Annette
Annette Patterson, President The Advancement Foundation
Entrepreneurs, Mentors, Sponsors, and Friends,
Are you still reeling as much as I am from the fact that we are here?! The TENTH anniversary of The Gauntlet?! I am absolutely beaming with pride, full of energy and humbled by the more than 1,000 entrepreneurs who put their faith in our team to help them realize their dreams.
For years I have watched the courage and strength of entrepreneurs as they lean into making their ideas become a reality. This past year, I joined the ranks of entrepreneurship, starting my own business as a fractional Chief Marketing Officer and I couldn’t be more proud to be surrounded by such a resilient, adaptable and intelligent group of people who are so willing to collaborate and lift one another up.
This 10th celebration has definitely given me a moment to reflect as I am in awe of all of you. If you are reading this, it means you have shown The Advancement Foundation your support whether it’s been as an entrepreneur, business partner, collaborator, sponsor, shared your knowledge when asked, so many people have come together in so many ways. All of this while building and growing the local economies in the growing number of communities served by The Advancement Foundation.
Each class has been truly special and this year, our class of 2024 has stepped up to the challenge to lean into the coursework,
We have an amazing story, thanks to all of you and I can’t wait to write the coming chapters with all of you by our side.
Sincerely, Becky
Becky Freemal, Board Chair The Advancement Foundation
“The GAUNTLET Program is an amazing experience. I didn't realize how much I didn't know that I needed to learn about business. I have built so many connections with amazing people thanks to this program. The way that I plan and build my business has forever been changed for the better.
Brandi Duncan, Virago Health And Fitness
Dear 2024 Gauntlet Grads, Gauntlet Alumni, Community Leaders, Program Faculty, Mentors, and Sponsors,
As we gather to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Gauntlet Business Program and Competition, it fills me with immense pride to reflect on the journey we've undertaken together this year and the profound impact we continue to have on the entrepreneurial landscape in small and rural communities all across Virginia.
Year after year, The Advancement Foundation remains committed to fostering the growth and evolution of our entrepreneurial ecosystem through our three-pronged approach: programming, resources, and placemaking. Each day presents new opportunities to engineer opportunities, nurture innovation, empower dreams, and drive positive change in communities across the state and beyond.
The core objectives of the Gauntlet program remain steadfast:
Identifying and nurturing entrepreneurs with innovative ideas, providing them with the support and guidance they need to flourish
Offering comprehensive learning experiences tailored to meet the needs of aspiring and established business owners and entrepreneurs
Cultivating an environment of collaboration and support at the community level, creating an environment that enables entrepreneurial ideas to thrive
Leveraging community assets and forging connections with community leaders, industry experts, and service providers
Facilitating access to capital investment opportunities
Fostering collaboration among a wide range of stakeholders with the goal of building sustainable communities
To the 2024 Gauntlet program graduates: Your dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to your dreams have not gone unnoticed. By completing the Gauntlet program, you've not only invested in yourselves but have also become beacons of inspiration for countless others. Your endeavors serve as the driving force behind the creation of vibrant, thriving communities where people aspire to live, work, and play.
To all our program supporters: Your invaluable contributions of time, talent, and resources have been instrumental in our journey and the journey of over 1,000 entrepreneurs thus far. Without your unwavering support, none of this would be possible. On behalf of all whose lives and communities which have been positively impacted by your generosity, we extend our heartfelt gratitude.
As we commemorate a decade of The Gauntlet Business Program and Competition, let us look to the future with renewed enthusiasm and anticipation. Together, we will continue to foster innovation, forge meaningful connections and partnerships, empower entrepreneurial dreams, and create magic for many years to come.
Sincerely,
Kathy
Kathy Deacon, Vice President of Business Resources and Development
The Advancement Foundation
MEET THE 2024 GAUNTLET COMPETITORS
410 on Main is owned and operated by Gray Lane and his business partner, David Bostic. Gray is a hotel and corporate finance expert specializing in hotel asset acquisition due diligence, GAAP compliance, revenue and expense management, and treasury-related banking and merchant services relationships.
Alleghany Outdoors rents kayaks, tubes, bikes, and rats for your perfect trip in the Jackson River Valley. We are a contracted outfitter of Alleghany County Parks and Recreation Department to provide both river and bike train experiences for locals and tourists.
Barnwood Blessings is owned and operated by Lori Conner, a creator at heart. She has worked tirelessly for years curating a diverse selection of handmade and upcycled furniture and home decor items for every need. The dream of opening a storefront came to fruition in November, 2020 right in the middle of the pandemic.
Beyond the Dream, LLC showcases Lashanda’s unwavering commitment to empowering individuals to pursue their aspirations with determination. By offering a blend of one-on-one and group coaching, inspirational events and educational tools, she’s created a robust platform for people to not only envision their dreams but to actively work towards realizing them.
