Inside Business

June 10, 2026 at 2:06 p.m.

“The military gave me a huge advantage for starting this business. The pension provides financial...

The building that will house The Boutiques at Virginia Beach. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

The Boutiques at Virginia Beach to open in former Painted Tree location

June 9, 2026 at 12:00 p.m.

Painted Tree Boutiques had abruptly closed its doors on April 14. The retailer taking its...

An artistic rendering of a 105-unit residential and commercial development planned for South Battlefield Boulevard in Chesapeake. (Courtesy/Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer)

Public Records: 105 new homes planned in Chesapeake; Tavern signs lease in Hampton

June 8, 2026 at 7:14 a.m.

View the latest commercial property transactions in Hampton Roads.

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital at 1060 First Colonial Road, in Virginia Beach. (Staff/File)

Business Notes: Clinic reopens at Sentara Virginia Beach hospital; New Kent starts microtransit service

June 7, 2026 at 11:37 a.m.

See which businesses or professionals are celebrating milestones or earning accolades.

A person purchases gasoline at a station March 24, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley, File)

Consumer sentiment on economy at all-time low, ODU economist says: ‘Americans aren’t very happy’

June 5, 2026 at 7:06 p.m.

It would not be surprising if gas prices rise to $5 a gallon this summer...

Cafe Nectar on Virginia Beach Boulevard sells Glazed and Infuzed's signature doughnuts. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

Virginia Beach doughnut truck gains new storefront, new name: Cafe Nectar

June 4, 2026 at 2:44 p.m.

Glazed and Infuzed, a truck that’s been serving vanilla cake doughnuts dusted in flavored sugars...

This example of a ShoreDrop beach gear setup at the Oceanfront in Virginia Beach includes chairs, coolers and shade. (ShoreDrop)

College students launch app-based beach gear delivery service at Virginia Beach Oceanfront

June 4, 2026 at 2:10 p.m.

Currently, the service operates between 42nd and 86th streets at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront.

A reception recognized Sentara Obici's revamped Heritage Garden, which abuts a memorial wall that is the resting place of the hospital's founder and his wife. (Stephen M. Katz/The Virginian-Pilot)

Sentara Obici Hospital redesigns garden where namesakes are memorialized

By Colin Warren-Hicks

June 4, 2026 at 1:51 p.m.

The Heritage Garden at Sentara Obici Hospital went through a major redesign and is now...

The Chesapeake House, a three-bedroom, 2.5-bath property, was recently renovated to serve women veterans facing housing instability. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

Chesapeake House opens its doors for women veterans in need

June 4, 2026 at 7:44 a.m.

Currently, the nonprofit is working with homeowners in Portsmouth and South Hill, negotiating terms for...

Caesars Virginia's entrance in Danville features a statue of Julius Caesar. (Michael Rudin/Caesars Entertainment)

Caesars Virginia acquired in $17.6B deal said to create broad array of options for customers

By Charles Wilborn

June 3, 2026 at 8:22 a.m.

On May 28, Caesars Entertainment announced that it was entering into an agreement to be...

Chesapeake Regional Medical Center in 2024. (Nate Delesline III/The Virginian-Pilot File)

Chesapeake Regional Healthcare CEO exits

June 1, 2026 at 7:50 p.m.

Amber Egyud, the healthcare system’s chief operating officer and chief nursing officer, has been appointed...

Tisa, at bottom, interacts with another giraffe in their enclosure at the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk in 2023. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot File)

Business Notes: Virginia Zoo receives environmental award; new airport hangar opens in Currituck County

June 1, 2026 at 7:44 a.m.

View the latest business milestones, accolades, grants and donations in Hampton Roads.

Michelle Wren, executive director of Portsmouth Partnership. (Portsmouth Partnership)

Family tradition of service honored in 2026 Portsmouth First Citizen

May 31, 2026 at 3:38 p.m.

Michelle Wren is the executive director of Portsmouth Partnership, which supports economic development, leadership and...

A view of a crane and dry dock at Newport News Shipbuilding in Newport News on Jan. 27, 2026. (Peter Casey/The Virginian-Pilot)

Navy’s new Trump-class battleship likely will be completed at Newport News shipyard

May 29, 2026 at 9:27 a.m.

