actions they can take to expedite cannabis legalization. People are automatically entered to win $2,000 when they subscribe to the mailing list. A variety of marketing techniques will be employed, including the usual suspects--SMO and SEO. Targeted ads will also be purchased, and viral videos are being created. The list will spread virally because people will be incentivized to share it. When sign-ups exceed 50,000 people, we will turn on several possible revenue streams. Note: .ly is a obviously a valid tld but the form wouldn't let me enter it in the website address section.
VOTE
NOW!aGRAshare
Want to gather with friends and family around a bonfire and listen to the quiet strumming of guitars under the stars? Congregate with the community rail-side to celebrate and support historical horse races that benefit local charities? Stroll an open air market perusing the wares of local organic artisans? Swing on a tire-swing, climb a rope ladder or cross a stream dangling from a zip-line? Learn from local farmers and chefs how to grow, harvest and cook heirloom crops? Explore a sustainable barnyard, interacting with heritage livestock and collect your own farm fresh eggs? Then join our "Roots Revival"!
aGRAshare is holding a "Roots Revival" and everyone is asked to attend! Why? aGRAshare seeks to "revive the roots" of Virginia's rural heritage for all of us to enjoy and experience. aGRAshare will aggregate conservation, innovation, education and preservation to ensure sustainable agricultural, technical, cultural and economic development and attract a cross sector of social enterprises with like values for the betterment of our community and Virginia at large. How? RSVP to our "Roots Revival" by voting for aGRAshare as your favorite start-up in the ie. Start-up Competition. When? March 26, 27 and 28 aGRAshare.org is currently under construction but in the meantime, please join us on Facebook! https://www.facebook.com/pages/AGRAshare/351214364982503 **To further illustrate our commitment to cultivating opportunities for our community to experience a more personal connection with agriculture, WE PLEDGE to DONATE 10% of any CASH prizes AWARDED to aGRAshare to fellow NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS in the GREATER RICHMOND AREA!**
VOTE
NOW!Collabor804
Collabor804 is an affordable rental studio that will provide local artists with an open environment to create, choreograph, communicate and collaborate! Richmond is full of artists from the visual to the performing and it’s not always easy to find a space to practice or meet up with others to work on individual or group projects. Collabor804 gives aspiring instructors, from dance to yoga to martial arts, a studio where they could practice or give private lessons in a mirrored room with a stereo system. It would also offer quiet, well lit areas with light supplies for graphic designers, painters, or other visual artists and Wifi is included in the rental price. In exchange for a small membership fee, artists in Richmond could come utilize the space and would just need to reserve their spot an hour before their desired time. There will also be rates for drop-ins. Since the goal of Collabor804 is to create fusion amongst RVA artists, once a month the studio will host open houses where members can showcase and share their creations while also providing support & feedback for others. Find out more: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBRgLdsmIf4&feature=youtube_gdata
VOTE
NOW!PotLuck
PotLuck is the third party marketing arm of locally crafted libations. By leveraging existing partnerships within Virginia’s craft beer industry, nonprofits, and community leaders we will continue to enhance the relationship between the local community and the Commonwealth's award-winning, bourgeoning libations industry. Having been financially outmuscled by “Big Beer” and holding onto only 5% of the beer market there is a significant need for these local refreshments to have additional representation in a crowded market. Local brewers will utilize our services to assist in increasing consumer awareness through three areas of focus: brewery tours, brokerage services, event planning/fundraisers. Establishing ourselves as the craft beer brokers of Virginia we will focus on growing brands without adding the cost additional salaries, benefits, and training associated with bringing on a full time sales professional. Additionally, PotLuck has been dedicated to the growth of locally made products by involving ourselves with Virginia's most comprehensive brewery tours established late 2012. Moving forward we will use handcrafted tours, promotions and special events to act as ambassadors for our craft brewing partners, non-profits, and civic organizations. As brokers for local business' we will strive to educate consumers on the mantra; locally made, locally enjoyed, Handcrafted Right Here at Home.
VOTE
NOW!CLUE
In a world made up of multiple choice, education remains black and white, failing to see the many shades of gray. Current systems assess the accuracy of a question but never stop to evaluate where students lose their way, or how far they’ve come. CLUE, or Classroom Learner User Experience, is an education driven endeavor that uses organically cultivated student feedback to discover learner opportunities. By intuitively applying data from learner experiences, CLUE seeks to discover new instructional methods of evaluating a student's level of understanding. These new approaches can be used to better reach students and diversify classroom learning.
VOTE
NOW!RAM SNACKS
RAM SNACKS will be a late night food, drink and convenience item delivery business that caters towards university students. Students who are too busy to go to the store can simply order online or via smart phone app. After placing an order it will be on its way to them within minutes.
VOTE
NOW!3THOUGHTSMEANALOT
3THOUGHTSMEANALOT is built with the mission to help foster self-confidence within toddlers-teens through the use of self affirmations. The concept drew inspiration from the movie, "The Help", the scene where the little girl is asked to recite the same affirmation every morning at wake-up. 3THOUGHTSMEANALOT will serve as a site that parents and kids can order customized accessories (bracelets, patches, magnets) that can be worn at school on backpacks, clothing, displayed on lockers, etc. I envision 3THOUGHTSMEANALOT becoming a "Life is Good" for kids. With the ongoing issues of school bullying, kids need to feel an inner value of self worth, self love that through belief can have a tremendous impact throughout life.
VOTE
NOW!Mix and Match: Beverage Planning and Consulting
Mix and Match helps you provide a new, memorable experience for your guests. Create a unique mixology program for your wedding or function, from "his and hers" cocktails, themed beverages – "adult" sno-cones or “tipsy” floats – to on-site consulting and collaborating with your caterer/designer, let us plan your refreshments. Featuring custom mixology and non-alcoholic choices, intricate to simple, our award-winning consultant will organize all beverage logistics, ensuring an entertaining experience. We provide staff, barware, and favors for exclusive keepsakes; we make it easy by organizing permits/zoning. Preview us at the Bridal Expo, as well as pop-up events around Richmond. Cheers!
- VOTE
NOW!Rent-a-Dorm
While not everyone remembers their first night of college, many can recall how they spent that morning. Most of these mornings involve numerous trips to department stores for dorm furnishings and storage. Rent-a-Dorm provides an all-encompassing, affordable, and customizable package of everything needed to make a dorm or apartment livable for the school year. Local market research of students shows that there is considerable interest renting most dorm-related items. Working with the University of Richmond’s international education center, we are initially targeting exchange students coming from abroad who are in dire need of things to make their room a home.
VOTE
NOW!HIP HOPE
Hiphop culture is often viewed as an unfortunate stigma that tarnishes the lives of our youth. In order to address and annihilate this misconception that impacts our youth daily, there is an urgent need for young people to have consistent access to a safe zone that does not take away their hiphop identities, but uplifts them instead. HIP HOPE works to counteract the anarchy that elements of hiphop culture may present by providing an intensive and interactive after-school mentoring program for youth of Richmond, VA between the ages of 12 and 16. Through using the aesthetics of hiphop culture to shift perspectives and maximize impact, youth have a unique venue to cultivate essential life skills, celebrate the positivity of hiphop culture, and foster artistic freedom. HIP HOPE is a viable solution for youth living in a vulnerable society.
VOTE
NOW!CHOOSE.IT
People love to use deal-of-the-day sites (e.g. Groupon, LivingSocial, Gilt) but often they are not getting the deals they really want. How great would it be if they could? Choose.It will offer its members the ability to pitch deals they want and receive personalized value from their deal-of-the-day website. Choose.It is the Kickstarter.com for discounts. Instead of a top-down model, Choose.It facilitates the democratization of the deal-of-day market by allowing its members to generate deals that matter to them and build a collective community or group experience at the same time. With the ability to pull demand, Choose.It will be able to minimize the marketing and sales costs associated with acquiring deals and customers. Now, the masses can crowd-bargain the deals they want and we'll make it happen. Please view our pitch video at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gnEFpZsXG3Y
VOTE
NOW!The Barkery & Catfe, LLC
The Barkery & Catfe: We fetch - You play! We’re a local, online pet supply retailer & delivery service; catering only the highest quality products to dogs, cats, birds, and pocket pets in the Greater Richmond Region. All local deliveries are FREE to save RVA pet parents time and money – no longer will they have to rush after work to beat early closing times or visit multiple shops to get all of their different types of pets’ supplies. We’re also unique because we offer custom treats and balanced homemade food to cat and dog owners who prefer organic and locally sourced ingredients, “whole food” pet foods, or whose pets have special needs. We strive to be as eco-friendly as possible and we seek out the best eco-friendly pet merchandise. We recycle everything and have two hybrid vehicles for deliveries. We also have a program called “Green Paws” that awards points for future discounts in return for recycling packaging materials from our products. We are marketing through social media, partnering with local rescues, and selling our products at area pet-themed events. Our goal is to promote healthier living for pets, environmentally friendly consumers, and to be a reliable source of information for pet owners.
