On June 28, the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) and the Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) will co-host the NOVA Entrepreneurs Funding Forum, an informational session to assist entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses launch or grow their businesses in northern Virginia.

The event, which will take place at Valo Park in Tysons Corner from 8 to 11 a.m., will feature experts who will highlight access to capital and business resources including the newly created Virginia Founders Fund, a seed fund dedicated to investments in minorities, women, and veterans across Virginia.

Attendees will have opportunity to interact with service providers, venture capitalists, financing professionals and government officials. A light breakfast will be served during check-in, beginning at 7:30 a.m.  There is no cost to attend the event, however, registration is required. Click here to register.

“The Virginia Founders Fund is the latest in a variety of funding options designed to assist minorities, women and veterans turn their dreams into business ventures that will grow and stand the test of time,” said Gerald L. Gordon, Ph.D., president and CEO of the FCEDA.

“Experts at the June 28 Funding Forum will also discuss other funding options for entrepreneurs, startups and small businesses in northern Virginia. Sound Information about access to capital can be absolutely critical for young businesses and this free event will be a great first step toward establishing solid financial footing.”

Ed Albrigo, president and CEO of CIT noted: “There is a variety of funding options available to companies across the Commonwealth of Virginia – from seed funding to federal or state research grants. One of our highest priorities is placing an emphasis on educating our startups and entrepreneurs on these resources that will allow them to grow and succeed in Virginia.”

In addition to Gordon and Albrigo, featured speakers will include Robert Greene, president and CEO of the National Association of Investment Companies; Tom Weithman, president and CIO for MACH37 and managing director for CIT GAP Funds; Nancy Vorona, vice president of Research Investment for CIT; Dave Ihrie, CTO of CIT; Dan Henderson, investment director of CIT; and Antonio Doss, district director, U.S. Small Business Administration.

The Asian American Chamber of Commerce, Northern Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce and Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce have lent support to this event.

Time magazine called Fairfax County “one of the great economic success stories of our time.” Business growth and innovation helps Fairfax County fund one of the nation’s most prestigious school systems and other public services that contribute to the quality of life of residents. Fairfax County offers businesses a state-of-the-art infrastructure, access to global markets through Washington Dulles International Airport, a vibrant investment capital community and a highly skilled and well-educated workforce.

The award-winning Fairfax County Economic Development Authority promotes Fairfax County as a business and technology center. The FCEDA offers site location and business development assistance, and connections with county and state government agencies, to help companies locate and expand in Fairfax County. In addition to its headquarters in Tysons Corner, Fairfax County’s largest business district, the FCEDA maintains marketing offices in six important global business centers: Bangalore, Berlin, London, Los Angeles, Seoul and Tel Aviv. Follow the FCEDA on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.

Since 1985, CIT, a nonprofit corporation, has been Virginia’s primary driver of innovation and entrepreneurship. CIT accelerates the next generation of technology and technology companies through commercialization, capital formation, market development and revenue generation services. To facilitate national innovation leadership and accelerate the rate of technology adoption, CIT creates partnerships between innovative technology start-up companies and advanced technology consumers. Follow CIT on Twitter @CITorg and add the Center for Innovative Technology on LinkedIn and Facebook.

#            #            #