The Navy revealed in its latest 30-year shipbuilding plan, released in May, that the battleship...

Assistant General Manager Rashard Hunley hands a customer their order at the McDonald's on St. Paul’s Boulevard in Norfolk on May 22. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Multiple McDonald’s restaurants in Norfolk under new ownership are undergoing renovations

May 28, 2026 at 6:10 p.m.

A new McDonald's franchisee came to town, and he's modernizing and renovating restaurants as well...

ODU students walk on Monarch Way. (Courtesy/Old Dominion University)

Public Records: Mojo Bones extends lease at ODU; 132 acres sold in Surry County

May 28, 2026 at 9:39 p.m.

View the latest commercial property transactions in Hampton Roads.

Ruth Jones Nichols (Dexter D. Cohen/Courtesy of Nichols)

Expert column: The art of women’s leadership is Hampton Roads’ competitive edge

By Ruth Jones Nichols

May 27, 2026 at 11:20 a.m.

As Hampton Roads continues positioning itself as a more competitive, resilient, and future-ready region, there...

The TowneBank annual shareholders meeting paid tribute to America’s 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with a performance of the national anthem by Regent University Singers and presentation of colors by members of Naval Air Station Oceana’s Center for Naval Aviation Technical Training Unit Color Guard. (Andi Petrini/For Inside Business)

TowneBank touts extending footprint beyond Virginia following acquisitions

By Dave Ress, Richmond Times-Dispatch

May 27, 2026 at 7:31 a.m.

TowneBank grew its Hampton Roads market share from 0.75% when it opened in 1999 to...

Langley Federal Credit Union employees volunteer at the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore. (Langley Federal Credit Union)

Expert column: Engagement is not a perk. It is a strategy.

By A. Jerome Fowlkes

May 26, 2026 at 1:34 p.m.

If you lead an organization, here is the honest takeaway. You cannot "event" your way...

Columbia Gas of Virginia is looking to increase its base rates beginning in October. (Columbia Gas of Virginia)

Columbia Gas of Virginia seeks 11% hike in gas rate

May 26, 2026 at 11:53 a.m.

Columbia's network of some 5,600 miles of pipelines serves 290,000 customers in Virginia, including in...

The Fiddlin' Pig’s Wyatt Elliott folds napkins in preparation for dinner service Wednesday, May 20, 2026, in Smithfield. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot)

Smithfield pub embraces all things British, including a no-tipping culture

May 26, 2026 at 7:26 p.m.

The Fiddlin' Pig, a British pub in Smithfield, also emulates the “no tipping” practice commonplace...

The Civic Scholars Class of 2026 participated in a program focused on nonprofits and board service hosted by the Virginia Zoo on Nov. 4, 2025. (Civic Leadership Institute)

Civic Leadership Institute’s Scholars Program expands reach to include more students

May 25, 2026 at 12:30 p.m.

The collegiate program helps students develop connections with leadership executives across Hampton Roads industries and...

Pictured here is 1137 Progress Road, Suffolk. (Cushman & Wakefield)

Public Records: Suffolk industrial building sold; car wash coming to J. Clyde Morris Boulevard

May 27, 2026 at 8:49 p.m.

View the latest commercial property transactions in Hampton Roads.

A Hampton Roads nonprofit, Dorm Fairies, helps eligible students outfit their college dorms with essential items. (Dorm Fairies)

Dorm Fairies nonprofit helps Hampton Roads students transition to college

May 24, 2026 at 4:04 p.m.

Since 2019, Dorm Fairies has supported 215 college students with over $80,000 in awards for...

Grand Furniture recently presented new beds to 50 local kids at Norfolk State University's Echols Arena. (Grand Furniture)

Business Notes: Grand Furniture donates 50 beds to kids; Deep Creek Bridge project reaches milestone

May 27, 2026 at 8:49 p.m.

See which Hampton Roads businesses are giving back and which ones are celebrating milestones.

Amazon celebrated the opening of its 3.2 million-square-foot robotics fulfillment center off Dam Neck Road in Virginia Beach on May 15. (Amazon)

Amazon celebrates opening of Virginia Beach robotics facility

May 24, 2026 at 10:04 a.m.

It's Amazon's third robotics fulfillment center in Virginia.