- VOTE
NOW!Pearls of Wisdom
Education is one of the most influential concepts in our society today and while it affords some females a better life, many young women miss its purpose without guidance. Positive role models are missing and life education is lacking. Pearls of Wisdom, or P.O.W., stands in the gap by giving young women grandma's pearls but in a whole new light. Through mentoring sessions, basic life classes, exposure, seminars and expert talks, P.O.W. shows young women how to take charge of their lives, build hopeful futures, and change the community at large. For us, it’s not enough to just give information. We are here to show them how to live it, becoming the pearls they were created to be.
VOTE
NOW!Connect Cup
The connection between a business and its customer base is invaluable. Connect Cup allows businesses in the Richmond area to reach new customers through creative advertising. How, you ask? A paper coffee cup remains in the hands of a consumer for at least 37 minutes and has an 84% chance to be near a device connected to the internet. What does this mean? Local businesses can place their brand message into the hands of consumers throughout the Richmond area via Connect Cup double-walled paper coffee cups. Our cups can display printed advertisements, promotions, and campaigns and are distributed at no cost to local coffee shops and vendors. Now is the time to innovate how local businesses advertise in Richmond!
VOTE
NOW!Erica's Traveling Tea Party
Have you ever had to plan a child’s birthday party, baby shower, or bridal shower to find it a frustrating process with less than ideal results? Erica’s Traveling Tea Party solves this dilemma by creating unique parties and bringing them right to your home. With several themes to fit your occasion, we will work with you to throw a beautiful bash. From invitation to clean-up, we cover it all! With prepared table settings, edibles, décor, and activities to entertain your guests, we guarantee a memorable event. From princess tea parties to a daddy daughter tea, we strive to create convenient celebrations for you!
VOTE
NOW!Design Innovation, LLC
Design Innovation, LLC is a digital fabrication company that catalogues the metaphysical world we experience daily and uploads this content to the digital world. As a local Google Trusted Photographer and owner of this company, I have the unique opportunity to create virtual tours of architectural interiors and upload them directly to Google Maps. In addition to creating virtual tours, I would like to begin scanning and creating 3-dimensional models of various historic monuments around Richmond (such as the Capitol, Main Street Station, and the Byrd Theatre) as a means of historic preservation.
VOTE
NOW!HourWise
Contractors get a bad rap. From plumber’s cracks, to missing deadlines, we have lowered our expectations. HourWise raises the bar. Our sole purpose is to save contractors and their customers time. Imagine an application that seamlessly communicates schedules, product selections, payments, documents, and much more. Access to this information from any computer or mobile device keeps everyone in sync. Developed by a local contractor to satisfy their own needs; it is evident that HourWise can benefit contractors worldwide. Our initial plan is to market through existing relationships, and accelerate scaling by keeping core features FREE! Respect your time, get HourWise! Check out our video...
- VOTE
NOW!Your Right Hand
Do you have an aging loved one hoping to continue living at home? If so, you’re not alone. According to AARP, the overwhelming majority of seniors want to age gracefully in their own homes. But many of us have dear family members whose health is making it difficult for them to maintain their independence. Your Right Hand’s purpose is to help seniors continue to live fulfilling and active lives in the homes they love doing the things they love. Simply put, short of medical care, we do anything and everything that makes a person’s life happier, more productive and a little easier.
VOTE
NOW!Soul Perks
Empower employers to make their employees happy. Retain and attract top talent by offering a personalized perk designed to create meaning and add happiness to the lives of each of employee every month. At Soul Perk, we believe that life is about happiness, and that shouldn't stop when you walk into work each day. While many companies treat the happiness they bring to their employees as contained in the paychecks they write every two weeks, the reality is that money relates directly to happiness only up to a point. In a world where attracting and retaining top talent has become priority number one for so many companies, shouldn't businesses be focusing on giving their employees things to actually make them happier people? We believe happy employees are good employees, and employees that will stay. We believe that the things that make us happy aren't tangible things most of the time: they're things that add meaning to our lives. Supporting our favorite charities, supporting our professional, spiritual, and cultural development, and giving us amazing experiences are the things that make modern Americans happier people. That is why Soul Perk uses software to allow each of employee of a given company to tell us about themselves, and then we create a profile of things we think would make that person happier. Then, we partner with amazing local and national partners to bring each employee a customized set of perk options to choose from, each designed to add value and create meaning in their lives. Life is about more than just a paycheck: find your Soul Perk.
VOTE
NOW!Tumbleweed
Tumbleweed is an online clothing shop dedicated to providing attractive clothes for baby to toddler-aged boys. By offering classic looks and better basics, we aim to be the go-to resource for moms and dads who are tired of the big box store offerings, silly slogans, and uninspired graphics. We source our pieces from European and American designers who are socially and environmentally conscious about the products they create. Our collections will nurture the inner nature of your baby boy!
VOTE
NOW!Interviews From Hell
INTERVIEWS FROM HELL is a mobile application focused on the sh*t we go through to get a job or fill a position. This three tiered application is geared to help prepare users for their next interview …and provide quite a few laughs while they’re at it. First, IFH collects and shares the outrageous scenarios and horror stories of both employers and job candidates during the interview process and posts these experiences in a real time social feed. End users will be able to like/dislike and provide commentary or support for the submissions on the timeline. Next, users can view daily expert advice from local professionals such as Snag-A-Job, the VA Unemployment Commission, and local recruiters. This tier also includes links to articles, data, and statistics supporting the current post. Lastly, this application provides the ability to conduct personal mock interviews by accessing the user’s mobile camera. Randomly submitted questions will scroll across the screen giving users the option to record and playback their reactions. While an excellent source of entertainment and hilarity, this feature proves to be a useful exercise in thinking outside of the box. Visit interviewsfromhell.tumblr.com and commiserate! Watch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZoYatLAL3I
VOTE
NOW!FLYTY
“I believe that thrift is essential to well-ordered living”. ~John D. The purpose of FLYTY.com is to creatively bring visual stimulation and effective awareness to alluring fashion brands in thrift stores that the general public doesn’t know about but in particularly k- college students. People, students and parents need options; everyone just can’t afford to keep up with the “Jones”. They want style at an affordable price. Thrift stores have the latest fashion brands & accessories but no one knows. By us being trendy and stylish we will make known the many faceted styles that thrift stores have to offer.
- VOTE
NOW!Adam's Philosophy
What is “ADAM’S PHILOSOPHY”- “The Beginning of the “BEST” OUTREACH CONSULTING, YOUTH & EDUCATIONAL COUNSELING GRANT WRITING, COMMUNITY ORGANIZING, FUND RASING, PROGRAM & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT This is who we are! We are just what you need to create, educate, train and problem solve your personal, program or business needs. We have over 15 years of experience. The Business has provided services for The Department of Health, The VA Fatherhood Campaign, Local Community Centers, Richmond Public Schools and Good Will Employment Centers to name just a few. All of these endeavors have provided quite a return on time invested. Our new premier program is called "The Ambassador Institute." We are finding that students and families are not prepared; students are not successfully meeting their education goals! Making the right college selection is essential to getting that job and making your career choice a reality! We are here to help. The Ambassador Institute “AI” Our educational Program brings 15 years of Trio and Higher educational experience! Assistance with choosing a college, Assistance with college admission forms, Assistance in getting financial aid, especially grants and work study, Career Work Shops, Career Speakers, Touring and Mentoring, College Visits, and SAT/ACT Workshops. What makes us unique is that our services go beyond basics. We educate on "How to get the money the Schools say they don't have", How to map my career choice", and "how to become a Master Student.' These are just a few of the special insights we are able to present. We have done presentations for Richmond Schools and our research has indicated that these services are in demand by all schools. We have already established a strong network with public and private institutions’. If we were to receive this grant, it would allow this business to provide many more of these services for youth and underfunded organizations.
