SPARK RVA: Igniting Entrepreneurs

Wed, Oct 7, 2026 at 5:00pm EST

1717 Innovation Center, Washington, DC

1717 East Cary StreetRichmond, VA 23223

Free

Event Description

Championing a new wave of graduates from Culinary Concepts AB’s Entrepreneur Empowerment Program Cohort 7

Culinary Concepts AB, in partnership with Hatch, Bridging Virginia, and Capital One, is proud to announce Spark RVA: Igniting Entrepreneurs — our showcase event honoring the seventh cohort to complete the Entrepreneur Empowerment Program.

Friday, October 7th, 5 p.m.

The Rooftop, 1717 Innovation Center, E Cary St, Richmond, VA 23223, USA

This is the finale. Six weeks ago, this cohort walked in as busy owners buried in the day-to-day. They walk out as strategic CEOs — with the systems, the clarity, and the capital to scale.

What the Program Delivers

The Entrepreneur Empowerment Program exists to uplift small and minority-owned businesses across Richmond, VA. Over six intensive weeks, participants stop guessing and start building: setting clear goals, installing sustainable systems, and creating a real roadmap for growth. Graduates don't just leave with a plan — they leave with access to up to $50,000 in low-interest capital through Bridging Virginia to fund what's next.

What to Expect at Spark RVA

- Taste the results. Graduate-owned businesses will serve up the food that fuels their success — a showcase of the diversity and culinary talent driving Richmond forward. - Hear the stories. These entrepreneurs will share firsthand what it took to move from "busy in the kitchen" to running a business built to last. - Build the network. Connect with fellow attendees, community leaders, and industry experts — the same public-private network actively shaping Richmond's economic future.

This isn't just a celebration. It's proof of what's possible when passion meets the right systems, community, and capital. Join us in honoring these entrepreneurs — and in building the ecosystem that drives Richmond's long-term success.

See the impact for yourself: Watch the Entrepreneur Empowerment Program video

Get tickets · Browse all events · More events in Washington, DC