Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most valuable tools available to small businesses and entrepreneurs — and BizLaunch is bringing that opportunity to the local business community with an upcoming in‑person workshop, “AI Advantage: Creating Winning Proposals With Smart Tools.”
Led by the expert consultants at Revby, the program will explore how AI can support small businesses across a wide range of functions, from writing proposals and business plans to strengthening marketing, streamlining operations and supporting basic financial analysis. While proposals are a key focus, the session is designed to help business owners understand how AI can be applied throughout their operations in practical, accessible ways. (more…)
February is Black History Month, and this year theSmall Business Coordinating Council will spotlight the State of Black Entrepreneurship with three dynamic speakers: Eric Alston and William Mitchell ofWACIF, and Darin Cox, owner ofThe Peach Cobbler Factory in Washington, D.C.
Over the past decade, the growth of Black-owned businesses has been remarkable. Between 2017 and 2022, the number of Black-owned employer firms rose 56.9%, adding more than 70,000 new businesses. In 2022 alone, these firms generated $212 billion in revenue and paid $61 billion in salaries. Black women continue to lead the nation in business creation, driving a 71.6% increase in black-female–owned firms during that same five-year span.
But despite this momentum, black entrepreneurship is at a pivotal crossroads. Innovation and new business formation remain strong, yet recent federal rollbacks, tighter capital access and shifting corporate commitments in 2025 have created new challenges. Among the most significant setbacks:
Federal support for disadvantaged businesses declined sharply, jeopardizing an estimated $10 billion to $15 billion in annual resources for black-owned firms.
The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) faced efforts to dismantle it, undermining a key source of long-standing business support.
Reduced funding for Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) further limited access to affordable capital which had already been a barrier for many black-owned firms.
With higher barriers to financing and fewer federal procurement opportunities, local initiatives now play an even more critical role in building an inclusive economic ecosystem.
Contact Prakriti Deuja at [email protected] to get more info on joining us in person or online on Feb. 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. for this timely discussion. Learn how local communities are stepping up to support one of the fastest-growing segments of entrepreneurs — and how you can be part of that progress.
Since 2003, Arlington’s Small Business Coordinating Council (SBCC) has convened business leaders from across the D.C. region to exchange insights, tackle shared challenges and stay ahead of the trends shaping today’s entrepreneurial landscape. More than a meeting, SBCC serves as a collaborative forum where ideas turn into action — and where business owners, service providers and community partners come together to strengthen Arlington’s small business ecosystem.
We need you! Membership in Arlington’s Small Business Coordinating Council (SBCC) matters because it places you at the center of the local small business ecosystem. Members gain early insight into policy updates, economic trends and emerging issues that directly impact entrepreneurs, while helping shape coordinated solutions alongside public agencies, nonprofit partners and fellow business leaders. SBCC is not just a forum for discussion — it is a platform for collaboration, shared problem-solving and collective impact that strengthens the entire business community.(more…)
This article is written and sponsored by BizLaunch.
Small Business Saturday is Nov. 29, 2025, and Arlington’s BizLaunch team is rolling out the red carpet for our local entrepreneurs! As Arlington’s Small Business and Entrepreneurial Resource Center, BizLaunch is making sure local businesses have everything they need to shine bright this holiday season. Learn Why Arlington Shops Local: Voices from the Community.
The Small Business Saturday Marketing Toolkit is live! It’s packed with customizable graphics, catchy social media captions, suggested hashtags and expert tips to help your business stand out on one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Whether you run a boutique, café or creative studio, this toolkit makes it easy to connect with customers and spread the “shop local” love.
How to Access the Toolkit: Grab your free download for Small Business Saturday. It’s designed just for Arlington businesses, with practical tools to boost your visibility.
Don’t Miss Out on the BizLaunch Directory: If your business is not listed in the BizLaunch Small Business Directory, now’s the time! It’s SEO-optimized to help new customers find you. Customize features like hours, promos and photos. Businesses with active listings will get extra spotlighting leading up to Small Business Saturday.
Open Rewards: If you haven’t joined Open Rewards yet, do it now! Every local purchase earns shoppers 5% back year-round. On Saturday, Nov. 29, earn 10% back in rewards. Shoppers can spend rewards at any participating Arlington business, keeping the local dollars flowing right here at home.
Why It Matters: Small Business Saturday isn’t just about shopping — it’s a celebration of community, creativity and connection. Every dollar spent locally strengthens Arlington’s economy and supports the dreamers, makers and doers who make our neighborhoods special.