Blue Ridge Outdoor School is a school offering educational learning opportunities in the natural outdoor environment. It is a safe place for children to play, get dirty, explore, climb, and live their best childhood during their time away from home. We offer preschool programs, after-school programs, and summer camp care for families in Rockbridge County.
Bow Wow Bakery specializes in healthy dog treats and pastries with ingredients YOU recognize. Our treats have no added sugar, salt, additives, preservatives, flavors, or colorings. Your dog deserves the best treats you can find and we have the tastiest, healthy snacks to delight your dog's taste buds. Not only are our treats safe for your pets, they are also safe for you and your children; in fact, we have taste-tested them all.
Building Buddies is owned and operated by Devin Hall. Devin has been fascinated with blocks since an early age. Kids are too connected to devices and blocks allow them to take time away from the hustle and bustle, to sit down and disconnect. Kids are too connected to devices. It’s time to get back to the “basics of play.” His philosophy is building a better community, one brick at a time.
"Even
after having years of entrepreneurial experience under my belt,
I was still able to expand
my knowledge
with The GAUNTLET Program and I encourage others to do the same. “ Kenneth Harkness, Solvacy
Cafe Azalea, LLC is your regional contactless rental venue hub. We host parties and gathering plus other special events. We are entirely web based for our rentals and ticket sells. Soon to be expanding into contactless food and drinks.
Carousel Home Health Care’s vision is to enhance access to care, foster collaboration, and drive positive change. By working closely with healthcare providers, clients, and their families, we strive to create a healthcare environment that is more compassionate, efficient, and focused on achieving quality outcomes.
Chaos Corner aims to become the destination for indoor entertainment in Roanoke, Virginia. Our studio offers smash and paint splatter rooms great for an unforgettable group experience or an empowering solo adventure. Offering a safe environment for this interactive activity provides a unique way to create art by splattering paint onto canvases and an outlet to break free.
Coffee with Love LLC - Allison is a former ECPI student and is a No Bounds Ambassador. Coffee with Love will be selling coffee, tea, latte, mocha, cappuccino, and hot chocolate for ECPI students who are on a rigorous and hectic schedule. This is her brainchild for her fellow ECPI students are her continuing support as she seeks a job in Medical Assisting.
COREworks is a rural development tool that helps us rise to the challenge of protecting the planet with creativity, initiative, and personal responsibility. This homegrown innovation is a community-based carbon offset marketplace operated by Boxerwood Nature Center whose proceeds accelerate earth care in Rockbridge County, Virginia via tree plantings, solar arrays, and community composting projects.
Dragon Bite Books & Crafts a secondhand shop providing books and craft supplies sourced primarily from within the community, We make often expensive hobbies more accessible while fostering a “waste nothing” mindset and circular economy where one person’s clutter can become another’s prize.
Eads Sports Zone Podcast - Brian is a No Bounds Ambassador and the host of Eads Sports Zone Podcast. Brian’s podcast will be about local sports teams and stories, starting out. The hope is to branch out to talk about national sports stories and teams, with stories in variation from baseball to lacrosse and almost every sport in between, including Special Olympics.
EPIC ECPI - No Bounds students Ryan Hammond and Connor Smith came alive as they entered The Gauntlet. EPIC ECPI is the name for the pantry they will be opening. They will be selling nonperishable goods for the stressed out fellow ECPI students. After a survey they found a key part of EPIC ECPI will be highlighters.
Gather@411 East Main is a versatile, inclusive, entertainment hub in Wise, VA. We bring art, food, entertainment, and commerce together for our community - all under one roof. With a mission to foster community and support local entrepreneurs, Gather is where stories are shared, relationships are forged, and the spirit of community thrives.
Get Resultz Fitness seeks to inspire individuals of all ages to achieve their health and wellness goals, change lives, and offer specialized rehabilitation services tailored to frail senior citizens. With a vision to help individuals rebuild them to have the best life, we are committed to providing compassionate care, innovative programs, and a supportive community environment.
Goth Girl Art Factory a haven for pottery and encaustic art nestled in the serene town of Fries, Virginia. At the heart of the Goth Girl Art Factory lies Andi's commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity. Each piece that emerges from her studio is a testament to her meticulous attention to detail and unwavering dedication to quality.
Grace & Glitter Bowtique is a small business located in Vinton, Va. Heather creates unique boutique tees and gifts, custom orders, and businessbranding apparel, specializing in short-runs. She works closely with her customers to ensure their order is exactly what they want She creates and packages every order so that all her customers get the personalized touch often missing with big companies.
Half Feral fills the gap between you and your favorite outdoor adventures by providing indoor training products and gear. We use recycled materials to help the environment and keep costs low so you can do what you at a lower price. Half Feral's gear allows you to make the most of your time outside and unlock your next adventure.