Angelo Theodorogiannis, founder of Angelo's Steak and Pancake House in Newport News, died on May 19 following injuries from a crash on Interstate 664 when he was driving a pickup truck, state police confirmed. He turned 76 on May 18. (Courtesy/Costa Theodorogiannis)

Beloved restaurateur behind Angelo’s in Newport News dies following injuries from I-664 crash

May 22, 2026 at 6:01 p.m.

Angelo Theodorogiannis, 76, died on May 19 following injuries from a vehicle crash on Interstate...

A statue of Thomas Jefferson greets visitors at the main lobby at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond in 2016. (Steve Helber/AP)

In reversal, Jefferson Hotel will save historic Richmond church

By Eric Kolenich

May 21, 2026 at 8:07 a.m.

The Baptist church was built in 1905 at 13 W. Franklin St., across North Adams...

Suffolk Mayor Mike Duman addresses the crowd of more than 580 attendees during the 2026 Suffolk State of the City on Tuesday. (Sandra J. Pennecke/The Virginian-Pilot)

Suffolk mayor shares city growth story — and a commitment to help with traffic congestion

May 20, 2026 at 5:08 p.m.

Ongoing traffic congestion is being addressed through 21 projects in design or under construction —...

Spirit Airlines planes are grounded at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport after flights were canceled on May 2 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel)

Ex-Spirit workers sue, saying airline failed to give proper layoff notices, owes back pay and benefits

By David Lyons

May 19, 2026 at 8:12 a.m.

The workers are six laid-off Spirit employees who seek to represent a class of approximately...

The Richmond Free Press ended its run in February. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Former Richmond newspaper building sold to apartment developer for $2 million

By Eric Kolenich

May 18, 2026 at 10:46 a.m.

The Black community newspaper ceased publication in February.

Dominion Energy’s Eastern Regional Operations Center sits on Cromwell Drive in Norfolk on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Dominion Energy to be acquired by Florida-based NextEra Energy

May 18, 2026 at 6:08 p.m.

The combined company would operate under the NextEra Energy name. The merger would create one...

Mae (short for Maestro) is a new AI-powered platform that will put a (digital) face on Minneapolis-based HomeServices of America, which owns mortgage, title, insurance and escrow companies, among others. The nation's biggest homeownership service provider also owns major brokerages across the country, including Edina Realty. (AI-generated image/HomeServices of America/TNS)

How Mae, an AI real estate agent, is putting a face on HomeServices of America

By Jim Buchta

May 18, 2026 at 9:50 a.m.

HomeServices is trying to raise its profile through a rebranding effort and the launch of...

8012 Hankins Industrial Park in James City County. (Courtesy/Cushman & Wakefield | Thalhimer)

Public Records: Toano building sold for $2.7M; Tacos y Tequila leases space in Chesapeake

May 18, 2026 at 8:33 a.m.

Philly Cheese Steak leased space on Jefferson Avenue in Newport News; Thai Best leased space...

An aerial view of Virginia Beach’s Town Center in 2019. (Stephen M. Katz/The Virginian-Pilot)

Business Notes: Virginia Beach disability advocates honored; free mortgage for military family

May 17, 2026 at 3:08 p.m.

View the latest business happenings in Hampton Roads.

AJ and Shaina Hartless opened The Void when they couldn't find the right aesthetic and space for their business. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

The Void fills a gap for small businesses, creatives in Virginia Beach

May 17, 2026 at 1:46 p.m.

"We wanted to build a creative environment where businesses could grow individually while still being...

Virginia Beach Clothes Mentor franchisee Stephanie Baum has been in the retail industry for 35 years. She’s been a ladies apparel buyer for Burdines department store, Macy’s, PacSun and Family Dollar. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

New Clothes Mentor in Virginia Beach, run by retail veteran, offers sustainable style

May 17, 2026 at 9:39 a.m.

Local franchisee Stephanie Baum has been in the retail industry for 35 years. She’s been...

Gold Key | PHR and McLeskey partnered to launch Cadenz, a new development and construction management firm headquartered at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. A past project for McLeskey was The Reserve at Cedar Point in Suffolk, shown here. (Cadenz)

Virginia Beach developers launch firm to turn complex jobs into streamlined projects

May 16, 2026 at 12:56 p.m.

Gold Key | PHR and McLeskey partnered to launch Cadenz, a new development and construction...