Visit BizLaunch.org for more resources, one-on-one business coaching and upcoming workshops. Make Nov. 29 a day to remember Arlington’s small business community!
As fall colors brighten Arlington, it’s time to gear up for the season’s biggest shopping event — Small Business Saturday, held annually the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Now more than ever, it’s vital to rally as a community and champion our locally owned businesses.
To help small businesses thrive, BizLaunch is preparing to make a major impact this Small Business Saturday. Here’s how your business can get involved.
Small Business Directory
The BizLaunch Small Business Directory, is a robust, SEO-optimized listing of Arlington’s small businesses. While many are already featured, we encourage you to claim your free profile. Add your hours, promotions, product photos and more. It’s easy to claim your listing, and businesses with active profiles will be spotlighted in the lead-up to Small Business Saturday.
Marketing Toolkit
To maximize visibility, BizLaunch is creating a marketing toolkit for Small Business Saturday. The toolkit will include graphics, sample social media posts and hashtags to enhance your online presence. Subscribe to our email newsletter to receive the toolkit when it’s released.
Given the current economic climate, it’s more important than ever to support Arlington’s small businesses. Learn more about BizLaunch at www.bizlaunch.org.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the rich cultural legacy and entrepreneurial spirit of Hispanic communities across the United States. In Arlington, that spirit is reflected in the vibrant network of Hispanic-owned businesses that continue to shape our local economy and community identity.
This year, BizLaunch is proud to celebrate under the national theme “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future” as a tribute to the legacy of long-standing businesses and the promise of emerging entrepreneurs redefining success in our region.
Among the Hispanic-owned businesses that have become pillars of Arlington’s neighborhoods are:
Amoroso Art: A vibrant creative studio celebrating Latin American culture through visual arts
Island Jewelry: Known for its handcrafted pieces that reflect Caribbean heritage and craftsmanship
Panamerican Bakery: Brings the warmth of traditional Latin baked goods to the community
Heads Up Hair Design: Offers personalized beauty services rooted in cultural pride and style
La Coop Coffee: A social enterprise connecting Guatemalan coffee growers with local consumers;
Café Sazón and Cassiel Salon: Community favorites blending hospitality and wellness, creating welcoming spaces that reflect the diversity and entrepreneurial spirit of Arlington’s Hispanic community
These businesses are part of a broader movement in Arlington, Virginia and beyond. Across Virginia, Hispanic entrepreneurs own more than 9.2 percent of small businesses, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth . Nationally, there are more than 5.1 million Hispanic-owned firms employing nearly three million people and generating over $766.8 billion in annual revenue. Hispanic business owners currently represent 14.5 percent of all entrepreneurs in the United States, a figure that continues to grow each year (U.S. Small Business Administration, 2024). Hispanic-owned businesses have experienced remarkable growth, increasing by 44% between 2018 and 2023, compared to a slight decline in white-owned businesses during the same period. This surge highlights the dynamic expansion of Latino entrepreneurship in the U.S. (Stanford GSB, 2024).
But Hispanic Heritage Month is not only about honoring the past. It is also about inspiring the future. Arlington is home to a new generation of Hispanic entrepreneurs who are launching innovative ventures and bringing fresh energy to our business landscape. These early-stage businesses, such as Red Bean Harvest Coffee, a specialty coffee startup connecting local consumers with Latin American growers; Prize App, a creative platform that benefits employees and employers at the same time; Tech Solutions by Alexis Rivas, providing tech support and digital services to small businesses; and Portal Maya Food Truck, serving traditional Mayan flavors with a modern twist, are full of promise, and their stories are just beginning.[DE8]
Get ready to experience Arlington like never before! On Saturday, October 4, from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., the 2025 Arlington ArtWalk invites you to take a self-guided journey through the heart of Arlington’s vibrant arts scene — stretching from Clarendon to Ballston.
Now in its fourth year, the ArtWalk is more than just a stroll — it’s a celebration of creativity, community and placemaking. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking for a fun way to spend your Saturday, this free event offers something for everyone. Expect live music, interactive workshops, curated exhibitions and a bustling artisan market, all woven into a walkable experience that highlights the best of Arlington’s cultural landscape.
Some must-see activation sites include:
MoCA Arlington: Kick off the evening with their Art After Hours celebration, featuring new fall exhibitions, a cash bar reception and the Made in Arlington Market — perfect for early holiday shopping.
