This Week in 757 (Happenings) November 7, 2025

LOCAL HEADLINES

The Playbook That's Turbocharging Innovation and Entrepreneurship

The Playbook, a collaborative effort funded by the Hampton Roads Alliance, Workforce Council, and GO Virginia, flips the script from chasing one-off companies to building thriving ecosystems. Eight flagship projects are already in motion, like the NEXUS hub for uncrewed systems (creating 2,500–4,000 jobs), the 757 Collab Defense Technology Accelerator for scaling startups into DoD contracts, and the Secure Energy Future Center turning energy challenges into commercial breakthroughs. Read More ➜

Celebrating Excellence in the Advancement of Defense Contracting at 757 TechNite

This year’s Advancement in Defense Contracting Award goes to G2 Ops, recognized for its leadership in helping defense programs engineer, secure, and modernize with speed and rigor. Sponsored by Valor Cybersecurity, this award recognized three standout finalists whose work reflects the strength and sophistication of the defense industrial base in the 757. Read More ➜

Building Tomorrow’s Business Leaders: Inside the Young Entrepreneurs Expo & Maker’s Market

On Saturday, November 1, nearly 30 “Kidpreneurs” ages 7 to 17 filled the Hilton Garden Inn in Suffolk with energy, ideas, and products that reflected both imagination and drive. Thanks to the Suffolk Executive Office Foundation, every participating Kidpreneur received a Southern Bank account pre-seeded with $25 to jumpstart their business journey. Read More ➜

FERVENT FOUR
How a Quarter-Life Crisis Sparked a National Brand
https://youtu.be/SbW6czQ4U9c

Major Takeaways

• Stress relief and holistic health can be effectively achieved through natural solutions like cold-pressed juices and adaptogens, as demonstrated by Megan Riggs' journey and product development.

• The success of a consumer product, especially in the competitive beverage industry, hinges not only on its quality but also on strategic marketing, market research, and fostering strong retail relationships.

• Achieving business milestones, such as national distribution or significant retail partnerships, often requires persistence, adaptability, and leveraging community support and mentorship.

  
  

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