Graduating ODU senior Leah Hallwirth holds her “6-7” chicken nuggets on Old Dominion University’s campus in Norfolk on Thursday, May 14, 2026. Hallwirth pitched the idea for a marketing project and it was picked up by Perdue. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

ODU graduating senior turns viral 6-7 trend into national chicken nugget launch

May 15, 2026 at 5:22 p.m.

Panko-breaded chicken nuggets, shaped as 6's and 7's, went on sale on May 1 as...

Scott Birmingham and his son, Daniel, both work for JRC Mechanical in Chesapeake. Daniel Birmingham is a standout graduate of Norfolk Technical Center's plumbing apprenticeship program. Scott Birmingham will graduate on Friday from the same program, making him the oldest to complete it to date. (Birminghams)

Navy veteran follows in son’s footsteps through plumbing apprenticeship program at 61

May 14, 2026 at 3:08 p.m.

On Friday night, Scott Birmingham, 61, will walk across the stage as the oldest apprentice...

A rendering shows the emergency department entrance in a planned $200 million expansion at Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital in Newport News. (Bon Secours)

Bon Secours breaks ground on $200M, 4-story patient tower at Mary Immaculate in Newport News

May 14, 2026 at 2:08 p.m.

“The new tower represents a significant investment in the future of care right here in...

A Nutella bowl at Playa Bowls. The chain will open its 400th store in Virginia Beach's Atlantic Park development on Friday. (Courtesy/Playa Bowls)

Opening soon: Playa Bowls at Virginia Beach’s Atlantic Park

By Rekaya Gibson

May 14, 2026 at 4:01 p.m.

The grand opening kicks off at 11 a.m. Friday, and the first 100 people will...

The Salvation Army of the Virginia Peninsula celebrates its new headquarters at a former church in the Denbigh area of Newport News with a building dedication on Thursday. (Courtesy/Salvation Army)

Peninsula Salvation Army moves into larger headquarters to better serve community

May 11, 2026 at 5:22 p.m.

The nonprofit organization celebrates its 128th year of service on the Peninsula this week at...

Sales down, but profit up for ABC stores in Virginia

By Michael Martz

May 11, 2026 at 11:19 a.m.

With about 60 home-grown distillers in Virginia, the industry is also worried about ABC cutting...

Royal Pointe apartments in Virginia Beach. (Bonaventure)

Public Records: Virginia Beach apartments sold; Orange Theory renews lease in Sandbridge

May 11, 2026 at 9:19 a.m.

Orange Theory renewed its lease at Sandbridge Commons. View more public records regarding transactions in...

Then-Virginia Secretary of Transportation Sheppard Miller III speaks during an event celebrating Mary, the Tunnel Boring Machine, breaking through the final headwall of the new Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel in 2025. Then-Gov. Glenn Youngkin listens in the background. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Inside Business Power List 2026: Emeritus

May 11, 2026 at 8:49 a.m.

All the people on this Emeritus List are engaged in the community and have been...

Hundreds attend the unveiling of the African Landing Memorial at Fort Monroe on April 24. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot File)

Inside Business Power List 2026: 75 power players

May 11, 2026 at 7:24 a.m.

These 75 power players come from various backgrounds and sectors and are visible leaders in their...

An aerial view of Olde Towne, and downtown Portsmouth, with downtown Norfolk, and the Elizabeth River in the background. The percentage of Hampton Roads residents dissatisfied with the region's quality of life has reached a 10-year high, according to a new Old Dominion University survey. (File photo)

Inside Business reveals the 2026 Power List and Top 25

May 11, 2026 at 8:22 a.m.

Inside Business creates its annual Power List to highlight the people who are influencing the...

Nearly 130 people recently graduated from the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School. (Courtesy/Ashley Cowan/Huntington Ingalls Industries)

Business Notes: 128 graduate from Apprentice School; 196 books donated to CHKD

May 10, 2026 at 1:52 p.m.

The Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School recently celebrated the graduation of 128 people, Sylvan Learning...

Mr Fix, an electronics repair business, is seen in Norfolk on Friday, May 1, 2026. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Customers turned thieves: Ongoing thefts at Mr Fix’s stores in Hampton Roads prompt frustration for owner, employees

May 10, 2026 at 9:31 a.m.

