CIC Seeks Final Applicants for Fall 2026 Culpeper-Orange Entrepreneur Workshop

CULPEPER, Va. — July 2026 — Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) is making a final call for aspiring and existing entrepreneurs to apply for the Fall 2026 Culpeper-Orange (COW) Entrepreneur Workshop, a comprehensive training program designed to help small business owners and entrepreneurs build, grow, and sustain successful ventures.

With the application deadline approaching on July 3, 2026, CIC is encouraging community members, alumni, volunteers, and supporters to refer individuals who may benefit from expert guidance, practical business education, accountability, and a strong entrepreneurial network.

"The entrepreneurs who come through our program gain more than business knowledge—they become part of a supportive community that continues long after graduation," said Priscilla Akpalu, Entrepreneur Impact Manager for the Culpeper-Orange Entrepreneur Workshop. "We're looking for people with business ideas, side hustles, and established businesses who are ready to take the next step in their entrepreneurial journey."

The workshop serves entrepreneurs throughout:

• Culpeper County
• Orange County
• Fauquier County
• Greene County
• Madison County
• Rappahannock County
• Other surrounding communities

Program Highlights

The 16-week, in-person entrepreneur training program provides practical instruction and resources to help participants build stronger, more sustainable businesses.

Participants will receive training in:

• Business planning
• Marketing and customer development
• Bookkeeping and financial management
• Legal considerations
• Cash flow management
• Business operations and growth strategies

Classes are held Tuesdays from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and need-based scholarships are available. Upon completion, graduates leave with valuable connections to peers, mentors, and business resources that can support long-term growth and success.

Important Dates

• Applications Close: July 3, 2026
• Acceptance Notifications: July 21, 2026
• Orientation: August 4, 2026
• First Class: August 11, 2026

Community members who know aspiring entrepreneurs, small business owners, or side-hustle entrepreneurs are encouraged to share this opportunity and refer candidates before the application deadline.

For more information or to apply, visit:

Culpeper-Orange Entrepreneur Workshop (COW)

For questions about the program or applicant eligibility, contact:

Priscilla Akpalu
Entrepreneur Impact Manager
Community Investment Collaborative (CIC)