VOTE
NOW!Chic Stripes Styling
Chic Stripes Styling’s MO is shopping 2nd hand 1st. Need a new blazer? Head to your local thrift store. Craving a pair of red-soled shoes? Check out the high-end consignment boutique. Want to re-do your wardrobe as your life responsibilities shift? Sign up with Chic Stripes Styling – the only Richmond-based personal style consultant who will help craft a streamlined wardrobe filled with investment pieces by shopping second hand. With a built in audience from style blog collaborations with GRID, RVA Fashion Week, and DowntownShortPump.com, CCS is ready to help Richmond live life by dressing up while shopping 2nd hand 1st.
VOTE
NOW!Before the Banners
Construction barriers rarely provide clues as to what is going on behind them. Many times, the product of the noise, mess, and disturbance remains a mystery until the grand opening banners are hung. Before the Banners solves that problem by collecting information about a project’s progress from those closest to it. Users can track what stores, restaurants, and service providers are moving into their area like never before. Business owners get a unique way to promote their project. From the time the deal is struck to the time the “open” sign is turned on, Before the Banners is your source for all things “coming soon!” Check out our promo vid: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aAlJd8dePvs&feature=youtu.be
VOTE
NOW!Bard Unbound
"The purpose of playing is...to hold..the mirror up to nature.” Hold a mirror up to today’s technology driven society and you find a world in crisis. Our youth are proficient in technology, but without the 21st Century skills that guide it. Our secret weapon? Unleash the Bard! Superhero powers include: -releasing creativity -improving compassion -developing focus and concentration -promoting collaboration -encouraging problem solving -enhancing decision making - promoting self awareness -improving communication skills - encouraging PLAY! Through working with school systems, homeschool groups, PTAs and clubs we will spread the Bard with workshops, afterschool programs, residencies and more!
- VOTE
NOW!SchoolFund
In America today, there is almost $1 trillion in student debt outstanding. But for the most part, college students all get the same, one-size fits all loan policy subsidized by the federal government. SchoolFund is an independent marketplace that allows backers to invest in students who receive loans on their own terms. Hard working students can secure better rates by maintaining a top GPA, while budding entrepreneurs can select longer repayment periods customized to their situation. Backers will be provided pertinent information such as the student's school, area of study, GPA, and mission statement to judge credit worthiness. SchoolFund will open up a new market to investors, while improving the student loan experience for those seeking a higher education.
- VOTE
NOW!Virginia Hornets Inc.
VA. Hornets Inc. has emerged in 2013 as a newly formed Non-Profit Organization, with is a comprehensive program to continue providing services to the VA. Hornets, serve as trainers for youth, provide a higher level of competition play for youth, and expand sports as an industry to youth who feel they lack the physical aptitude to compete on higher levels. VA Hornets Inc. serves children, ages 5-18, in the Richmond Metro area. The focus of the program is to promote sustained youth sport participation and healthy development in youth in the sports industry, by fostering positive experiences.
- VOTE
NOW!Rapid Peer Review
University professors are one of our nation’s fastest growing occupations. The “publish or perish” mandate requires professors at research universities to publish their work in peer reviewed journals or lose their jobs. However, the journal review process can sometimes take up to two years for an article to get through the cycles of submission, feedback and resubmission before a manuscript is accepted for publication. Rapid Peer Review is a transformational web-based service that utilizes a special algorithm to match authors who wish to submit articles with verified expert peer reviewers who can provide critical up-front feedback significantly cutting the time an article spends in the journal pipeline. Why wait several months to receive valuable, time sensitive feedback from peers in your field when it could take as little as a few days? Now authors can get their articles published faster while expert peer reviewers earn extra income. Rapid Peer Review combines the latest web technology with the power of social media to solve an existing problem for many while creating opportunity for others to capitalize on their expertise, all the while creating a social benefit by improving the speed of knowledge dissemination – a triple win. To grow the customer base, Rapid Peer Review will integrate online peer-to-peer marketing efforts with conventional business development activities.
VOTE
NOW!Milton's Local Harvest
Sales of locally produced food account for over $8 billion annually in the United States. Buyers are demonstrating a commitment to purchasing high quality, sustainable products from local producers. Milton’s Local Harvest is a virtual marketplace that connects local farmers with institutional purchasers. With just one click, we provide a single online location that allows small and medium local farmers to provide their products to interested buyers such as schools, hospitals, universities, nursing homes and restaurants. Through our online platform, we broker sales, distribution and insurance, as well as provide inventory and sales management. Local. Sustainable. Convenient.
VOTE
NOW!John Alexander
John Alexander is an upscale mens clothing line, created to lead the fight against diabetes, poised to skyrocket awareness through fashion. The first business of its kind, offering large portions of revenues to the American Diabetes Association. John Alexander’s mission is to create clothing that represents “Compassionate Luxury,” making its wearers feel good about the clothing they wear and the fact that in choosing John Alexander products, they are making a difference in the world. John Alexander will offer dynamic clothing with an electric experience through viral fashion videos, complimented by intimate association and product placement with the American Diabetes Association, its united community, and its star-personality relationships.
VOTE
NOW!First Responder Prep LLC
Many existing chemical weapons may be identified by their unique odor. Using the best rub-for-scent technology available, I developed a training kit consisting of 8 scented chemical weapons ID cards. It is a new, innovative and important life safety training tool for first responders and scene managers, and is the first and only training product utilizing scent association technology for chemical weapon identification. Cards will be marketed via the internet, YouTube, trade shows and presentations, and mailers. We will be marketing our product to local, state and federal emergency management officials, as well as overseas governments.
- VOTE
NOW!Win Win Marketing
Last year Geoff Weathersby’s startup company, InLieu, won the I.E competition. With all his success Geoff still needed marketing help, and agencies were charging up to $40,000! Save your money and get in touch with a consultant at WinWin Marketing. WinWin Marketing is the value based marketing consultants firm. We’ll sit down with you and develop a unique strategy to ensure your startup is a success! Your first consultation is free! So what are you waiting for? Start winning by contacting WinWin Marketing at WinWinMkt@gmail.com
VOTE
NOW!Sir Bentley Art
Our pets hold a special place in our hearts. They give us unconditional love, entertain us and enrich our lives every day. Sir Bentley Art creates custom handmade likenesses of pets in clay, each piece created with love and attention to detail. A custom Sir Bentley Art piece makes a unique and memorable gift and will touch the heart of its recipient. Our target market is pet owners, animal lovers, art collectors and animal rescue groups. Social media is an excellent way to reach special interest groups like these, giving us an incredibly positive response to our product. http://www.sirbentleyart.com YouTube http://youtu.be/WEFXr44P3qY
VOTE
NOW!My Little Prayer Closet, LLC
We sell cabinet-style pieces of decorative furniture that convert into prayer kneelers. They're originally configured as waist-high, wood-grain cabinets on the top of which you can place decorations such as photos, candles, etc. However, you can also open the cabinet doors and fold out a padded bench to kneel down on for prayer. The product prevents the strain on knees and backs caused by kneeling on bare floors by providing structures for upright posture and cushioned platforms to kneel on. They will be primarily marketed through television and online campaigns on top national faith-based media properties.
VOTE
NOW!The Storytellers Channel
Restoring and elevating the rich tradition of storytelling is critical to building and sustaining stronger communities. The Storytellers Channel.com is a community-based incubator dedicated to addressing this problem. Storytellers pay to attend 6-weekly workshops. Their director and fellow participants collaborate to craft their stories and polish their performance. Participants sell tickets to local theater performances where they share their stories with their community. Performances are videoed and distributed through traditional and new media. Additional revenue comes from sponsorships, advertising, subscriptions and content sales. Storytellers receive appropriate royalties. This vision scales nationally with American Idol-esque potential.
VOTE
NOW!www.4labor.com
4Labor is an online job posting site that specializes in serving quality labor providers with qualified leads while delivering relevant search results
- VOTE
NOW!Bagel Buggy
How many times have you woken up and wished you could get a quality breakfast delivered right to your door? Our company Bagel Buggy seeks to solve that problem for the students living on-campus at the University of Richmond. Functioning as a weekend breakfast delivery service, Bagel Buggy brings quality breakfast options right to the doors of those who do not have the ingredients to cook or the energy to leave the comfort of their homes. Offering a variety of bagels and breakfast sandwiches and efficient delivery, Bagel Buggy both satisfies the morning food cravings and takes advantage of the morning lethargy many college students experience following a long night.
