Mount Jackson: Open for Business & Ready to Help You Succeed!
Thinking of starting or expanding your business in a charming, supportive community? Look no further than Mount Jackson!
We understand that starting a business can be a big step. That's why we offer a variety of resources and incentives to help you succeed. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, we're here to support you every step of the way.
Here's what you can expect from Mount Jackson:
- A welcoming and supportive community: Connect with other local businesses and build valuable relationships.
- Access to valuable resources: Find information on local regulations, permitting, and financing options.
- Potential incentives: Explore potential incentives and grants that can help you get your business off the ground. Ready to learn more? Explore the resources available on this page and discover why Mount Jackson is the perfect place to grow your business.
Mount Jackson is a thriving community that supports local businesses. Check out these additional resources...
Economic Development Authority
The Mount Jackson Economic Development Authority (EDA) is a dedicated group that works to promote economic growth in the town. The EDA can provide valuable information and assistance to businesses, including:
- Site selection and development: The EDA can help businesses find suitable locations and navigate the development process.
- Funding opportunities: The EDA can connect businesses with potential funding sources, such as grants and loans.
- Business retention and expansion: The EDA works to retain existing businesses and encourage them to expand their operations.
- Facade Improvement Funding: The Town of Mount Jackson offers a facade improvement funding program to help businesses enhance the appearance of their storefronts. This program provides financial assistance for improvements such as: Painting, Signage, Awnings
FALL 2025: Exciting News for Mount Jackson: MJ5: The Nest is Ready to Launch!
Mount Jackson is thrilled to announce the next chapter in our vibrant entrepreneurial journey! Building on the incredible success of the 2024/2025 Mount Jackson 5 Grant Program, we are proud to launch "MJ5: The Nest," our ambitious Community Business Launch (CBL) program for 2025/2026. Thanks to the Virginia's Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the Town of Mount Jackson has been awarded $75,000 to bring this dynamic multi-business incubator to life!
A Look Back at Our Success: MJ5 2024/2025: The inaugural Mount Jackson 5 program was a resounding success, fostering a new wave of businesses that are already enriching our community and demonstrating the power of local entrepreneurship. We proudly celebrate the businesses that were successfully awarded funds and are now opening their doors or are poised to in early 2025:
- Valley Trail Bike and Run: Founded by Trey and Brice Nelson, this hub for outdoor enthusiasts offers biking and running gear, plus a full-service maintenance shop, filling a crucial market gap.
- Jillian's Farmstead Kitchen: Jillian's culinary haven, known for scratch-made sourdough and family-style meals, is offering catering, pick-up meals, and a welcoming spot for locals.
- Wild Child Museum and Menagerie: Rosie Lynch's vision is becoming Shenandoah County's ideal destination for indoor play and outdoor exploration, fostering a connection to nature for families.
- Hero's Journey Card Shop: Anthony High and Ethan Kissam's shop is becoming a community hub for trading card game enthusiasts, as they are hosting events and fostering connection.
These businesses exemplify the innovation and dedication that thrives in Mount Jackson, and their success laid the groundwork for our exciting new venture.
MJ5: The Nest – Nurturing Future Success: "MJ5: The Nest" is designed to directly address the critical need for accessible, supportive commercial spaces and a robust support system for aspiring entrepreneurs. We're transforming the vacant former hardware store at 5986 Main Street into a vibrant hub for innovation. This adaptable space will house five new businesses in its initial cohort, providing them with individual micro-retail spaces or booths within a collaborative environment, along along with essential shared amenities. Repurposing this historically significant property into "The Nest" symbolizes our commitment to revitalization and future economic prosperity.
Our Vision for Main Street through "The Nest" includes:
- Launching 5 new businesses within the first year, with a continuous pipeline of new ventures.
- Creating an estimated 10-15 new jobs in the first year and ensuring their retention.
- Leveraging initial grant funding to attract an estimated $75,000 - $100,000 in additional private investment.
- Significantly boosting foot traffic on Main Street, benefiting both incubator businesses and existing establishments.
- Fostering a collaborative environment that strengthens community pride and attracts more residents and visitors to our revitalized downtown.
"The Nest" will provide comprehensive support, including an expanded 8-week CBL program with weekly group meetings and 1:1 mentoring covering vital business planning, marketing, financial management, and more. The program includes a $50,000 prize pool, awarding $10,000 grants to five winning businesses. Beyond funding, participants will receive ongoing mentorship, a one-year free membership to the Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce, promotional features, and continued support from the Mount Jackson EDA.
We are strategically targeting artisan retail, specialty food & beverage, service-based businesses, and experiential retail for recruitment, aiming to fill identified retail gaps and capitalize on tourism.
Calling All Aspiring Entrepreneurs! Are you ready to turn your business idea into a reality? "MJ5: The Nest" is your opportunity to receive comprehensive training, mentorship, and crucial seed funding.
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/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.
We are incredibly excited about this opportunity to empower local talent and serve as a catalyst for long-term economic prosperity in Mount Jackson! To schedule a conversation about your 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)
REVUP Program
The REVUP program is a regional economic development initiative that provides technical assistance and funding to businesses in Shenandoah County. This program can help businesses with a variety of challenges, such as:
- Market research
- Business planning
- Access to capital
- Workforce development
Shenandoah Community Capital Fund
The Shenandoah Community Capital Fund (SCCF), formerly known as the Staunton Creative Community Fund, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit entrepreneurial support organization serving the entire Shenandoah Valley. Over the past 15 years the organization has expanded and innovated alongside the region’s entrepreneurs and small business owners to become one of the lead conveners in the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. SCCF’s ability to nimbly move throughout the region gives the organization a unique advantage in serving entrepreneurs and connecting resource providers. While based in Staunton, SCCF has continued to grow and now serves the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Through the amazing support of their staff, board members, volunteers, and donors, SCCF is able to provide programs and services that reach entrepreneurs all over the Shenandoah Valley. hello [at] sccfva.org (hello[at]sccfva[dot]org) | (540) 213-0333 |
11 N. Central Ave. Suite 210, Staunton, VA 24401
Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
The SBDC provides free and confidential business counseling and training to small businesses in Virginia. This valuable resource can help businesses with a variety of challenges, such as:
- Developing a business plan
- Securing financing
- Improving marketing and sales
- Managing finances
Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce
The Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce is a valuable resource for businesses in the county. The Chamber can provide:
- Networking opportunities
- Business advocacy
- Community information
- Member discounts