Even with rules in place — including customers being required to present their identification as...

Sarah J. McCoy was appointed the CEO of the Port of Virginia on Wednesday. (Port of Virginia)

Port of Virginia names its new chief executive officer

May 6, 2026 at 6:50 p.m.

Sarah J. McCoy, a 12-year port authority veteran who has served as the interim CEO...

Bains Pointe, a new affordable housing community, is seen on the day of its grand opening celebration in Portsmouth on Tuesday. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

New affordable housing community opens in the heart of Portsmouth

May 6, 2026 at 4:34 p.m.

Bains Pointe caters to residents earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income....

Three Ships Coffee is celebrating 10 years in the ViBe Creative District of Virginia Beach. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

Three Ships Coffee celebrates brewing in the ViBe for over 10 years

May 3, 2026 at 3:09 p.m.

“Three Ships Coffee quickly became a neighborhood anchor in the ViBe,” said Kate Pittman, ViBe’s...

Give Local 757 is a 24-hour online fundraiser for Hampton Roads nonprofits. (Courtesy/Peninsula Community Foundation)

‘Take care of what is right in front of you’ with Give Local 757 on Tuesday

May 3, 2026 at 10:48 a.m.

Give Local 757 is a 24-hour online fundraiser for 262 Hampton Roads nonprofits on Tuesday.

Norfolk-based Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers is donating two billboards in prominent regional locations to two nonprofits each quarter. (Cooper Hurley)

Cooper Hurley to offer free billboard space to Hampton Roads nonprofits

May 3, 2026 at 3:10 p.m.

The campaign will also include public relations and digital and social media efforts to extend...

Old Dominion University Recreational Therapy Student Cierra Velzis helps Trudy Buehring mark her bingo card during an afternoon of enrichment at Harbor's Edge, an assisted living and retirement community, in Norfolk on Dec. 9, 2025. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Which are rated the best senior living communities in Hampton Roads?

May 2, 2026 at 3:13 p.m.

Of 566 senior living communities in the commonwealth, 126 were evaluated and 61 were rated,...

Innovate Hampton Roads hosted a "State of Innovation" lunch at The Mariners' Museum on April 1 to bring together industry leaders, resource managers, startups and innovators to connect the dots of opportunity and forward momentum. (Innovate Hampton Roads)

‘State of Innovation’: Hampton Roads’ foundation for growth ready for takeoff, leaders say

By Yana Ginburg

May 2, 2026 at 11:20 a.m.

“There is a significant amount of innovation happening across Hampton Roads,” said Zack Miller, Innovate...

John Y.K. Lee moves a solar panel to the edge of his roof in Haverford, Pennsylvania. (David Maialetti/The Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS)

‘Use it or lose it’: Solar advocates say IRS is still writing checks for solar credits, so go get yours

By Anya Litvak

May 1, 2026 at 5:20 p.m.

There is still a short window for businesses, nonprofits and municipalities to squeeze benefits from...

The sun sets over Harbor Park during the third inning of the game between the Norfolk Tides and the Memphis Redbirds in Norfolk on April 22. (Peter Casey / The Virginian-Pilot)

Business Notes: Cooper Hurley partners with Norfolk Tides; Planet Fitness opens in Poquoson

May 1, 2026 at 12:25 p.m.

Hampton Roads businesses are celebrating milestones and giving back.

The home of the new Secure Energy Future Center at Tech Center Research Park in Newport News, as seen April 22 after its grand opening ceremony. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot)

Newport News opens Secure Energy Future Center to attract and drive innovation

April 30, 2026 at 5:29 p.m.

Virginia Tech President Tim Sands said the center also will work in partnership with regional...

Real estate agent Sue Liedke photographs a listing with Exit Elevate Realty. Liedke's popular Instagram account shares photos of quirky South Philly homes and the interest spurred her to get her real estate license. (Monica Herndon/The Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS)

Influencer or agent? In today’s market, Realtors have to be both to score clients.

By Abigail Covington

April 30, 2026 at 2:13 p.m.

According to the National Association of Realtors, social media is now the industry’s predominant method...

Fresh produce is illuminated in the coolers at E. Palmer Supermarket in Norfolk on Wednesday, April 22, 2026. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Hampton Roads consumers find rising cost of groceries hard to stomach

May 1, 2026 at 9:12 p.m.

