Spark Innovation Center

09/14/2026

FREE Lunch & Learns at Spark this September

We have two great trainings coming up in September, and lunch is included for both. Spots are limited, so make sure you register ahead of time.

September 16 at 12 PM — Mind Your Business with CIC

This is not your traditional lending presentation.

Join us to learn how to make smart business decisions that naturally prepare you for growth and access to capital. We’ll talk about knowing your numbers, making financial decisions that make sense, what lenders are really looking for, and practical steps you can take to become capital ready.

We’ll also look at financing through real-life examples and keep the conversation interactive and practical. If you’ve ever thought about funding your business but weren’t sure where to start, this is a great opportunity to learn more.

September 23 at 11:30 AM — What Is a Customer Really Worth to Your Business?

What is a customer really worth beyond that first purchase?

This session will look at Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) and how repeat purchases, customer relationships, and loyalty can have a much bigger impact on your business than a single sale.

We’ll talk about identifying the value of your best customers, understanding what keeps them coming back, and using that information to make smarter decisions about marketing, pricing, and customer retention.

Come ready to learn, connect with other local business owners, and rethink the value of your dream clients.

Lunch is included at both sessions, and both are FREE. Spots are limited, so register early.

08/19/2026

See you there!

☕🤝 Join Us This Thursday for Altavista Coffee Talk!

Looking to grow your network and connect with fellow business professionals? Start your Thursday morning with coffee and conversation at our August Coffee Talk!

📅 This Thursday, August 20, 2026
⏰ 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM
📍 Spark Innovation Center
508 7th Street, Altavista, VA

Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or professional, Coffee Talk is a welcoming space to build relationships, exchange ideas, and make valuable connections with people from Altavista and across Central Virginia.

✨ No membership required! Invite a friend, bring a coworker, or stop by to see what the Central Virginia Business Coalition is all about.

We can't wait to see you this Thursday!

📞 (434) 229-5638
🌐 www.cvabc.org

08/18/2026

Building on last month’s customer persona work, this class will take a deeper look at who your customers are and how to reach them effectively. Participants will identify key customer segments, explore how different groups may respond to products and marketing, and begin identifying the best ways to attract and retain their ideal customers. By the end of the class, participants will have a clearer picture of their target market and practical strategies for turning customer insight into sales. Lunch is included with your ticket! https://calendly.com/sparkinnovationcenter/sbdc

08/06/2026

I'm excited to be speaking at the 2026 RISE Summit on Thursday, August 27, at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville! If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, innovator, or entrepreneurship support organization, I'd love to see you there. Join us for a full day of practical workshops, meaningful conversations, networking, and resources to help businesses start, grow, and thrive. Learn more and register: https://risesummit2026.eventbrite.com

07/18/2026

We are so thrilled by the amazing turnout at the Booker Building tonight as we celebrated the conclusion of Create Small! 🎉

Ten incredible entrepreneurs officially launched their creative businesses, showcasing their hard work, passion, and talent. We are so grateful for the support of our wonderful Altavista community, especially on such a hot summer evening.

It’s inspiring to see our town come together to encourage local businesses and celebrate big dreams. I’m incredibly proud to be a part of the Altavista community and excited to see what’s next for these talented business owners! ❤️

07/17/2026

07/13/2026

We are so excited for this family event happening on Friday! We will have a live DJ, food trucks, local craft vendors, and the splash pad. Its going to be a blast for your family! Come to the booker building from 4-9. Grab dinner, shop, and let the kids play.

Our Vendors Include:
Suzee Q's Creative Crafts


Regina Barley
Southern Shift

Monroe at Midnight

Big Head

Butterfly Bakehouse

Clean Slate Roll Off Rentals lyh

WoodmenLife with Tess Smith


Food Vendors:
The Happy Heifer/Sonny Bucks
Lulu's Lemonade and Treats LLC

Thai Naka Express
Ma D's
Cousins Maine Lobster

07/09/2026

Swing by the Spark Innovation Center tomorrow from 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM and grab a refreshing drink or a sweet treat from LuLu's Lemonade and Treats!

Lemonades – All kinds available for $10

Sweet Treats:
🍪 Chocolate Chip Cookies – $3
🍰 Cake Pops – $3
🥣 Cookie Dippers (Mini Chocolate Chip Cookies with Icing) – $4
🍿 Fresh Popcorn – $3 per bag

Stop by for a snack or an evening treat—we'll see you at Spark!