VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — As the landscape of today's entrepreneurs diversifies, there's a resource in Virginia Beach specifically designed to help small business owners, women and minority groups navigate the industry.
“We’re here to assist the small business community," said Lavera Tolentino, procurement administrator with the SWaM Business Office. "We can help you navigate."
Kip Washington started a janitorial services business, Refresh Cleaning LLC, about 20 years ago. His Virginia Beach enterprise has grown exponentially over time.
"I love what I do," he said.
Washington has continued to find success, thanks in part to resources from the SWaM Business Office.
"Several opportunities that I have now I would not have had, if it wasn't for the program," Washington added.
Located inside The HIVE at Virginia Beach Town Center, the SWaM Business Office assists small business owners, women, minority groups and service-disabled veterans.
From startup to legacy business owners, the office helps people from all over Hampton Roads. They offer a range of virtual information and training sessions.
"One of the real benefits is that they're free," said Tolentino.
She explained that part of the larger mission is ensuring those who secure city contracts represent the diversity in today's business landscape, "to coach, mentor and educate them on that procurement process."
The office was established following a 2018 disparity study conducted by an outside firm.
Since the study was released, the Virginia Beach City Council set goals for participation in city contracting.
The latest data from the fiscal year 2020 shows an increase in numbers from 2019, but an overall shortcoming of the city's goals.
However, that only means SWaM-owned businesses have more chances to grow and find opportunities.
"They may not want to bid on city contracts. But if you don't know you don't know so we ask you to come to us to find out," Tolentino added.
For Washington, dreams turned to reality.
He encouraged others to take a chance of themselves, whether they're a business owner now or aspiring to be.
"No matter what you feel inhibits you. There's nothing that can stop you but yourself. To pursue it and at the end, the rewards will be great," said Washington.