As a result of the 2018 Disparity Study, the City of Virginia Beach City Council adopted ordinances and resolutions that will assist SWaM businesses in contracting with the City. To view the ordinances and resolutions in full detail, visit the business development initiatives page.

The SWaM Business Office is dedicated to the growth and development of small, women and minority-owned businesses, including service-disabled/veteran-owned businesses by providing resources and training sessions to assist businesses in obtaining contracts with the City of Virginia Beach.

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If you're interested in learning about upcoming workshops, networking events, and business opportunities, we invite you to submit your contact information. By joining our contact list, you'll receive the latest updates, resources, and important announcements to help support and grow your business.

Workshop attendees at the HIVE

Register Now: 2026 MBC Fall Conference and Expo – November 5, 2026

The 2026 Annual Fall MBC Conference and Expo is designed to provide education, inspiration, and one-on-one engagement with Hampton Roads resource partners, procurement professionals, and business owners looking for key opportunities to help in their quest for business excellence. The VB MBC welcomes this year’s keynote speaker, Mr. Steven Anthony, Chairman and CEO of Anthony Global Holdings (AGH), a business leader and economic development advocate dedicated to helping businesses grow through strategic investment, entrepreneurship, and access to capital. Recognized as one of Legacy MIA Magazine’s Top 100 Most Powerful and Influential Business Leaders of 2026, Steven is committed to building stronger businesses and thriving communities. The VB MBC would also like to thank you to this year's Diamond Sponsor of the 2026 MBC Fall Conference and Expo, Tidewater Utility Construction, Inc.

Register Now

2026 Informational/Training Sessions

Upcoming Partner Workshops

The HIVE Small Business Resource Center

The HIVE hosts a wide range of free events designed to support entrepreneurs, small business owners, and curious minds at every stage, from hands-on workshops and information sessions to weekly coaching calls.

See what the HIVE offers

Virginia Small Business Development Center

Explore upcoming programs designed for entrepreneurs and business owners at every stage of growth, from fundamentals to cybersecurity and government contracting.

See what SBDC offers

Virginia APEX Accelerator

Gain the knowledge and connections needed to succeed in government contracting through Virginia APEX Accelerator training programs, workshops, webinars, and networking events.

See what APEX Accelerator offers

U.S. Small Business Administration

SBA events help entrepreneurs and small business owners develop essential skills in areas such as business planning, financing, government contracting, marketing, exporting, and disaster preparedness.

See what SBA offers