Hello Roanoke is a platform designed to share personal experiences, food & activity recommendations, and tips about Roanoke to help users discover what makes this region so special. Today, Hello Roanoke has grown to a community of more than 50,000 followers across Instagram and Facebook.
Hoot Designs - Michael Weber recently joined No Bounds and is the owner of Hoot’s designs. He wants to make key chains for any occasion. He has found that keychains are a daily personal treasure and important part of people’s lives. Why not custom-made ones?
Jackson River Yoga is owned and operated by Tony and Lindsay O’Brien. In addition to being Certified and Registered Yoga Teachers, they have 9 years of combined Yoga experience. Jackson River Yoga is a place to offer preventative maintenance for the health and wellbeing of the community, and the benefit of the less fortunate.
JP’s Lounge is owned and operated by Jahmal Potter. Jahmal was born and raised in Virginia Beach. He is a 2012 UVA Wise grad with a passion for entrepreneurship, community outreach, and entertainment. He lives by the motto “You won’t just happen to make it, you have to make it happen.”
“Owning a business appears easy until you take the leap. You then realize there are so many parts and begin to feel lost. The GAUNTLET gave me the knowledge to put all the parts together and run my business with confidence!”
Joanna Carter, Uptown Aesthetics & Wellness
KC Photography is owned and operated by Katelyn Coker, who specializes in providing headshot photography services to the local business community. Services offered are individual, team, and volume-events headshots. Her goal is to inspire and build confidence of her clients. Through professional headshots, she helps them create their visual brand identity. She aims to ensure her clients feel empowered to represent themselves as professionals within their industries.
L & D Artisans, LLC is the brainchild of married couple, Leslie and Daniel Hayes. Together, they possess nearly 60 years of experience in retail management, customer service, marketing, metalsmithing, and wood crafting. The company’s success is rooted in the proprietors’ skill, attention to detail, and the ability to pivot when home and jewelry fashion markets shift.
“The GAUNTLET turned out to be the Journey I never knew I needed. In the beginning I second guessed my ability and what I thought I knew about running a business. Those worries turned into confidence as they gave me the resources and confidence to keep going. Its a community I never knew I needed and would suggest any small business owner to JOIN, regardless of where they are at in their journey.
RhiannaSchlief, Blue Ridge Outdoor School
Little Notions Quilt Shop is set to fill a significant gap in our crafting community in and around Dickenson County, VA by offering a variety of quilting and crafting supplies, including precut fabrics and quality threads, we aim to provide. Items not readily available locally. Beyond retail, our mission is to cultivate a vibrant space where individuals can gather to socialize, learn, and nurture their creative passions.
Livesay Home Repair, LLC is owned and operated by Charles Livesay. He has always liked to work with his hands and build things. He has worked in many fields of construction throughout the years while amassing a knowledge of many facets of home repair and construction. He plans to continue growing his knowledge and craftsmanship for many years to come.
Living Active Dementia’s Nationally Certified
Trainers at Living Active Dementia will help you navigate being a new caregiver, from the first call for help through the entire planning process of safety and wellness to allow for aging in place. By supporting the caregiver, Living Active Dementia enables the caregiver to support their loved one, through various educational means and methods.
Loud Hound Woodworking is a small custom furniture and repair shop. Our mission is to cater to the diverse needs of our community, offering a spectrum of services ranging from basic, costeffective repairs to the intricate design and construction of bespoke furniture pieces. With a strong foundation in woodworking and a passion for unparalleled customer service, we strive to exceed the expectations of our clients by delivering highquality solutions tailored to their unique furniture requirements.
Matt’s Custom Creations - Matt is a No Bounds Ambassador and the brains behind Matt’s Custom Creations. He will sell custom wood creations for any occasion. He wants to build his skills in business and that was and is his first choice of program of study, when he joined No Bounds. He is eager to see where The Gauntlet will take him
Nubian Heart & Soul Midwifery, LLC owned and operated by Shiimane Brown Stump is set to be the first black midwife in SWVA! She specializes in helping mothers with natural non medicated births, loss, anxiety and previous mood disorders. She is certified in newborn massage and overnight doula care, and is a certified newborn specialist.
Off the River Campground & RV Park aims to create a safe space in nature to recharge, reset, and refocus. OTR looks to open fall of 2023 and will offer camper rentals, lot space, outdoor events, glamping, and more right off the Smith River.
On the Mend Rapid Care of Vinton is a walk-in care clinic offering an affordable alternative for patients' non-emergent health care needs. Also, offering occ med, DOTs, labs, vaccines, physicals, drug screens, and sport physicals. They will be opened seven days a week with extended hours and telehealth service will be available for those not able to be seen in the clinic.
