Starting February 2025, the City of Waynesboro is launching Grow Waynesboro Wednesdays, a new pilot program designed to provide free mentoring and resources to entrepreneurs every Wednesday afternoon. The “Grow” in Grow Waynesboro stands for Guidance, Resources, Opportunities, and Work, and we’re thrilled to partner with some outstanding organizations to support the growth of Waynesboro’s small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Here’s how it works:

  • First, Third, and Fourth Wednesdays: From noon to 4 p.m., a service provider or mentor will hold open office hours at the Waynesboro Economic Development & Tourism Office (301 W Main Street). No appointments are required, but you’re welcome to notify us in advance and share any specific questions you’d like help with by emailing staff@WaynesboroBusiness.com.
  • Second Wednesday of Each Month: Join us for special presentations and technical services tailored to meet the needs of local entrepreneurs.

February 2025 schedule:

February 5, 2025 (1st Wednesday): Shasta Weeks, Director of Membership, Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce
February 12, 2025 (2nd Wednesday): Kelli Weaver, Destination Development Manager, Virginia Tourism Corporation
****DUE TO WEATHER, THE OPEN OFFICE HOURS WITH VTC ON 2/12 WILL BE VIRTUAL, E-MAIL STAFF@WAYNESBOROBUSINESS.COM FOR ZOOM LINK! 
February 19, 2025: (3rd Wednesday): Diane McCarthy, Business Advisor, Small Business Development Center
February 26, 2025 (4th Wednesday):  Ross Gulotta, SCORE Mentor and Co-Chapter Chair, Central Virginia SCORE

 

More about our providers & mentors:

Shasta Weeks, Membership Director, GARCC

Shasta Weeks, a Waynesboro native, manages membership at GARCC, helping businesses connect, grow, and thrive. From educational workshops to advocacy, she can guide you through membership options tailored to your needs. Have questions about joining, updating your directory listing, or boosting your business? Shasta’s your go-to resource!

Kelli Weaver, Destination Development Manager, VTC

Kelli supports tourism development in our region, offering strategic planning, product guidance, and marketing help. Need to list your tourism business on Virginia’s website or apply for a VTC grant? Bounce ideas off Kelli and get expert advice to boost your visibility.

Diane McCarthy, Business Advisor, SBDC

Diane brings years of experience in marketing, retail, and business ownership to her role as an SBDC advisor. From restaurants to nonprofits, she helps businesses create sustainable action plans. Her free consulting services are open to start-ups and established businesses alike.

Ross Gulotta, SCORE Mentor

Ross has 40 years of business leadership experience and offers free mentoring through SCORE. He specializes in business planning, operations, and financial literacy. Whether you’re starting or scaling, Ross is ready to help with tailored advice to fit your goals.

 

We’re excited to kick off this initiative and help Waynesboro’s businesses thrive. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with mentors and resources that can help take your business to the next level!