VOTE
NOW!MyRayFaves
Privacy, Discounts and Lifestyle: MyRayFaves is an internet business, based on two pending patents, that gives discounts, rewards and incentives to members of segments of similar people. At My RayFaves, NO credit card is ever required. MyRayFaves gets a small percentage of each transaction from manufacturers and retailers. Unlike traditional segmentation systems that use age and race (which people can’t control), MyRayFaves segments using a patented personality test, and user selected preferences of product and service. Manufacturers and retailers provide discounts and rewards to anonymous segment members based on member likes and dislikes. Members will try, and buy, products because they understand anonymous members of their segment have similar tastes. Try out the prototype demonstration system for yourself. Go to www.MyRayFaves.net. You will find "It's All About You." at MyRayFaves. Go to the YouTube video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oqEAT99xW8
VOTE
NOW!Livefeedr
Livefeedr connects you to the events you care about. Every day meaningful events pass disconnected from their most enthusiastic supporters. Our platform allows these supporters to virtually attend an event, through a livefeed, anywhere with Internet access. Events can range from sports games to conference speeches, public concerts to family gatherings. A livefeed is a place where an event transcends its location – participants from all over the world communicating and collaborating about a shared experience the very second it happens. Our platform (comprised of a website and mobile apps for iPhone and Android) is a medium for individuals to cover any event they are currently attending via text, photo, video and audio. For organizations and corporations, it is a more engaging way to present chronological event content – a means of cultivating a more connected audience. It's a social community for live events presented by anyone.
VOTE
NOW!Boho Cycle Studio
Boho Cycle Studio is Richmond’s only fitness studio specializing in and dedicated to indoor cycling. We have taken elements and ideas from yoga, mixed them with what it feels like to dance all night at a nightclub, and put it on a bike! Unlike big gyms that offer indoor cycling, we dedicate all of our energy to making every class an exceptional ride. We have created a format that is a full body conditioning experience, geared to riders at every fitness level. There are no contracts or commitments required as we operate on a pay per class model. We are dedicated to giving back to our community by promoting a healthy lifestyle. We provide discounted rides to students, fundraising rides for local charities, and healthy resources to riders and neighbors. Riding at Boho is not just a work out. It is an experience. A party on a bike! Clip in. Let go. Enjoy the ride.
VOTE
NOW!CycleStay
CycleStay is a personal bicycle lock with on-board security features. The lock is designed wearable technology to fasten around the waist or over the shoulder and has an audible alarm that sounds if it is ever cut while locked. Furthermore, the unit transmits a message in real-time via text message informing the bicycle owner of a security breach. Conceptualized with the daily bike commuter in mind, CycleStay connects with the 80% of people who say they would be inclined to bike more if they we're more comfortable with their bicycle security. The next generation of bicycle security is finally here.
VOTE
NOW!3Dreams Photography
3Dreams Photography is a full-service mobile photography business. 3Dreams clients have a photo studio available anywhere by taking advantage of our indoor or outdoor studios at their business, reunions, or weddings RAIN OR SHINE! Our outdoor studios are under closed-in canopies with two studios and lounge area with seats, props, and mirrors. Our indoor studio takes the headaches of “No time!” and “What to wear?” by bringing the studio to your home or office, letting your closet become the dressing room. 3Dreams also gives back with our “3D Plan”, giving organizations rebates when booking a session or recommending our packages.
- VOTE
NOW!WalkBack
WalkBack is a mobile and web application that helps friends “walk“ each other home at night, gives students easy access to emergency resources, and provides valuable data to university authorities to make more effective safety decisions. In this way, the WalkBack platform provides value by connecting two distinct user groups: student users of the mobile app and university officials. Free to student users, WalkBack will generate revenue from university customers who pay for an analytics platform for infrastructure planning. Leveraging social networks and providing these networks with communication & analytic tools creates a unique, bottom-up approach to enhancing campus safety.
VOTE
NOW!Limitless Thinking
Limitless Thinking is a speaking business seeking to target entrepreneurs ages 17-25 and those interested in developing leadership skills. A working day consists of developing the presentations and marketing strategy of the company. The business will reach its consumers through social media marketing, as well as referrals from speaking engagements. Limitless Thinking reaches the pain-point of inspiring others to have an economic impact in their city by starting up their business, and becoming an effective leader in their professional and social arenas. It is unique in its aim to create younger leaders and entrepreneurs to compete in today’s society.
VOTE
NOW!Speakeasy
For business owners who love customers, but hate Yelp, Speakeasy is a mobile application that provides real-time customer feedback and benchmark analytics. Speakeasy resolves problems privately, but pushes glowing reviews to social media. Typically, businesses get feedback from the extremes: their biggest fans or customers with an ax to grind. The majority of customers keep their opinions to themselves and simply vote with their wallets. Speakeasy helps businesses reach out and get this critical feedback with a simple survey, powerful analytics, and great design. Invite your customers to leave feedback at www.speasy.us. Quickly learn what your customers want more of -- and what they want you to get rid of -- but are too polite to say For the last two months we've proven this concept works and that business find the platform valuable. We've collected data at four RVA businesses and received feedback from over 100 customers. Our target customers are the bricks and mortar Main Street businesses that give each city its unique character, but don't have the resources that national franchises devote to customer research. Come to www.rvaspeakeasy.com and check out screenshots of the product we are building, or watch a fun, short video highlighting Speakeasy in action.
VOTE
NOW!Divine Advocates
Divine Advocates, DA, is a special education consulting and advocacy firm that seeks to create community coalitions by encouraging, educating, and empowering all community stakeholders regarding their ability to be effective advocates in the pursuit of academic, social, economic, vocational, physical, and emotional well being of the community at large. DA focuses on providing services to diverse populations that may not otherwise have the resources to access this level of support to establish meaningful partnerships that focus on meeting the needs of the entire community, especially communities struggling to support families with special needs.
VOTE
NOW!Rockstarter
Rockstarter seeks to find talented, entrepreneurial-minded college students, and place them in jobs at the region’s top start-ups. When asked what the most important element of success is, most entrepreneurs will respond “a great team”. Yet when it’s time to expand, entrepreneurs often find hiring the right people challenging. After all, what early stage start-up has a dedicated HR department? We seek to leverage hiring techniques used by leading consulting and technology firms to select only the top talent. Through Rockstarter, companies can expand their hiring pools and rest assured that all of our candidates will be top-notch performers.
VOTE
NOW!The Happy Frugal Home
Happy Frugal Home is on a mission to provide services that teach individuals to enjoy a life full of happiness while staying on a budget and in the moment. We provide revolutionary meal planning tools that focus on budget and health, subscription-based kid’s boxes filled with learning projects and crafts. Supported by a running blog on topics relating to health, happiness, kids, DIY and frugal living, we also plan to open a center in Richmond with open art space, classes that teach self-skills, services for working parents and a community garden.
VOTE
NOW!Married Life Entertainment (MLE)
MLE will become the first raindrop to create the initial groundswell of nationwide demand for “good clean fun” designed for married couples (of all ages & stages). We will be engineered to Enrich Marriages through Play (e.g. LIVE game shows, dancing, lighting & other “themed” attractions). Couples will come together to celebrate their marriage & take home the excitement. Our brand will offer a SOLUTION to one of the major risk factors for divorce – BOREDOM! We will bring the “complete show” to clients with intrinsic interest in making marriages/families work (i.e. faith communities, organizations, celebrities & other communities).
VOTE
NOW!Wise Transitions Consulting
Last year my family moved my grandma into assisted living. It ended up being a much more time-consuming and stressful process than we expected. Wise Transitions Consulting fills the gap that many are struggling with daily. Constantly, local individuals and their families have to move loved ones to assisted living facilities with little knowledge of the process. With so many options available, it is challenging to determine in a timely and efficient manner which new home best suits their needs. Wise Transitions is here to make this easier for everyone. We offer a one-on-one in-depth evaluation of what you are looking for and where you will fit best. Wise Transitions offers assistance not only with the selection process, but also with paperwork, moving, and visitation, allowing you to cherish your precious moments together as a family. Because it isn't just a move; it’s a transition.
