Thrive in a Culture of Innovation
In Roanoke, you can find all the proven elements necessary to develop your innovative vision: research base, accelerators, a culture of entrepreneurship, funding, and a technically skilled workforce. Our powerful innovation ecosystem is just getting started thanks to the dedication and vision of our regional leaders and doers.
Advance your vision in culture where innovation is celebrated, big ideas thrive, and you can find collaboration and support on your journey toward growth. And with our convenient East Coast location, business incentives, and work-life balance that most people only dream of, the question is why choose anywhere else?
An Environment Primed for Growth
Roanoke is rich in resources: the natural, business, and human kind. From business incentives, to startup accelerators, Roanoke has everything you need and more.
Opportunity Zones
Roanoke’s Innovation Corridor is located in a federally designated Opportunity Zone. These Opportunity Zones are designed to offer tax benefits to investors while spurring economic growth.
Virginia Enterprise Zone
Downtown Roanoke and land parcels along Jefferson Street fall within the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program. You could qualify for state and local incentives, including the Real Property Investment Grant and/or the Job Creation Grant.
Historic Tax Credits
Undertake the compliant rehabilitation of historic buildings in Roanoke’s Innovation Corridor and enjoy substantial federal and/or incentives through Virginia’s Department of Historic Resources (DHR).
Real Estate Tax Exemption Program
Similarly, property owners who rescue, repair, or rehabilitate qualified older buildings in the City may be eligible for substantial estate tax relief through the City’s Real Estate Tax Exemption program.
The Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Alliance unites a portfolio of organizations with vision, strategy, and development resources to drive tech-based economic development in the region.
The Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program is the Roanoke region’s premier business accelerator for entrepreneurs working in the technology and life science spaces. They offer three levels of programming to take an idea to market and beyond.
The Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council is a member-driven association with programming aimed at helping entrepreneurs, mentors, investors, tech leaders, and disruptors make meaningful connections, find collaborators, and spark new ideas.
Common Wealth Angels
Common Wealth Angels is a dynamic network that connects regional entrepreneurs with a growing pool of certified investors.
Get In Touch
Want to learn more about opportunities in Roanoke’s Innovation Corridor? Reach out to Bradley Boettcher, Innovation Administrator of Roanoke’s Economic Development Office for more information.
