Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center

09/02/2026

Know your numbers. Grow your business. 💵

Plenty of businesses look good on paper but still run into trouble. Not because they aren't making money, but because the cash isn't there when the bills are due.

Three quick cash-flow habits to keep your business on track:

1️⃣ Look at a simple 8-week cash forecast, not just your bank balance.
2️⃣ Invoice the day work is done, not at the end of the month.
3️⃣ Know your true break-even number.

Not sure where to start? Our advisor Jonathan specializes in bookkeeping and cash-flow consulting — and every session is free and confidential.

👉 https://www.valleysbdc.org/business-consulting-advising/

08/27/2026

Sometimes the best way to describe what we do is to let our clients do the talking. ☕

We meet clients where they are in the process of building their business because we know that every journey looks a little different. We're where businesses come to talk business.

That's what we're here for.

No-cost advising. Real impact. We're here when you're ready.
🔗 www.valleysbdc.org

08/25/2026

Every success story starts somewhere. ✨🐶

For the small businesses and entrepreneurs we work with across the Shenandoah Valley, that somewhere is often a single conversation, a business plan, a funding connection, or a workshop that helped things click.

We love getting to be a part of those stories, and we love getting to share them.

🔗 Read our client success stories: https://www.valleysbdc.org/consulting-case-studies/

08/20/2026

💙 Meet the Shenandoah Valley SBDC Team!

Over the past few months, we've been introducing you to the people behind the Shenandoah Valley SBDC, and today we're bringing it all together.

From business advising and marketing to operations and bookkeeping, our team brings a wide range of expertise and a shared commitment to helping entrepreneurs across the Valley start, grow, and thrive.

We are so proud of the team we've built, and grateful for the support of JMU and our local partners that makes it all possible.

🔗 Get to know our team: https://www.valleysbdc.org/shenandoah-valley-small-business-development-center-about-staff/

08/18/2026

What a summer it's been! 🎉

From office days to big events, it has been such a joy having our JMU interns alongside our team this season. As students head back to campus next week, we're cheering them on for everything ahead! Here's to a great fall semester. 💜💛

08/13/2026

Many business owners first contact the SBDC with one question.

Can I get funding?
How do I price this?
How can I better plan my cash flow?
What do I need before hiring?
Is this growth opportunity worth it?

That first conversation matters. But the bigger value often comes from what happens next.

Ongoing advising can help a business owner compare options, review numbers, prepare documents, adjust strategy, and make decisions with more confidence over time.

That is why we talk about the value of deeper advising relationships. Progress usually takes more than one touchpoint.

If you have worked with an advisor once, consider this your reminder to reconnect before the next big decision.

08/12/2026

There's still time to register! 📣

Whether you're hiring or job hunting, don't miss the Virginia Runs on Small Business Virtual Employment Fair tomorrow, August 13th.

🔗 Register today: https://app.premiervirtual.com/events/4d7ab4ae-5579-40f0-b94f-22eeb6ee9e38/virginia-runs-on-small-business-virginia-s-small-business-employment-fair

There's still time to register for the Virginia Runs on Small Business Virtual Employment Fair!

This free, virtual statewide event hosted by in partnership with Virginia Works makes it easy to connect with motivated job seekers from across the Commonwealth. Meet candidates through live video interviews, review resumes before and after the event, and build a talent pipeline that supports your business well beyond hiring day!

Whether you're looking for your next employee or your next career opportunity, this event is designed to bring Virginia's small businesses and skilled talent together all from the convenience of your computer.

📅 August 13, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
💻 Free Virtual Event

Register today at sbsd.virginia.gov/employment-fair

08/11/2026

Every thriving local business started with a single conversation.

Behind every business you love in the Shenandoah Valley is someone who took that first step, and a team ready to help them figure out the next one.

That's what we're here for. 💙

08/07/2026

🌟 Client Spotlight | Wall-Lift Inc.

In 2005, contractor Mark Helmuth had a problem. The methods available for raising framed walls weren't cutting it, so he built his own solution. Twenty years later, that solution has become a business serving more than 1,000 customers worldwide.

When it came time to turn his invention into a company, Mark found the Shenandoah Valley Small Business Development Center.

"The SBDC walked me through a lot of things. They helped me put together brochures and marketing, connected me with shipping resources, and I took many of the courses they offered."
— Mark Helmuth, Wall-Lift Inc.

Nearly two decades after solving a problem on his own jobsite, Helmuth continues to innovate while staying connected with the SBDC through workshops, webinars, and business advising.

Read the full story 👇
https://www.valleysbdc.org/portfolio-item/wall-lift-inc/

08/05/2026

Attention Valley small businesses and job seekers! 📣

The Virginia Department of Small Business and Supplier Diversity is hosting a free virtual employment fair on August 13th that you won't want to miss. It's open to both small businesses that are hiring and individuals looking for their next opportunity.

Whether you're looking to grow your team or explore a new career path, this is a great resource worth checking out!

📅 August 13, 2026
🕚 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
💻 Free Virtual Event

🔗 Register today: https://app.premiervirtual.com/events/4d7ab4ae-5579-40f0-b94f-22eeb6ee9e38/virginia-runs-on-small-business-virginia-s-small-business-employment-fair

If your small business is hiring—or planning to hire in the coming months—don't miss the Virginia Runs on Small Business Virtual Employment Fair on August 13.

This free, virtual statewide event hosted by in partnership with Virginia Works makes it easy to connect with motivated job seekers from across the Commonwealth. Meet candidates through live video interviews, review resumes before and after the event, and build a talent pipeline that supports your business well beyond hiring day!

Whether you're looking for your next employee or your next career opportunity, this event is designed to bring Virginia's small businesses and skilled talent together all from the convenience of your computer.

📅 August 13, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
💻 Free Virtual Event

Register today at sbsd.virginia.gov/employment-fair