VOTE
NOW!Richmond Autism Connection
Richmond Autism Connection aims to create a 21st century work environment that caters to the needs of its employees with autism spectrum disorders. Many people on the spectrum offer unique skills to their employers such as attention to detail, exceptional memories, and a talent for excelling at repetitive tasks; however, they are chronically unemployed or underemployed due to social barriers. By developing a client base of Richmond companies in need of data entry, quality assurance, and other time consuming tasks, adults with autism will join the workforce in a capacity that suits their individual skills and interests. Visit www.rva-autism.com to learn more. Executive Summary
VOTE
NOW!DiaMens
You are my super hero! I’ve been looking for you for a long time. You get me out of bed to workout when I rather sleep. You support healthy lifestyle choices. You understand. I love seeing you at weekly meetings and I am impressed with your swagger, attitude and experience. Keep sending the tweets. I love the Facebook page. Being a member of the League of DiaMens makes it okay to talk about health challenges. Through programs… I know how to cook healthy food, find physical activity right for me, and care for myself. I no longer struggle alone. I’m glad I found the League of DiaMens at my high school and on college campuses. Fellow league members mentor me with their experience. DiaMens offers healthy lifestyle programs. It encourages me to implement healthy choices between medical appointments. The League of DiaMens is where I connect with a diabetes mentors and find support to make healthy choices. You’re a lifesaver.
VOTE
NOW!Feast RVA
Feast RVA was incorporated in September of 2012. Our goal is to provide a platform to raise awareness and funding for creative and community initiatives. Since our inception, Feast RVA has awarded over $3,000. As we become a 501(c)(3) Non-profit, we look forward to further solidifying Feast RVA in Richmond. It’s an exciting time in RVA. Technology, awareness, timing; many aspects have contributed to the vibrancy in the city. Feast RVA exists to encourage this energy. Our engaged and diverse attendees allow the opportunity for powerful ideas to spread through the community. Feast RVA - Bringing ideas to the table.
- VOTE
NOW!Byrd's Nest
My business would create scalable urban aquaponic farms in the City. The initial site would be a working educational/demonstration facility that would grow fish (talapia),herbs tomatoes, lettuce and collards,etc. It would teach and consult citizens on how to build sustainable aquaponic farms in urban environments, edify entreprenurial and science skills as to the business of food supply, and preparation, and promote the use of technology (ie. solar and computers) to enhace the efficient delivery of the products locally. This business is totally green and energy efficient. It will promote jobs, retail and wholesale business alliances (restaurants, transportation, grocers),provide services (food and training), have profound social impacts (wellness) as well as being profitable, while raising the quality of life for the City as a whole.
VOTE
NOW!Campus À La Carte
Do you love a good home cooked meal? Campus À La Carte is proposing a home away from home dining option with a healthy twist. By offering weekly, easily accessible, dine-in take-out dinners on campus, University of Richmond students will be able to enjoy healthy and satisfying $10 dinners. We will reach our target market through positive word of mouth, email blasts, and flyers around campus. As our business grows we will offer meals Monday through Friday and open up to college campuses across the nation. We hope to become a healthy stable across the nation.
VOTE
NOW!Success Without Limitations Inc.
One of the many goals of Success Without Limitations (SWL) is to bring Richmond college graduates below the 53% national rate of underemployment and unemployment. By utilizing workshops, lectures, and e-mentoring facilitated by established professionals, SWL instills in college students the necessary intangible skills needed to succeed post graduation. SWL strengthens social enterprise, cultivates career development, and establishes cohesive relationships simultaneously while encouraging student acts of humanitarianism. In addition, we develop peer led educational activities, by creating service learning programs for high school students to aid in their transition from high school to college conducted by currently enrolled college students.
VOTE
NOW!Coffitivity, LLC
Coffitivity.com streams the ambient sounds from a coffee shop right to our users' desktop or mobile device. After reading research from the Journal of Consumer Research, the Coffitivity team identified a need to remote access to ambient sound that is proven to be conducive to creative cognition. With that, Coffitivity was born! With the recent exposure of Coffitivity, we have had several demands from our users about the expansion of services on our site. The first, will allow users to find their favorite cafe or browse others from around the country as participating coffee shops deliver their unique experience, virtually. Following applications will include, browser extensions and mobile apps.
VOTE
NOW!Gandzee
Gandzee styles entire wardrobe collections for babies and kids and delivers them to busy moms and dads in one magical box. With the click of a single button, you get a season's worth of high-quality, fashion-forward clothing, comparable to what you'd find in a high-end department store or boutique. Mix and match the box's contents with basic staples your child already owns (think khakis, jeans and tights) and you'll get even more incredible outfits out of the deal. Shopping for kids clothes has never been this easy... or this fun!
VOTE
NOW!3rd Sensation
3rd Sensation…enables you to add the effect of vibration to video and movie content. First there were silent movies which used the sense of sight, and then the second sense was added, the sense of hearing. Now the 3rd Sensation is available, the sense of touch. Now you can…”Feel the Image”. Third Sensation enhanced video engages multiple senses on the phone, the tablet and the TV remote. Imagine capturing video on your phone and adding vibration events which coincide with the action moments. Now sharing the action via Twitter or on your Facebook page includes vibration to heighten the experience. Your baby boy jumps up and down in his crib, each time his feet lands you add a vibration event…now your friends can feel the baby jumping via video. 3rd Sensation Mobile advertising entertains and engages your customer with the sense that they can feel your message. An Interactive opportunity: artwork with a QR code and 3rd Sensation enhanced video creates product shirts or posters which invite you to “feel the Image” the motorcycle roar, the cat’s meow or even the blooper moment.
VOTE
NOW!Love This
Love This is a mobile shop that will travel around Richmond promoting responsibly crafted products. We identify changemakers with an eye for design that have direct connections to talented hands. Our curated collection of quality accessories, clothing and home decor cultivates social, environmental and economic well-being. At Love This you can shop with purpose while embracing your style. https://www.facebook.com/lovethisrva?ref=hl
VOTE
NOW!CARP2US
How many times have you had a vexing customer service experience? You want to make yourself heard, you want resolution, but you don’t have the time. CARP2US provides the fix. We allow customers to “carp” and bring businesses into the conversation. CARP2US leverages the immediacy, efficiency, and engagement of social media, tied together by a kick-ass smart phone app. Plus, we add a bit of entertainment value to balance the karma and keep users interested. Just tap a button on your smartphone’s screen to let the business (and your friends) know how you feel. Your phone knows where you are and makes it easy to provide feedback with a couple of clicks. Tap a CARP2US NFC chip or scan a CARP2US QRC posted by a business to start the process. Engage at any level…from simply clicking one button to rate your experience…all the way to posting a full-out rant that can include text, audio and video. Civility is required, humor is encouraged. Businesses immediately receive your comment and get a chance to respond directly through CARP2US. See which businesses are getting carps…and how well they resolve them. Complain constructively…CARP2US!
VOTE
NOW!TownDoorstep
PROBLEM: Shopping local is hard! It's time consuming, driving dependent and how about those holiday parking wars? Shopping online is convenient, mobile, product variety is endless and you can wear your pajamas. So, independent retailers suffer, businesses close, and cities have massive commercial vacancies. SOLUTION: TownDoorstep.com, where local, brick-and-mortar businesses can set up virtual storefronts and sell merchandise on a joint ecommerce site. Now, instead of browsing through Amazon items and sellers, consumers can browse through local items and sellers. Many websites use the “power in numbers” model; crafters gather and sell on Etsy.com, pet rescuers promote furry friends on Petfinders.com, even garage sale warriors have Craiglist.org. Why shouldn't local, brick-and-mortar businesses have a place to join forces and sell products? RESULT: Local businesses increase their customer base, expand marketing opportunities, gain additional income, and utilize local cross promotion. Localities regain sales tax revenue, commercial districts thrive and consumers can shop local…online! www.towndoorstep.com
VOTE
NOW!RockARoma
Rock-A-Roma is fun for all! Adults can enjoy making natural bath salts and scented aromatherapy rocks. While youth customers learn to make rock candy, rock themed decorations, and learn about the diverse rocks in Virginia. Rock-A-Roma will teach entrepreneurial and business methods to teens in the Richmond area. The concept steamed from the Children Entrepreneurs Securing Success (C.H.E.S.S.) Foundation a non-profit organization that extracts leadership, ambition, and success out of youth and guide them to favorable outcomes. Rock-A-Roma will be a collective, where Richmond teens are hired to manage and operate the business in order to put theory into application. Check out our video RockARoma.com
VOTE
NOW!Modern Barter Inc.
