Danville to Host Southern Virginia Business & Procurement Experience

Event aims to equip local businesses with tools to grow and compete for larger opportunities

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism will host the Southern Virginia Business and Procurement Experience on April 30, 2026. The event is designed to provide local and regional businesses with the knowledge and connections needed to grow, including how to obtain contracts with large agencies, navigate the SWaM certification process, identify funding opportunities, access capital, and leverage local business support resources.

Why it matters

The event is part of the city's efforts to strengthen relationships between Danville and local businesses, ensuring the city can provide the best possible services to residents. By empowering small businesses, the city aims to boost the overall business community.

The details

The event will feature an interactive passport experience, allowing attendees to visit participating vendors and resource tables. Completed passports can be redeemed for giveaway items, including a $1,000 grant prize. The event will take place from 9am-2pm, and registration is free but required.

  • The event will be held on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
  • Registration is open now through the event date.

The players

Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism (DOEDT)

The city department hosting the Southern Virginia Business and Procurement Experience.

Briana Evans

City of Danville Assistant City Manager.

Samantha Bagbey

DOEDT Project Manager.

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What they’re saying

“Strong relationships between the City of Danville and local businesses strengthen our community overall and make sure Danville can provide the best possible services to residents. This event is designed to make it easier for businesses to work with the City and open the door for more businesses to earn City contracts.”

— Briana Evans, City of Danville Assistant City Manager

“Our office is committed to empowering small businesses. This event, now in its fourth year, will strengthen our business community by connecting entrepreneurs to new tools, resources, and ideas that help set them on a path to long-term success.”

— Samantha Bagbey, DOEDT Project Manager

What’s next

Interested businesses can register at https://forms.office.com/r/gcrgG296aK. Vendors and potential resources can register at https://forms.office.com/r/MrUPez8vPV.

The takeaway

The Southern Virginia Business and Procurement Experience is a key initiative by the City of Danville to support local businesses and strengthen the city's overall business community. By providing access to resources, funding, and networking opportunities, the event aims to empower small businesses and position them for long-term success.