Fred Schnider Gallery of Art: Discover “Expedition” by Chris Gregson, a mesmerizing series of layered, gestural artworks that redefine abstract expression.
Cody Gallery at Marymount University: Don’t miss “Tunnel Vision,” a multi-media exhibition by Foon Sham, including the interactive sculpture “Shield.”
WHINO: Dive into the world of Lowbrow and Pop Surrealism with a special group show featuring iconic and emerging artists from the Art Whino collective.
Northside Social Arlington: Enjoy live painting by John Hartt, music by Later Jane and local wine tastings in a cozy, art-filled atmosphere.
Arlington Public Library’s Maker Studio “The Shop”: Tour the makerspace and get hands-on with creative projects until 5:00 p.m. Plus don’t miss the Chalk Riot Installation which is a live chalk art activation that will start at 3:00 p.m.
Mason Exhibitions Arlington: Explore contemporary Kurdish identity through art and live music in the outdoor breezeway.
With dozens of stops and surprises along the way, the ArtWalk is your passport to discovering the rich tapestry of Arlington’s creative community. Be sure to download the custom ArtWalk Map to guide your journey and keep the inspiration going year-round.
Calling all restaurants, retailers and customer-facing businesses in Clarendon, Virginia Square and Ballston. This is your moment to shine. The Arlington ArtWalk is back for its fourth year, and it is bigger, bolder and more creative than ever.
This self-guided celebration of art, culture and community transforms Arlington into a dynamic corridor of creativity, connecting local artists, galleries, artisan markets and museums. Your business can be right in the heart of it all.
Why You Should Join
Unmatched visibility: Be featured on the official ArtWalk map and promoted alongside top cultural destinations.
Creative collaborations: Sponsor a local artist for an on-site activation with support from Arlington Public Art that draws foot traffic and buzz.
Boost sales: Offer a special prix fixe menu or exclusive ArtWalk deal to attract new customers.
Get rewarded: Display signage for Open Rewards and let shoppers earn cash back for supporting your business.
Whether you are a cozy café, trendy boutique or bustling bar, the ArtWalk is your chance to connect with thousands of art lovers and curious explorers looking to discover something new like you.
Mark Your Calendar
Date: Saturday, October 4, 2025 Time: 3:00 p.m.
Ready to put yourself on the map?
Contact Susan Soroko, Director of Creative Economy, at [email protected] to secure your spot and get all the details.
Let’s make this year’s ArtWalk unforgettable. Do not miss your chance to be part of Arlington’s creative pulse.
Come Join the Fun
Even if you are not a participating business, the ArtWalk is for you. Stroll through the neighborhood, explore unique art installations, visit local shops and enjoy live creativity in action. Bring friends and family to experience one of Arlington’s most colorful and inspiring days of the year. Visit www.arlingtoneconomicdevelopment.com to stay up to date with all things ArtWalk, and sign up for our newsletter for more information.
Have a business idea but not sure where to begin? Tired of making money for someone else and ready to write your own paycheck? Arlington Economic Development’s BizLaunch team is here to help you turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
BizLaunch offers free tools, guidance and connections to help entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses. Whether you’re launching a tech startup, opening a retail shop or starting a home-based business, make BizLaunch your first stop.
One of the most helpful tools BizLaunch offers is the Small Business Checklist — a comprehensive, step-by-step guide that walks you through everything you need to know to start a business in Arlington. From choosing a legal structure to securing permits and licenses, the checklist simplifies the process and helps you stay organized.
But BizLaunch and our suite of offerings is more than just a checklist. Entrepreneurs can access:
BizLaunch also works closely with additional Arlington County departments to help you navigate local regulations and access the right resources. As a division of Arlington Economic Development, BizLaunch is uniquely positioned to support businesses at every stage of their journey.
Why Arlington?
The County offers a dynamic business environment, a highly educated workforce and a strong commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship. Whether you’re setting up shop in Ballston, Crystal City or Columbia Pike, Arlington is a great place to start and/or grow your business — and BizLaunch is here to help you every step of the way.
A new name in American-made fashion has officially arrived in Arlington, VA. STATED, a locally rooted brand specializing in high-quality totes and garments, opened its doors in June 2025 after launching online in 2024. With a commitment to timeless design and domestic production, STATED is quickly making its mark as a brand that blends classic style with modern sensibility.