ModernBarter.net is an Internet bartering context provider that allows individuals and organizations to exchange their goods and services, called commodities, without money involved. ModernBarter.net reinvents bartering and overcomes traditional bartering limitations by allowing exchanges between unlimited number of parties in asynchronous manner. It also serves as the outlet for must-sell commodities (soon expired groceries, unreserved hotel rooms, any items at home or office etc.). With ModernBarter.net, customers search and “buy” commodities and post and trade in their commodities asynchronously.
VOTE
NOW!Simply Grace, llc
One dress, with endless possibilities! Simply Grace manufactures quality children's clothing that is unique and versatile. The children who have inspired this company are beautiful creations of a loving God entrusted to us for a time, simply by grace. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Prh3eCVWbN0
VOTE
NOW!Soymilker Inc.
Soymilker sells soy milk extractor to make soy milk manually at home. Making soy milk is a 4-step process: (1) soak soybeans for 5+ hours in water; (2) grind the soaked soybeans with a blender; (3) extract the milk, (4) boil the milk. The product is the soy extractor. Available soymilk-maker operates like a coffee-maker, making one cup at a time in 15 minutes. With our product you can make 24 cups at a time in less than an hour. With one pound of soybeans, you get one and half gallons of soymilk, costing less than a dollar per gallon milk.
- VOTE
NOW!Kelly's Professional Business Services
Kelly's Professional Business Services provides Accounting,Bookkeeping and Financial services. KPBS also specializes in Income Tax preparation and in representing clients before Federal and State departments of Taxation. Clients are solicited thru referals,advertising on local media and newspapers.
VOTE
NOW!True Fitness Solutions
Since 1995 three high school football players have died on average every year. The number one cause of Exertional Heat Stroke is High Intensity exercise combined with a low peak VO2 score. True Fitness Solutions is a company that provides education, evaluation and an exercise prescription that enforces what the medical field is saying when they state "Exertional heat stroke is 100% preventable". We evaluate players Peak VO2 and provide an individual program to improve their aerobic strength. By offering the True Fitness Solutions service to all Football programs, we can bring the cutting edge information that is evidence based on thermal regulation at a cost effective price. The National Athletic Trainers Position Statement under the non-environmental risk factors, defines Poor Physical Condition as “the VO2 max of the individual improves, the ability to withstand heat stress improves independent of acclimatization and heat adaption."
VOTE
NOW!RVAPASS
RVAPASS - Metro without the digging Richmond has too many single occupancy vehicle trips increasing traffic and threatening our air quality. Public transit usage is low. Many visitors have difficulty getting around Richmond. Building a metro is expensive and disruptive. RVAPASS is a “virtual” metro. Using nifty smartphone apps, the system will let you locate, hail, reserve, and pay for public transportation on the RVAPASS network of Richmond’s buses, trolleys, bikes, car-shares, Segways, limos, and more. RVAPASS will give you options to get wherever you are going across providers. The system will be paid for with a slice of the vendor fares for the reservations. Frequent users get rebates. The result is a “virtual” metro transit system without the digging. Visit RVAPASS.com, our facebook page,or watch our short video
VOTE
NOW!LiveSeed
So your friend is an artist and you're a musician. You both want to find an online network to post and share your work. There's plenty of these around so you have no problem finding them. But let's say you guys want to interact in one place or with other creative people to post, share, sell, and blog about your work. What if you do music and photography? Or graphic design? Or you even design clothing? Creative people like this should be in one place to share their work, not separated by interest specific websites across the web. And if you have more than one creative interest to showcase you should be able to combine all of those passions on a platform that is designed for that very purpose. LiveSeed.com serves as that platform. It brings creatives to one user friendly hub where they can do anything from organizing a portfolio to selling their work and blogging about their experiences. At LiveSeed.com, we inspire creativity.
VOTE
NOW!Optimum Ed
Families face a tremendous financial challenge in helping their children gain the leverage of higher education. They are confronted with a number of tough questions: Should their child go to a four-year university or a career college? Will they be able to afford their education? Will their child find a job? Are they making the right decisions? Optimum Ed is here to help. As early as middle school, we work with families to map out the path to the right education and a rewarding career. We help them evaluate all their options and manage the student’s progress. We consult one on one with the parents and student at the Optimum Ed Center. We’re your advocate from start to finish and push for what is right for your family. Optimum Ed is your partner in the education and career selection process.
VOTE
NOW!Bramble Hill
Did you know that most flowers you purchase these days are almost always from another country? The chemicals they use, the way in which they travel to the US are left to our imagination. The same goes with our food supply. According to the EPS less than 1% claim farming as an occupation. The interest in farming as a profession is becoming a lost art. Especially floraculture. In a 2011 article in Smithsonian Magazine this quote stuck out: "A 1981 survey of almost 9,000 flower workers by scientists from Colombia, France and Britain found that the work had exposed people to as many as 127 different chemicals, mostly fungicides and pesticides. (One incentive to use pesticides: the U.S. Department of Agriculture checks imported flowers for insects, but not for chemical residues.) A 1990 study by Colombia’s National Institute of Health (NIH) suggested that pregnant Colombian flower workers exposed to pesticides might have higher rates of miscarriages, premature births and babies with congenital defects." My dream and goal is to start an organic farm growing flowers and produce. Planting extra food for my community that may need an extra meal. Teaching/holding classes on the “how and why” we should all be paying close attention to our food supply and where it is sourced from and how to grow our own food. I would like to sell flowers, food and baked goods at the local Farmers Markets as well. My biggest obstacle? Land. As a suburban girl each year I find myself asking friends and family for a patch of land to grow my garden on. I would love to have my very own piece of dirt with which to grow my dream.
VOTE
NOW!And Dim Sum
Fresh... Fast... Fun... And Dim Sum! And Dim Sum is RVA’s premier westernized dumpling food cart. Far from the hum-drum dim sum experiences currently offered in RVA, the seasonal noodles, teas, salads and a variety of dim sum -- like the Punk-N-Dump (pumpkin-flavored dumpling), Chocolate Chipotle Bacon spring rolls, and S’more Wontons -- sets us apart and appeals to foodies, vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free diets. We cater to customer’s palates, wallets and time-constraints by offering fresh, sustainable, locally-sourced food, daily specials, and catering. Flyers, mailers, e-mail, word-of-mouth, events, viral marketing, trendsetters and social networking sites will promote the business.
- VOTE
NOW!Cannon's Seafork Bistro and Catering
A small eat in and carry out restaurant. The design is what makes it so special and the food is a Blessing! All Hot Vegetables are on display (at least 8-9 healthy choices) , nothing like it in Richmond. Home cook meals and seafood specialties, perfect for eat in or on the go. I owned a pretty successful food business back in the 80's. People are still craving our wet batter for fried hard-shell and soft-shell crabs, Seafood Gumbo, the best baked and fried chicken you will ever eat! I am constantly ask to cater dinners for folk! Just one taste and you will be "Blessed". Everything is one of a kind and cannot be duplicated anywhere! All recipes are from my family and our VA Beach heritage! Business consultants in the past stated that I ran an impeccable business on all levels.We have minimal start -up cost and very little waste. We were asked to franchise constantly. Location is key to our ability to reach all our consumers. Right now I'm feeding folk out of my home because the demand is so great! Our artful display of our food follows the concept, "it taste as good as it looks!" Lastly this business runs on honesty, integrality and high ethical standards, and I would never go into business if it would not make money! Richmond needs a place like this, on the riverfront, our in Varina where there is little to no food, Downtown for visitors to our great city can taste that Southern Experience and Great Tasting Seafood!!
VOTE
NOW!Auxano Enterprises
As small businesses in competitive markets, it is critical to build strong relationships with both employees and clients. Improving loyalty may be the reason your business stays in business! At Auxano, we provide crucial solutions to strengthen and build client and employee relationships for all size businesses in order to help them differentiate themselves in highly competitive market space. We bring together companies from multiple product lines to provide innovative 'thank you' and recognition gifts that provide cost effective, unique ways to continue growing long term relationships by giving the recipient a memorable choice in what they recieve.
VOTE
NOW!Refersal, Inc
A brand’s customers opt-in to placing ads in their own social feeds creating an authentic referral and these same customers are rewarded when their friends and followers click on the links. Consumers earn redeemable rewards for their favorite products and services. Brands receive authentic referrals, improve sales conversions through on-line channels, lower acquisition costs, and increase customer loyalty. Agencies gain expanded social advertising solutions and simplified, multi-channel campaign management capabilities. Refersal: Share. Promote. Reward.