Ray’s Sweet Shoppe & Poutinerie, LLC is owned and operated by Frances Burton, a 58 year old mother, grandmother, nurse, and entrepreneur. She had been saying for a few years how much Covington, Va. needs a nice ice cream shop. Her son wanted to open a poutinerie, since he has lived in Canada in the past. So they did both, and added a little retail merchandise. It was named Ray's Sweet Shoppe & Poutinerie LLC, after Frances’ dad
Right Hand Virtual Assistant is your premier partner for comprehensive administrative support and business optimization solutions. With a commitment to delivering exceptional virtual assistance services tailored to your unique needs. Our mission is to empower you to thrive by providing reliable, efficient, and personalized virtual assistance, allowing you to focus on growing your business and achieving your goals.
Rustburg Vines is an established retail business situated at 3937 Campbell Highway, centered between the heart of Rustburg and Lynchburg, Virginia. We specialize in the design, production, and delivery of high-quality shirts. More importantly, we take immense pride in fostering a sense of community by actively promoting and collaborating with 26 other small businesses within our storefront. We pride ourselves on community over competition!
Sapphire Dementia Partners is an inclusive woman-owned business founded to empower people to build a compassionate dementia care culture. We provide education and consultation services to people living with dementia, their caregivers, and the organizations and businesses that support them.
“Participating in The GAUNTLET was an invaluable experience that not only challenged me to push the boundaries of innovation but also provided a platform to showcase my vision to a wider audience. It's in these moments of intense competition that we truly find our strengths, refine our strategies, and emerge stronger than ever. Win or lose, the journey itself was a testament to the resilience, creativity, and unwavering commitment driving me forward.”
Shana Ellington, Beyond the Dream, LLC
Solvency, LLC owned by K.J. Harkness, a seasoned professional with a multifaceted background that combines both technical acumen and digital expertise. This foundation was further enriched with hands-on experience at ClickUp, where K.J. played a pivotal role during its transformative journey to achieve a staggering $4B valuation.
Star City Savages is an independent publishing and gaming company committed to providing highquality gaming products and innovative science fiction. Our primary goal is to prioritize the immersive role-playing, character development, and gameplay elements of Tabletop RPGs. We understand the importance of delivering storytelling experiences to all gamers.
“Working with The GAUNTLET and The Advancement Foundation has been an incredible experience. Their guidance and support have been invaluable in helping me navigate this process, and they've introduced me to new lifelong friends!”
Stephanie Little, Little Notions Quilt Shop
The Carriage House of Covington is owned and operated by Shannon Hogan, a creative professional with over 25 years of experience in advertising, marketing, journalism, media coordinating, interior design, and management.
The Charc Board is a small eatery owned and operated by Misti Ramey in Wise, VA. Misti is a successful hair stylist, who also owned her own salon, where she provided client services for 32 years. Born in Kentucky, she now resides in Wise, VA with her husband Jackie and their sons, Jack and Jace.
The Country Crate, LLC owned by Heather Trivellin and her husband Hunter Trivellin, Country Crate will offer fresh fruits and vegetables in Buchanan, Virginia. Along with their two sons, they will be working hard to establish a brick and mortar location in 2024. Their goal is to be a community based grocery store offering affordable, healthier alternatives to other modern day food choices.
The Friendly Fork is a full-service catering company offering a selection of appetizers, main courses, sides, and desserts that will satisfy all tastes and budgets. The extensive menu includes a range of options that cater to various events, from a casual backyard BBQ to a formal wedding reception. Whether it’s a corporate event, a family gathering, or a formal occasion, The Friendly Fork has you covered.
The Gift Design Company’s owner Terence Carter spearheads the team's efforts to provide small businesses with branded merchandise and personalized products crafted to make them stand out in competitive markets. His unwavering dedication to brand differentiation fuels the development of unique branding strategies, amplifying the strengths and values of each client.
Therapeutic Elements, LLC considers each of their clients as individuals with his or her own unique needs. Many people today deal with chronic, unresolved pain, physical tension, and restricted movement which can leave anyone exhausted, frustrated, and depressed. Therapeutic Elements seeks to help you discover the underlying causes rather than masking the symptoms. We customize each massage, using various techniques to loosen up and decompress the muscle, promote healing process, and enhance our clients wellbeing.
Virago Health and Fitness is an online nutrition and fitness coaching practice that provides one-onone coaching, education, support, and personalized guidance for women. We help women improve their gut health, balance blood sugar levels, manage weight, and gain strength and confidence. At Virago we are passionate about helping women ditch diets.
“Prior to the GAUNTLET, I was suffering from a confidence crisis. I am now much more confident and feel my dreams can become a reality.”
Leslie Hayes, L&D Artisan Marketplace
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