Mission
To provide women with the knowledge, skills, resources, and confidence necessary to achieve economic success and financial security.
History
New Visions, New Ventures (NVNV) was founded in 1998 and commenced formal operations in 1999 with a small entrepreneurial program for women in difficult life circumstances. Rapid growth ensued and over the past ten years the organization has evolved into a comprehensive community economic development organization that has served over 4200 individuals from across the Commonwealth.
Highlights
2001-2002
- Launched a community-based microenterprise program, with support from the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and the Virginia Department of Social Services.
- Implemented an Individual Development Account (IDA) program with funding from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
2003-2004
- Awarded a Women’s Business Center grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA). This grant enabled NVNV to expand tremendously; increasing its training and counseling activities while simultaneously growing its target market.
- Expanded the Financial Freedom training program and began offering classes throughout the community.
2005-2006
- Staff of the New Visions, New Ventures Women’s Business Center honored by the U.S. Small Business Administration as Women’s Business Champion of the Year for Virginia.
- Designated as a technical assistance provider for the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Community Express loan program.
- Launched a sector-based initiative, now known as Breadwinners, designed to provide access to markets and kitchen incubator services to women who are starting food businesses. Specifically, women receive training, technical assistance and hands-on work experience related to operating a food business, developing marketable products and packaging and distributing their baked goods and specialty foods.