The Virginian-Pilot and Daily Press took a look at how shoppers in Hampton Roads are...

Multiple Newport News Shipbuilding workers were taken to the hospital following suspected carbon monoxide exposure. (Staff/file)

Newport News shipyard workers taken to hospital after suspected carbon monoxide exposure

April 29, 2026 at 1:58 p.m.

A spokesman said the shipbuilders were working inside of a submarine unit, located outside, in...

Members of the United Steelworkers Local 8888 gather in Newport News for a flag lowering to mark Workers Memorial Day on Tuesday. (Stephen M. Katz / The Virginian-Pilot)

Newport News steelworkers commit to fight for safer workplaces as they remember fallen shipbuilders

April 29, 2026 at 6:23 p.m.

In 2024 in Virginia alone there were 137 work-related deaths, Doris Crouse-Mays, president of Virginia...

Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger addresses the crowd after taking the oath of office during an inauguration ceremony at the Virginia State Capitol in Richmond on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Virginia awards $18M in grants to rocket parts maker doubling operations in Orange County

By Heather Price Ives

April 29, 2026 at 8:02 a.m.

Virginia is chipping in some $18 million to keep that private investment coming.

After 48 years of serving cheesesteaks, Jeff Fuller is retiring and will close the Philly Cold Cuts location on Nimmo Parkway, in Virginia Beach. The Great Neck location will remain open. (Stephen M. Katz/The Virginian-Pilot)

A top cheesesteak maker, Philly Cold Cuts, to close a Virginia Beach location as owner retires

By Rekaya Gibson

April 29, 2026 at 11:54 a.m.

Jeffrey Fuller plans to retire after making cheesesteaks and hoagies for others for 48 years....

A cannabis bud on display at Grow Depot, Sunday, April 26, in Virginia Beach. (Stephanie Kalis/for The Virginian-Pilot)

Hampton Roads small businesses react to retail cannabis legislation

April 28, 2026 at 10:31 a.m.

About 40 people gathered in a meeting room of Grow Depot in Virginia Beach on...

A school bus driver exits a bus at the service center for operations and transportation in Newport News. (Staff/File)

Business Notes: Newport News receives teacher retention grant; Virginia Beach architecture firm honored

April 27, 2026 at 8:29 a.m.

A $500,000 grant was awarded to the Newport News Education Foundation to strengthen the school...

The Back Nine Golf recently opened at 2476 Nimmo Parkway in Courthouse Marketplace shopping center. The 2,982-square-foot location, owned by franchisees Lenzy and Jannice Chambers, features four simulator bays and three active Full Swing golf simulators. (Back Nine)

Back Nine Golf franchise with high tech simulators opens in Virginia Beach

April 26, 2026 at 1:35 p.m.

The Back Nine features golf simulators that give instant feedback on every shot to the...

A worker from Portland General Electric replaces a power line as crews work to restore power after a storm on Jan. 16, 2024, in Oregon. (Jenny Kane/AP File)

Centura College launches electrical lineworker training in Norfolk

April 26, 2026 at 11:24 a.m.

The program provides hands-on training in high-voltage safety, utility pole climbing, and field operations.

The view of Newport Gardens, a new affordable housing complex composed of 50 units, from the resident parking area is photographed in Norfolk’s Park Place Neighborhood on Dec. 17, 2025. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

A regional path forward: Advancing affordable housing in Hampton Roads | Expert column

By Jane Ferrara

April 25, 2026 at 8:56 a.m.

Solving the affordable housing shortage in Hampton Roads will take more than awareness; it requires...

For sale sign seen in Norfolk on Oct. 22, 2024. (Staff/File)

Affordability a ‘monster’ challenge in Hampton Roads’ housing market in 2025, report says

April 28, 2026 at 2:01 p.m.

This year is expected to bring more clarity than chaos, but not necessarily more comfort...

An interior view of the Concourse A expansion at Norfolk International Airport.(Norfolk International)

Concourse expansion with new concessions opens at Norfolk airport

April 24, 2026 at 8:27 a.m.

The work is part of an ongoing multiyear $1 billion capital improvement project to expand...

