Roanoke County awards $115,000 in grants to boost local business growth
Roanoke, Virginia – Roanoke County has announced that it will provide $115,000 in grants to 13 local businesses through its Economic Development Authority (EDA) Business Equipment Acquisition Program (BEAP) Grant. This grant initiative supports the growth of local businesses by helping them acquire new capital, empowering them to expand their operations and increase overall economic vitality.
“Our local businesses are integral to Roanoke County,” shared EDA Chair Woody Windley. “These grants demonstrate the County’s support of many different types of companies in our community and their continued growth.”
Supporting Diverse Businesses in Roanoke County
The BEAP Grant Program was established as a pilot in fiscal year 2025, spanning from July 4, 2024, to June 30, 2025. The program specifically focuses on helping existing businesses within Roanoke County and the Town of Vinton by providing financial support for equipment and technology acquisitions essential for business expansion. Each business is eligible to receive a grant that covers up to 50% of their acquisition costs, with a cap of $20,000 per business.
The EDA evaluated applicants based on multiple factors, including whether they were locally owned, their total number of employees, their engagement with local business resources, and their impact on the local economy. Additionally, preference was given to businesses that prioritize local suppliers, further reinforcing the community-oriented goals of the program.
2025 BEAP Grant Recipients
The following businesses were awarded grants for the current fiscal year under the BEAP program:
- Children’s Castle Early Learning Center, Inc.
- Creative Occasions
- Fit Studio VA, Inc.
- Fleet Feet Roanoke
- Keltech, Inc.
- Stickers Plus Ltd. (DBA Magnets USA)
- Optical Cable Corporation (OCC)
- CMKS BBQ LLC (DBA Pok-e-Joe’s BBQ)
- Ride Source, LLC
- RND Coffee
- The Hearing Center at Hollins Communication Research Institute (DBA Beltone)
- Varsity Landscaping & Grounds, LLC
- William H. Moore Dentistry
Commitment to Economic Growth
The BEAP initiative reflects Roanoke County’s dedication to fostering economic growth and supporting a diverse range of businesses. By aiding companies across different industries, from early learning and fitness to landscaping and healthcare, Roanoke County aims to build a stronger, more resilient local economy. These grants are not only an investment in individual businesses but also a commitment to sustaining Roanoke’s economic progress and community welfare.
This program exemplifies Roanoke County’s proactive approach to enhancing the business environment and providing local companies with the resources needed to grow and thrive.