Our Programs Small Business & Nonprofit

Small businesses are the engine of our economy, fueling job creation, community development, and generational wealth-building. Small businesses make up half of private sector employment and are responsible for 70% of net new jobs in the U.S. since 2019. In 2024, the Capital Region Small Business Development Center continued to support small business by providing expert advising, access to capital, and essential resources. Over the past year, the Capital Region SBDC assisted 406 small businesses, helped secure over $17 million in capital formation, and contributed to the creation of 105 new jobs.

Through workshops, one-on-one coaching, and tailored technical assistance, the Capital Region SBDC empowers business owners to navigate challenges and seize new opportunities. Their commitment to fostering a thriving small business ecosystem remains stronger than ever, ensuring that entrepreneurs across the Richmond metro area have the support they need to succeed. Locus proudly serves as the host location for the Capital Region SBDC.

Learn more here: Home – Capital Region SBDC

With a $13 million New Markets Tax Credits (NMTC) allocation from Locus, Goodwill Industries of the Valleys sponsored the development of a full-service grocery store and an adult high school in Northwest Roanoke. This initiative directly addresses longstanding gaps in food access and adult education in a historically underserved community. The NMTC allocation from Locus unlocked a critical investment from U.S. Bank, and with additional support from First Citizens Bank and the City of Roanoke, the project represents a transformative investment in an area where 90% of residents are considered low-income. The development also prioritizes sustainability, featuring a solar array that will generate 90% of its electricity needs.

The Market on Melrose, which opened in November 2024, combats food insecurity by providing affordable, healthy groceries to over 19,000 local residents, while also offering nutrition education. Adjacent to the market, the Excel Center® will offer adults a free, public pathway to earn a high school diploma as well as other certificates and credentials. The school will provide services like childcare, transportation, and job placement support to remove common barriers to education. Together, the Market and Excel Center are expected to generate 60 full-time jobs, boosting the community’s economic mobility and quality of life.

Community leaders are repurposing historical buildings to meet modern needs. In Nelson County, Virginia, a non-profit organization called the Millenium Group petitioned the local Board of Supervisors to grant formerly segregated high school Nelson Memorial to become the Nelson Heritage Center.

The Center now houses two local food banks, a community recreational facility, event rental space, a commercial community kitchen, an oral history museum, and a computer lab to support workforce development. With the support of Locus, construction is underway to renovate the southern wing of the building to accommodate a new local clinic for the Virginia Health Department. A much-needed childcare facility for 60 local students and 20 teachers will open next January.

Robert Granados began selling premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars at farmers markets in the Richmond area over five years ago. Recently, he took the next step by opening a storefront in the heart of Carytown, a vibrant, walkable shopping district in Richmond, Virginia. Richmond Olive Oil Co. offers a boutique experience with more than 30 varieties of olive oils and balsamic from around the world, alongside soaps, lotions, candles, and culinary items. Dedicated to his craft, Robert earned certification as an Olive Oil Expert and Sommelier from the Tuscany Olive Oil School.

In Spring 2024, Locus provided financing for startup expenses, inventory, and buildout costs, helping bring his vision to life. By September, the veteran-owned shop opened its doors, and after six months in business, it has been embraced by the Richmond community.