Tech Center Research Park Managing Director Chelsea Olivieri works at the intersection of energy solutions and economic development. She recently spoke at a Virginia Economic Developers Association event. (Courtesy/Tech Center)

Newport News at center of energy innovation, Tech Center Research Park managing director says

April 22, 2026 at 12:04 p.m.

Chelsea Olivieri is the managing director of Tech Center Research Park and the Secure Energy...

Coastal brand Faherty opens store at Atlantic surf park in Virginia Beach

April 22, 2026 at 9:40 a.m.

The store has included some local touches with its line of Virginia Beach merchandise.

A Rocket Lab Electron rocket makes its first-ever launch from the U.S. lifting off from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Spaceport at NASA Wallops Flight Facility on Jan. 24, 2023. The company has used Small Business Innovation Research funding for research and development. (Rocket Lab/TNS)

Trump signs bill reauthorizing federal aid to defense, aerospace startups

By Laurence Darmiento

April 21, 2026 at 8:01 a.m.

The Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act signed by Trump on Monday funds the...

U.S. Bancorp is partnering with Amazon on credit cards tailored to small-business owners. (Dreamstime/TNS)

US Bank partners with Amazon on small-business credit cards

By Bill Lukitsch

April 20, 2026 at 12:04 p.m.

The bank expects the new Amazon cards will help owners manage expenses, and the cards...

Customers at The Cheese Shop on Merchants Square in Williamsburg can enjoy made-to-order sandwiches or cheese plates on its patio. (Staff/File)

Business Notes: Williamsburg Cheese Shop honored; new members join Chesapeake Alliance

April 20, 2026 at 8:56 a.m.

Two Hampton Roads businesses were ranked among the friendliest in the country: Williamsburg Cheese Shop...

Suffolk-based TowneBank has sold the resort property management division of its company. (Staff/File)

Suffolk-based TowneBank sells its resort property management division

April 19, 2026 at 3:37 p.m.

Towne Vacations was sold to Belcrest Vacations Acquisitions for $250 million on April 6.

Carmit Bachar, a longtime Operation Smile ambassador who is best known as a founding member of The Pussycat Dolls, plans to host the nonprofit's spring gala in Virginia Beach on May 5. (Operation Smile)

Operation Smile’s spring gala to bring celebrities to Virginia Beach on May 5

April 19, 2026 at 9:36 a.m.

Virginia Beach-based Operation Smile is a nonprofit that provides free surgeries to help children with...

The Retail Alliance honored Philip M. Scotti as the Lifetime Achievement Award winner at its 2025 annual meeting. Shown from left is the Retail Alliance's Tara Jones; Bob Harper, chairman of the board; Scotti, board member; and Jenny Crittenden, president and CEO. (Retail Alliance)

Retail Alliance celebrates Phil Scotti as Lifetime Achievement honoree

April 18, 2026 at 2:16 p.m.

The Retail Alliance recently celebrated its 2025 Retailer of the Year award winners.

Hampton Plaza Shopping Center at 4019 W. Mercury Blvd. in Hampton. (Harvey Lindsay)

Public Records: Hampton shopping center sold; Shake Shack to open in Chesapeake

April 18, 2026 at 1:31 p.m.

Here are the latest business openings and sales.

A Groundworks employee works on lifting a foundation. (Groundworks)

Virginia Beach-based Groundworks commits to hiring 5,000 employees throughout the U.S. in next 5 years

April 18, 2026 at 11:53 a.m.

Hampton Roads remains a key area for the company’s growth, but founder Matt Malone said...

The humidors in the smoking room at Tailored Smoke in Newport News offer more than 60 “faces” or varieties. (Andi Petrini/For Inside Business)

Newport News cigar lounge owner, entrepreneur, pivots from health care

April 18, 2026 at 10:24 a.m.

She is the first woman to own a lounge in the franchise and has seen...

John Reinhart led the Virginia Port Authority as CEO and executive director from 2014 to 2021. Here, he celebrates a groundbreaking for an expansion at Norfolk International Terminals in 2015. Reinhart died on Saturday. (Staff/File)

John Reinhart, who led Port of Virginia turnaround, dies at 72

April 15, 2026 at 7:22 p.m.

The Virginia Port Authority, branded as the state-run Port of Virginia, lauded Reinhart as “an...

