Success Stories

I found the VBOC (Veterans Business Outreach Center), so I already set up meetings for when I came back to the States. I was able to meet Don Miller at the VBOC in Norfolk and start to write my business plan and really use these resources to accelerate the start of our business.”

The Virginia APEX Accelerator at Old Dominion University’s Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship has played an important role in helping me grow Old Dominion Welding LLC. Through the guidance of my APEX advisor, I learned how to navigate government contracting, complete registrations and certifications, and connect with organizations and networking opportunities that support small businesses.”

Honor Builders is an engineering consulting firm with experience in civil, environmental and structural engineering. Our top client is ABS, where we did structural analysis to support the Virginia Offshore Wind Project (CVOW).”

When Fairwater Associates pursues and wins local, state and federal government contracts, our partners succeed as well.”

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.”

Monique McWhite and the Institute for Innovation Entrepreneurship at ODU provided all the steps we needed to attain our non-profit status with ease. Transcendence is forever grateful to Monique and the Business Development Center for their professional assistance. “