This Week in 757 (Happenings) October 17, 2025

LOCAL HEADLINES

Twelve Startups Vying for $5,000 at the 2025 Start Peninsula Grand Finale on November 12

“These finalists represent the creativity, ambition, and resilience of Hampton Roads entrepreneurs,” said Tim Ryan, Executive Director of Innovate Hampton Roads. “We can’t wait to see which companies take home the top prizes at the Grand Finale.” For more information or to follow the event, visit Start Peninsula  or secure your free seat here. Read More ➜

Tidal Flight Takes Off: Hampton Roads Startup Secures $1.25M SBIR Award to Advance Hybrid-Electric Amphibious Aircraft

Tidal Flight’s SBIR selection underscores the momentum building in Hampton Roads’ entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem. These efforts are helping startups like Tidal Flight, many of them led by young, first-time entrepreneurs, bridge the gap between prototype and product, and between regional innovation and national impact. Read More ➜

Nick Rocha Is on a New Mission — Helping Veterans Find Purpose Through Career Training & Entrepreneurship

Located in Hampton Roads, Neptune Shield is a hybrid co-working and business incubation space designed to help veterans and early-stage companies grow, learn, and scale. [Nick] Rocha sees Hampton Roads as the perfect place for this to take root — a region rich in military heritage, maritime industry, and emerging technology talent. Read More ➜

Ignite Your Creative Spark: The 10th Annual NEON Festival Lights Up Norfolk's Innovation Scene!

Back in 2015, the NEON District (short for New Energy of Norfolk) emerged from a gritty automotive sales area into Hampton Roads' first official arts district, thanks to visionaries from the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, AltDaily, and Downtown Norfolk Council. This year's milestone edition, presented by Arts Alliance and PRA Group, cranks up the excitement with 10 new art projects honoring a decade of creativity (#10for10). Read More ➜

FERVENT FOUR
Beyond the Bark: Building Yellow Dog Through Grit and Curiosity
https://youtu.be/wxkxO87-Md8

Major Takeaways

• Curiosity and grit are essential traits for success in the tech industry, as they drive innovation and problem-solving.

• Building a supportive community and sharing insights with peers can significantly accelerate growth and learning in any business.

• Effective inventory management is crucial for operational efficiency, especially in dynamic environments like stadiums and resorts where demand fluctuates rapidly.

Was this email forwarded to you?

Don’t miss out on key business events, local success stories, and expert insights—subscribe to This Week in 757 and stay ahead in Hampton Roads’ innovation and business community. Subscribe here!

PARTNERS