This Week in 757 (Happenings) October 31, 2025

LOCAL HEADLINES

ODU Partners With Google to Create MonarchSphere, a First-of-Its-Kind AI Innovation Hub

Old Dominion University, in partnership with Google Public Sector, has launched MonarchSphere, a first-of-its-kind AI incubator that gives students and faculty hands-on access to advanced AI tools, career-ready training, and research resources. From accelerating complex projects to streamlining course development, MonarchSphere is creating a campus-wide ecosystem where learning, innovation, and career preparation come together—and extends these opportunities to the broader Virginia community. Read More ➜

Tidal Flight Named 2025 Startup to Watch at 757 TechNite

At this year’s 757 TechNite Awards, the Startup to Watch category celebrated early-stage innovators that are not only pushing the limits of technology but also strengthening Hampton Roads’ growing startup community. Tidal Flight, this year’s Startup to Watch winner, is developing Polaris, a hybrid-electric amphibious aircraft designed to cut regional travel times in half by operating directly from waterways. Read More ➜

From Starship Scripts to Blast Bunkers: How Storytelling and Curiosity Built a Life-Saving Innovation

Raised in New England and spending four decades in Los Angeles, Gendel never expected he’d return to the East Coast to launch his first real business. Yet here he is, in the heart of Hampton Roads, translating years of creative experience into something tangible. Gendel’s early career was rooted in television. He wrote for Star Trek: The Next Generation, crafting episodes that won acclaim and connected him to engineers, NASA scientists, and thinkers who shared his fascination with what’s possible. Read More ➜

FERVENT FOUR
Off the Beaten Path: Building Where2Wheel
https://youtu.be/0CyWnNTdLog

Major Takeaways

• Effective follow-up and genuine networking can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth in a startup.

• Adapting and pivoting based on market needs and data is crucial for long-term success.

• The off-roading market is significantly larger and more diverse than initially perceived, with a growing number of women and beginners participating.

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