Painted Tree Boutiques abruptly closed all locations, including the Virginia Beach marketplace, on Tuesday. (Courtesy/Melissa Smith)

Painted Tree in Virginia Beach abruptly closes with no notice to vendors

April 15, 2026 at 1:16 p.m.

The company confirmed that it was closing all of its more than 60 locations nationwide.

The Cinema Cafe at 752 Independence Blvd., Suite, 4590, in Virginia Beach. (Cinema Cafe)

Cinema Cafe celebrates 40 years of more than movies in Hampton Roads

April 13, 2026 at 12:04 p.m.

To celebrate the 40-year anniversary, Cinema Cafe planned a slate of promotions and surprises.

Students walk past Communication Tower on the campus of Norfolk State University. (Staff/File)

Business Notes: NSU raises $147M; McDonald’s to open in Virginia Beach

April 13, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.

Norfolk State University's Now Is Our Time campaign raised $147 million, exceeding its original $90...

The 25th annual ForKids Art Auction, held on March 21 at the Norfolk Waterside Marriott, raised a milestone $2.3 million to support children and families experiencing homelessness. (ForKids)

Hampton Roads ForKids fundraiser reaches $2M threshold, 100 times its first

April 13, 2026 at 8:01 a.m.

"This community stepped up at a moment when families in Hampton Roads are really struggling,"...

Boddie-Noell Enterprises, the largest family-owned Hardee’s franchisee in the United States, plans to try a new restaurant concept called Biscuits & Bird in the former Hardee's location in Virginia Beach. (Lee Belote/For Inside Business)

Hardee’s franchisee plans to open new Biscuits & Bird pilot in Virginia Beach

April 11, 2026 at 1:43 p.m.

The former Hardee’s site in front of Home Depot and across the street from Sam’s...

Virginia ABC released a Virginia Spirits 250th Celebration Trio Pack with gin, whiskey and rum in celebration of America's 250th anniversary. (Courtesy/Virginia Spirits Board)

A trio of Virginia spirits, in a limited edition, marks America’s 250th

By Rekaya Gibson

April 11, 2026 at 11:35 a.m.

Norfolk artist Mark Todd designed the box and label, which feature the James River as...

The former Daily Press newspaper building in Newport News is being converted to apartments. As seen on April 7, 2026. (Peter Casey/The Virginian-Pilot)

Former Daily Press building will become apartments in Newport News

April 12, 2026 at 8:10 a.m.

The Monument Cos., a Richmond-based developer, is converting the old newspaper building in Newport News...

A “Leave-A-Penny, Take-A-Penny” container sits on the counter at Atlantis Games & Comics in Norfolk on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. (Kendall Warner/The Virginian-Pilot)

Hampton Roads businesses, banks prepare for scarcity of pennies

April 11, 2026 at 1:43 a.m.

Pennies remain legal tender, but the shortage of 1-cent coins is already creating rounding issues...

Virginia Tourism Corporation has partnered with Devils Backbone Brewing Company to highlight the brewing company's Vienna Lager in a promotional spot called “Virginia is for Lager Lovers.” (Courtesy/Virginia Tourism)

Devils Backbone adds ‘Virginia is for Lager Lovers’ logo to Vienna Lager

By Meredith Lindemon

April 7, 2026 at 7:49 a.m.

There will be a logo designed for the partnership and it will appear on all...

Torrid, the plus-sized women's retailer, as seen at River Park, on Jan. 10, 2024, in Fresno, California. (Eric Paul Zamora/Fresno Bee/TNS)

Plus-size fashion chain Torrid to shutter a third of its stores

By Itzel Luna

April 6, 2026 at 9:16 a.m.

The chain has stores in Lynnhaven Mall in Virginia Beach, Newport News' Jefferson Commons and...

The exterior of the Hampton University Proton Cancer Institute, located in Hampton. (Hampton University Proton Cancer Institute)

Business Notes: Milk & Honey partners with HU Proton Cancer Institute; behavioral health provider opens in Chesapeake

April 6, 2026 at 10:34 p.m.

Elite DNA Behavioral Health, a comprehensive behavioral and mental health care provider, has opened its...

Norfolk-based Harbor Group International plans to acquire an 11‑property multifamily portfolio from Virginia Beach-based AH Realty Trust. (Zoran Mircetic/istock)

Norfolk company to buy $562M portfolio from Virginia Beach’s AH Realty Trust