Founded by a longtime Arlington resident, Shahira Tewfik, STATED is more than just a fashion label — it’s a tribute to American craftsmanship. All products are fabricated in the United States using materials from one of the few remaining U.S. textile mills. The brand’s minimalist aesthetic is designed to be both durable and adaptable, allowing each piece to be uniquely personalized by its user. As the founder puts it, “We are neither overstated nor understated — we are simply STATED.”
The journey to launch was supported in part by Arlington Economic Development’s BizLaunch program. After connecting with the BizLaunch team at a local business event in April 2025, the founder received invaluable guidance and access to resources that helped navigate the early stages of business development. “They’ve been instrumental in connecting me with the right people and departments,” said Tewfik.
STATED’s roots in Arlington run deep. The Tewfik has called the area home since 1996 and chose to grow the business here to give back to the community that shaped them. “Arlington is diverse, vibrant and constantly evolving. That energy has influenced my designs and business philosophy,” they said.
While the transient nature of Arlington’s population — largely due to its proximity to government institutions — can pose challenges, it also brings a youthful, dynamic spirit that keeps the community fresh and inspiring.
The brand’s vision is ambitious: to grow into a nationally and internationally recognized name, celebrated for its durability and classic American style. And with the help of a dedicated team — including the founder’s adult children, who currently work pro bono — STATED is well on its way.
Every customer who supports STATED becomes part of a larger mission: to celebrate and preserve the legacy of American textile and garment industries. As the founder reflects, “Each person who appreciates our work helps spread the word that quality, timeless fabrication still exists right here in the U.S.”
For Arlington residents and beyond, STATED is a brand to watch — and wear. For more information about Stated visit: www.statedus.com. To learn how BizLaunch can support your small business visit www.bizlaunch.org.
In Arlington, federal employees aren’t just a part of the workforce — they’re our neighbors, friends and community members. As some navigate career shifts prompted by recent federal policy changes, BizLaunch is here to help turn years of government experience into successful business ventures.
Federal workers bring highly specialized skills in areas like accounting, IT, consulting and project management. These areas of expertise make them natural candidates for entrepreneurship. That’s where BizLaunch comes in. BizLaunch has hosted workshops, career fairs and networking events specifically designed to guide federal employees through the process of launching and growing a business.
Whether you’re brainstorming your first idea or mapping out a full business plan, BizLaunch offers free, one-on-one consultations covering everything from marketing to licensing to compliance. And for those looking for even more support, BizLaunch’s free webinar, presented with SCORE and Arlington Public Library, offers practical insights tailored for government workers ready to explore what’s next.
While BizLaunch focuses on entrepreneurship, Arlington County as a whole remains committed to supporting the more than 25,000 federal employees who work here and the many more who call Arlington home. For additional county resources, visit the Assistance for Federal Employees and Contractors page.
For more information on BizLaunch, Arlington’s small business support network, or to schedule a free consultation, visit bizlaunch.org.
Founded in September 2016, Train with Chaz is a health and wellness business helping busy professionals in Arlington lose weight and regain vitality through sustainable habits that boost energy, build confidence and fit seamlessly into their lives without adding stress.
Chaz Berry, an Arlingtonian, launched the business with a clear vision: to provide personalized health and fitness plans tailored to each client’s needs. “Unlike many programs that offer generic plans, this business focuses on creating an experience that feels like having a coach by your side every day,” Berry said.
In fall 2024, Berry leveraged BizLaunch resources to support business growth, particularly through the ReLaunch program. “BizLaunch helped me refine my target market, clarify my unique value proposition and develop a strong brand identity through effective use of colors and graphics,” Berry said.
One of Train with Chaz’s most powerful client stories involve a woman in her 50s who came to Berry feeling depleted and lacking confidence after experiencing several major life changes. With personalized coaching and consistent support, she underwent a transformative journey. “This story exemplifies the profound impact of personalized health coaching on individuals’ lives, highlighting the emotional, mental and physical growth that contributes to a thriving community,” Berry said.
Berry chose Arlington for its vibrant and supportive environment. The County’s parks, layout and balance of urban and suburban energy create an ideal setting for a wellness-focused business. “I also appreciate Arlington’s diversity, friendly vibe and the ease of access to fitness opportunities and stores,” Berry said.
Looking ahead, Berry plans to establish Train with Chaz as a trusted name in Arlington while expanding its reach through in-person and online programs. This growth strategy reflects a dedication to maintaining quality care and impactful results.
Learn more at www.train-with-chaz.com. If you’re a small business owner looking to grow your brand or refine your strategy, get in touch with BizLaunch today.
This article is written and sponsored by 
