Mount Jackson, VA – July 22, 2025 – The Town of Mount Jackson is thrilled to announce it has been awarded $75,000 from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) for its “Mount Jackson 5 / The Nest” community business launch initiative. This significant increase from last year’s $50,000 grant underscores DHCD’s continued confidence in Mount Jackson’s commitment to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Building on the inspiring success of the 2024/2025 Mount Jackson 5 Grant Program, which successfully supported the launch of four new businesses within the town, (Valley Trail Bike and Run, Jillian's Farmstead Kitchen, Wild Child Museum and Menagerie and Hero's Journey), the expanded 2025/2026 initiative, “MJ5: The Nest,” is set to elevate entrepreneurial support to new heights. The previous grant provided crucial seed funding and mentorship, enabling a diverse range of new ventures to take root in Mount Jackson.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development for their continued and expanded support,” said Olivia Hilton, Town of Mount Jackson Town Manager. “Last year’s grant was instrumental in helping us cultivate new businesses and inject fresh energy into our downtown. This new funding for ‘MJ5: The Nest’ allows us to not only attract and support entrepreneurs opening traditional brick-and-mortar businesses but also to provide a critical, nurturing environment for start-ups in a dedicated incubator space. This is a game-changer for our community’s economic development.”
“MJ5: The Nest” directly addresses a key challenge identified by last year’s participants: the need for smaller, accessible and affordable commercial spaces. Located at the vacant former hardware store at 5986 Main Street, “The Nest” will transform this historically significant property into a dynamic multi-business incubator. This adaptable space will initially house five new businesses in individual micro-retail spaces or booths within a collaborative environment, offering essential shared amenities and a robust support system.
Nathan Beall, property owner of 5986 Main Street in Mount Jackson, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “Seeing this historic building repurposed into ‘The Nest’ is a testament to Mount Jackson’s dedication to revitalization and future economic prosperity. I am proud to contribute to a space that will foster innovation, collaboration, and the growth of new businesses right here on Main Street.”
Through “MJ5: The Nest,” the Town of Mount Jackson aims to achieve significant outcomes, including launching additional new businesses in the first year, creating an estimated 10-15 new jobs, and attracting an estimated $75,000 - $100,000 in additional private investment. The initiative will also significantly boost foot traffic on Main Street and enhance community spirit.
The program is designed to incubate businesses for 12-24 months, preparing them for independent operation through a structured graduation process. Participants will benefit from an expanded 8-week Community Business Launch (CBL) program, offering weekly group meetings and 1:1 mentoring covering vital aspects of business planning, market research, financial management, and marketing strategies. Cash grants will be awarded to businesses who have successfully completed the training program and “pitched” their business plans to a guest panel. Beyond financial support, participants will receive ongoing mentorship, networking opportunities, a one-year free membership to the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce, promotional features, and direct access to free consultations with local industry experts.
“The Nest” will strategically target artisan retail, specialty food & beverage, service-based businesses, and experiential retail, addressing identified community needs and aiming to capitalize on tourism. To foster a collaborative environment, participating businesses will also have the opportunity to contribute to the operation of “The Nest” through shared responsibilities.
The Town of Mount Jackson is actively seeking entrepreneurs interested in launching or expanding upon their business dreams. Whether an aspiring business owner is ready to open independently in a brick-and-mortar location or needs the supportive next step of further developing their craft and business skills within “The Nest” cohort, this program offers tailored support.
Entrepreneurs interested in being considered for the 8-week program should submit their name, contact information, and a brief (bulleted) pitch regarding their business ideas, dreams, or vision. Those interested in participating must agree to:
- Participate in the required 8-week training sessions, which will be held Wednesdays from 6 PM to 9 PM at Mount Jackson Town Hall (5901 Main Street, Mount Jackson, VA) from September 10, 2025, through October 29, 2025.
- If awarded grant funding, agree to open their business within one year of receiving funds within the Town of Mount Jackson.
Town council and staff members are thrilled to provide this opportunity to empower local talent and serve as a catalyst for long-term economic prosperity in Mount Jackson! To schedule a conversation about business ideas and learn more about “MJ5: The Nest,” please reach out to: Olivia Hilton (Town Manager) or Greg Beam (Assistant Town Manager) 540.477.2121 or info [at] mountjackson.com (info[at]mountjackson[dot]com)
About Mount Jackson: The Town of Mount Jackson, Virginia, is a vibrant and historic community nestled in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. Dedicated to fostering a high quality of life for its residents, the Town continually seeks innovative ways to enhance community engagement, transparency, and access to services. Contact: To learn more about this and other Town of Mount Jackson initiatives please contact the Town of Mount Jackson at 540-477-2121 or info [at] mountjackson.com (info[at]mountjackson[dot]com)