Your FREE Business Navigator

Our Institute provides free and focused entrepreneurial/business counseling, advisory, and support services to our clients through robust, inclusive, and compliant programs to foster economic development for the Middle Atlantic region.

Our Impact

$200M

Economic Impact

36

Startups Launched

309

Jobs Created

$905k

Business Loans Secured

Your guide to government contracting success. APEX helps small businesses navigate the federal, state, and local procurement process, from registration to proposal development.

Helping Virginia entrepreneurs and businesses develop and grow. BDC provides personalized business advising services, training workshops, mentoring, and adaptive general support.

Serving those who’ve served. The VBOC provides veterans, service members, and military spouses with entrepreneurial training, business counseling, and access to contracting opportunities.

Empowering women entrepreneurs through training, mentorship, and support. The WBC helps women start, manage, and grow successful businesses in every industry.

Where innovation meets opportunity. OpenSeas connects startups and technology ventures with mentors, research expertise, and investors to help bring new ideas to market.

Helping veterans turn their military experience into business success. Double TAP provides on-the-job entrepreneurship training, mentorship, and technical assistance for transitioning service members and veterans.

OUR Startup Programs

We link local businesses to the vast resources, expertise, and technology at ODU.

Free Life exists to prove that some of life’s most memorable moments happen not because alcohol is present, but because genuine human connection is.”

Culbertson Contracting, LLC, led by Rachael Culbertson, is a successful contracting firm specializing in site preparation. With contracts on Naval Station Norfolk, this small firm was recognized by the SBA as the 2026 Blue Collar Small Business of the Year.”

Thank you for the work you are doing and for creating opportunities that truly make a difference.”

Our team is committed to delivering superior craftsmanship, completing every project on time and within budget.”

The ODU Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship was instrumental in connecting Oculus Rail with our tech partner, Portsmouth-based Port Solution Integrators. I started the company in early 2024 with an idea but needed the talent to execute. After looking nationwide, I found a great partner in our backyard with PSI, but I wouldn’t have known about them had ODU not connected the dots for me.”

ODU gave me the foundation and the community to turn ideas into impact. From the Strome Center to today, I’m grateful for how this university continues to support alumni entrepreneurs who want to make a difference.”

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events at this time. Check back again soon!

Meet OUR Counselors

Tameika Serrano

Program Director

The Mustard Seed Women’s Business Center

Erika Small-Sisco

Women’s Business Center

Patcha Hong

Counselor/Instructor

Veterans Business Outreach Center

Joshua Kovitch

Business Counselor / Client Services Administrator

Veterans Business Outreach Center

Darwin Byrd

Veterans Business Outreach Center

Donald Miller

Veterans Business Outreach Center

Deborah Gittens

Program Coordinator

Double Tap

Lisa Parks

Director

Double TAP

Claude Barnett

Client Services Manager

Virginia Apex Accelerator

New to the Institute?

Welcome! The ODU Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship helps entrepreneurs and small business owners move forward with confidence. Whether you’re just getting started, expanding your operations, or exploring new opportunities, our team provides the training, mentorship, and connections to help you grow and succeed.

Already a Client?

Welcome back! Log in or reach out to your advisor to schedule your next session, explore new programs, and stay connected with our community of entrepreneurs.

Don’t Know Where to Start?

Every great business begins with a first step. Tell us about your goals, and we’ll connect you with the right advisors, workshops, and programs to help you move forward.