VOTE
NOW!StayCaze.com
Staycaze.com is an internet service providing customizable vacation experiences close to home. The idea originated to address the frustrations with leisure travel from rising airfares, baggage fees, and gas prices to airport security and traffic woes. The benefit StayCaze.com provides is three-fold, it: offers affordable vacation options; impacts local economy by encouraging localized vacations; and promotes small businesses. What distinguishes us from other staycation websites? StayCaze.com is the only one-stop staycation marketplace. The other sites are, at best, listings or directories. We offer a customizable experience and save consumers money through discounts offered by partnering with small businesses.- VOTE
NOW!alley cat bicycles
Selling and repairing Bicycles for the down town Richmond area. All kinds of bicycles repaired and sold.
- VOTE
NOW!Tasty Tranquility
Do you enjoy pampering yourself? Do you take pride in what you put in and on your body? Tasty Tranquility is a full body salon and spa that uses fresh fruits and vegetables to achieve what chemical products do, without sacrificing the luxuries of a high end salon and spa experience. More people are becoming aware of what they put in their bodies and Tasty Tranquility allows a healthier option to what goes on your skin. Through the internet, working with local farmers, and businesses we will continue to educate and promote a healthier lifestyle.
VOTE
NOW!The Tipsy Sommelier, A Wine Lovers Company
The Tipsy Sommelier is a sustainably designed wine shoppe/wine-on-tap lounge with a primary goal of supporting the Virginia winery community and local commerce. We plan to be the go-to retailer of Virginia, organic and boutique wines. We will offer only the most highly rated yet affordable wines from around the world. Our sustainable practices include purchasing much of our wine in barrels and packaging them for sale in paper cartons along with offering the traditional wine in bottles. We will prepare our meals using locally made and organically grown ingredients. We plan to follow LEED practices in the design of our wine shoppe, using the most energy efficient systems, equipment and appliances, recycled and low VOC materials, daylighting as well as others. So many customers select wine by chance or label image and many are uncomfortable inquiring about wine, so we’ve created an environment where the world of wine is unpretentious, easily understood, appreciated and enjoyed. Our services include in-store and at-home wine classes, wine tastings, and Virginia winery tours. We also offer custom wine gifts and delivery. Our goal is to be that comfortable wine shoppe and lounge where our customers want to visit and hang out and does so often. Believe me, you’ll come in as a customer and leave as a friend. Visit us at: http://ttswine.com/ Or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Tipsy-Sommelier-Wine-Classes-Gifts-Virginia-Winery-Tours/299391753449209?ref=hl
VOTE
NOW!RED management group llc
RED management group is a full service results-driven event management company, newly established to services the Greater Richmond area. Our number one goal is always to exceed every client's anticipation for any event. Whether working with a large corporation or a intimate dinner party RED will handle every detail to design and execute the perfect event for your occasion. When managing an event, we work closely with every client to understand their objectives and expectations. This helps us create an expert solution that not only delivers a powerful experience for the guests, but also provides long-lasting results for our client. We take the hassle out of your event! To learn more visit us at www.redmanagement-events.com - Like us at https://www.facebook.com/redevents12
VOTE
NOW!Richmond Food Cooperative
The Richmond Food Cooperative will be a member-owned full service grocery store providing affordable, local, sustainable and healthy food options. Membership means ownership at the Co-op, which operates for the mutual benefit of all member/owners. Cooperatives offer a unique economic model that is focused on keeping money local and is grounded in a sense of social responsibility. The Co-op will grow its membership base utilizing grassroots marketing and outreach strategies, targeting people who are committed to growing a healthy Richmond community and supporting local farms and businesses. Visit our website at www.richmondfoodcoop.com and watch our member video here.
VOTE
NOW!RVA Water Services
RVA Water Services is a water based energy efficiency company focused on providing a water and sewer usage reduction program for multi-family properties by analyzing current usage and installing effective and efficient fixtures. These fixtures will be installed at no cost to the current owners with water and sewer charge savings split between owner and RVA Water Services over a fixed term. This model allows the owner to see positive cash flow from the beginning of the project and not requiring any capital outlay. Current technology allows for efficient fixtures to greatly outperform older products. RVA Water Services is a member of Energy Star Portfolio Manager Program.
- VOTE
NOW!Va. Hornets Inc.
VA. Hornets Inc. has emerged in 2013 as a newly formed Non-Profit Organization, with is a comprehensive program to continue providing services to the VA. Hornets, serve as trainers for youth, provide a higher level of competition play for youth, and expand sports as an industry to youth who feel they lack the physical aptitude to compete on higher levels. VA Hornets Inc. serves children, ages 5-18, in the Richmond Metro area. The focus of the program is to promote sustained youth sport participation and healthy development in youth in the sports industry, by fostering positive experiences. VA. Hornets Inc. also gives the organizational structure needed to support all the programs but allows them to have separate teams of boards of directors that report to one governing body, VA. Hornets Inc.. VA Hornets Inc. is the parent Governing Authority and Non-Profit 501c3 organization for all Virginia Hornets Organizations, Virginia Hornets is an independent non-profit 501c4 organization, The VA. Jr. Hornets is an independent 501c3 Reach Program is an independent 501c3 VA Hornets Inc. anticipates renting office space in a central Metro Richmond location, The Boulders, in Chesterfield, VA. VA. Hornets Inc. will. purchase a warehouse and 15 +acres of land to be transformed into a central sports training facility and work out complex and stadium . The location of the site is 6809 Midlothian Turnpike Richmond, VA 23225 located on the Southside of Richmond VA, in the 9th ward. It is centrally located to Chippenham Parkway (150), which gives access to US interstate 95. This will be the only sports performance location site on Southside of the city of Richmond, serving both the 8th and 9th district. Program Objectives • Build the VA. Hornets Inc. Training and Fitness Facility. • Create a model of solid training technique in a variety of sports for kids starting ages 5 to 18 • Create a clearing house and certification program that emphasizes ethics, diversity fairness, sportsmanship and basic sport knowledge for coaches. • Educate and garner support from local lawmakers, medical field, and businesses on creating healthy communities through sports. • Create community events, sports competitions and healthy Sports Campaigns to further ”healthy communities” through physical development. • Maintaining a high approval rate with the area's parents and youth.
- VOTE
NOW!Wooddland Farms
We are trying to be a sustainable farm. We primarily grow herbs and crops that can be used to make products that can be preserved for later use. We make soaps, infused oils and preserve fresh vegetables and fruits. This year we are expanding to include sorghum for sugar and syrups. We would like to expand to be able to offer workshops in soap making and the preservation of locally grown foods.
VOTE
NOW!Winning The Training Game
If you have ever experienced ‘death by power point’ or ‘snooze by lecture’ you will be excited to learn of an innovative tool that takes training to the next level! If you have ever received or produced training, you know that the trend over the last several years has been to put people – isolated and stranded - in front of a computer screen. Now - finally - a paradigm shift in training!
Winning The Training Game is an oversized board game (literally four feet by five feet) that brings people back together to learn. Everything about the game is big: big dice – big playing pieces – big cards – big board. 8 -12 people play together. Players will answer tough questions, formulate approaches, uncover strengths and share best practices. Unlike board games of your childhood, participants play in teams, so collaboration and creative thinking, flourish.
In the game, a team lands on a question square and are then asked one of the 130 questions. The game becomes an assessment tool unlike anything you have experienced as teams work together to answer challenging scenarios and express positions. An example of a typical question: “Name three ways you can keep yourself motivated.” A judge then decides the value of the answer and rewards with ‘big bucks’. Insightful answers are provided for the game facilitator and 30 blank cards are included for an organization to add its own questions. The game can be used again and again for hours of valuable training Focused engagement and knowledge injection and increased retention are some key takeaways.
This innovative system can be used in every possible setting from the classroom to the boardroom. It can be administered as a large corporate team building or on boarding session as well as sustained scheduled sessions with small groups or classes. It can also be customized to fit any curriculum in a school setting as well as injected with corporate strategy and methodology for sustaining the mission and goals of the company.
VOTE
NOW!Taste By State
We all associate certain foods with certain states, like peanuts and ham from Virginia. No one thinks of Kansas and peanuts or Maine and ham. What if you’re from Virginia now living in Kansas? How would you get well known Virginia Hubs peanuts? Maybe you’re in Maine and want some Edwards Virginia Country ham. How about a gift basket filled with Virginia made food specialties for your Kansas and Maine friends? Welcome to TasteByState.com , a unique, one-stop, online marketplace that connects you directly with state-specific specialty foods, gift baskets, and iconic meals from ALL 50 states! Like us on Facebook
VOTE
NOW!Play In School - College Bus Tours
Play In School is in the business of helping student athletes achieve their dreams of playing their sport in college. For competitive high school athletes that want to play their chosen sport in college, there are no lack of scouting/recruiting events. In fact, most athletes spends countless weekends at showcases around the region or country playing in front of coaches. What is lacking is the time to actually SEE a variety of schools. Play In School - College Bus Tours makes it as easy as possible to see a ton of schools in a short amount of time. Not only will the athletes see the schools, but the tours will be given by the coaching staff of each school! These trips are designed to give the athlete a broader knowledge base in order to figure out what they are looking for out of a college. Thus helping them target market specific types of schools that they may want to attend. www.PlayInSchool.com/bus_tour www.twitter.com/PlayInSchool
VOTE
NOW!EventSpace
When planning an event, choices for venue normally come down to hotel ballrooms and country clubs. It's time to do better. With Venuable, you can find the perfect space to fit your event, rather than having to change your event to fit a space. Venuable is a hub that connects those planning extraordinary events with unique spaces to match. With a wide range of locales and guides to help narrow your search, you're sure to find exactly what you're looking for, all in the style, size, location, and budget you want. And if you own a space, whether it's a riverfront property, sleek office space, or even a cozy restaurant, we can make it Venuable--and more profitable. All you have to do is tell us what you have and where, we'll take care of the rest. Simply, Venuable lets people search, book, and list event spaces all in one place. We're giving the power back to the planners. Unlimited venues, zero compromises.
VOTE
NOW!Columbia Graphics & Printing
In my work in mental health, I have realized that many peers, (people with mental health issues), are stuck due to barriers to employment. Many peers with a diagnosis have highly developed creativity due to overwhelming life circumstances. Columbia Graphics & Printing seeks to tap into the creativity of peers, by empowering them with laptops, software and education in order to employ them as graphic artists. Peers would learn the tools of graphic art so they can freelance in the community and feed print work to Columbia Graphics & Printing. Ideally there would be around 40 peers all over Virginia creating print-ready graphics. Each peer would either sell their work or be partnered with a sales associate in their region. Marketing would be focused on the Community Service Boards (CSBs) across Virginia (there are 40). Each CSB region would have a peer nearby who would supply their graphic needs and promote the work of the local peer. These contacts would be the focus of our marketing strategy. Once a peer is hired for a particular region, then that CSB would be formally introduced to their peer contact so that business networking could begin. Funding this program would help many people get on their feet and go a long way toward eliminating the stigma of mental illnesses.
VOTE
NOW!Checkit
We all have milestones we hope to reach throughout our lives, whether it’s starting a family, taking on certain career roles, traveling to places we’ve never been, or taking personal adventures. But how do we go about reaching these goals? Do we tell someone? Write them down? What if you forget? Or lose your list? So, what about a bucket list for the very tech-savvy 21st century? One that travels with us, evolves with us, and grows with us? Checkit is a mobile application that allows you to organize, plan, and share your bucket list. We want to enable individuals to experience the most memorable moments of their lives.
VOTE
NOW!RVA Farms
RVA Farms will operate an urban farm in the city of Richmond, Virginia that sells fresh organic fruits and vegetables in food deserts. Our urban farm will feature hoop houses, an outdoor demonstration garden and learning pavilion. We will be Richmond’s first urban farm B-Corporation. Richmond has 12 USDA designated food deserts, and a poverty level of 25%. RVA Farms will market to these communities using pop-up farmer's markets that accept SNAP and WIC, culinary arts classes and other culturally relevant programming. We will also market to local restaurants, grocery stores and feature a CSA for the city.
VOTE
NOW!Producia
College students face the following challenges: 1. Little to no experience in their desired career fields 2. No one stop source to find a diversity of talents on campus 3. Short on cash 4. Transitioning into a tough job market (In April 2012, The Associated Press reported that 1 in 2 college grads were underemployed or unemployed.) Our startup, Producia, was developed to help solve these problems by utilizing technology for social good. Imagine a Craigslist for college students that uses a digital, time-based currency called Fini instead of dollars (concept is called time banking), and also had a startup program to help college students create jobs they love & improve the local community. That's what we're developing with our startup, Producia, which is the fun, campus-based marketplace with a cause. We have created partnerships with several student organizations at Virginia Commonwealth University and have started a 3 month pilot project to test out our model on campus.
- VOTE
NOW!Bright Future
My business is mainly targeting the middle school Chinese students who are willing to studying in U.S for high school. Based on my abroad experience, I noticed that most of those middle school students do not know much about the process of getting a student visa (F1) from the United States embassy. So, their parents usually pay a very high amount for an agent to help them do the job. Those agents not only charges in an extremely high amount, but they also like to involve many unnecessary fess such as high school application and host family fee. According to my research, most of the parents only want to find an agent who could help them on visa application only. So it makes me have the idea of doing this business, providing application service to those targeting clients with a much lower price.
VOTE
NOW!RVA Rain Systems
RVA Rain Systems does assessments and installs rain-harvesting systems for residential properties. These sustainable landscape installations give homeowners control of a most valuable resource- water. Our "active" rain systems give you a backup supply of water for regular hose use, irrigation, etc. It looks like a peaceful waterfall or decorative fountain once installed. Later this summer, when watering restrictions come out, you can stick it to the man and look good doing it! Visual appeal is a high priority- don't want to upset the H.O.A. ;) Attractive and functional, we deliver the benefits of harvesting rain without sacrificing useable outdoor living space or visual appeal of the landscape. Our "passive" rain harvesting systems(rain gardens) use high-tech modern landscape products combined with good old-fashioned plants to manage storm water. Rain gardens solve problems of drainage, erosion, and storm water runoff. Our installations can be considered "Best management Practices", which could earn you credits on Storm Water Runoff Fees, LEED points for green builders, or James River Association's "River Hero" home award. RVA Rain Systems- Taking Virginia By Storm!
VOTE
NOW!The Batchery | Custom Craft Beer
The Batchery creates impeccable quality, tiny-batch, custom craft beers. We’re charting new territory for a brewing concern by completely sidestepping the retail hustle and ignoring the bar scene. Instead we create one-of-a-kind beers in collaboration with our clients for special events (WE LOVE WEDDINGS), custom contexts, and the intrepid members of our CSZ (that's Community Supported Zymurgy). We address two enduring desires among our customers: the desire for uniquely customized products and the desire for authentic collaborative experiences. Guided by the core principles of sustainability, community-building, open-sourcing, and a DIY Ethic we passionately pursue our mission—to brew the perfect beer for each and every occasion. Learn more at http://www.batchery.org | Follow us on Twitter @BatcheryBeer | Like us on Facebook
VOTE
NOW!igor
igor (egor) is an acronym for Interactive Gaming Organized Rewards. We at igor believe that gamification can be used as a solution to many of the problems found in society today. Our mission is to use an incentive based system that reward individuals for completing goals, making even the most mundane tasks feel like fun. Using basic game mechanics coupled with core educational values, we are able to address and solve important issues found within the education system. Interactive learning is the most effective teaching method known, so through the power of gaming we plan to make a positive impact on education.
VOTE
NOW!Wood Grain & Lace Wedding Boutique
Richmond is a city filled with fashion-forward, trendy women, yet there aren't any bridal shops that serve as a balance between a chain store and an upscale salon. All of these stores also stop at the dress and don't offer a full-service experience to help brides make the most of talented, local vendors and help them stay under-budget. I want to change that. From rockabilly-chic, vintage-inspired, goth, plus-sized, to older brides, Richmond women deserve the traditional gown shopping experience in a boutique that that suits their needs AND their budget. Let's make Richmond a wedding destination and make it easier to embrace local vendors, dress your bridal party in something they'll actually wear again and allow a Type-A wedding addict make your planning process a little easier.
VOTE
NOW!The Daley Grind
A coffee delivery service that delivers home made lattes, cappuccinos, espresso, and coffee to local people around Richmond. People can make orders and then the drinks will be delivered to them in a timely manner. All drinks are homemade from natural materials.
