In 2007, partnered with Arlington County’s BizLaunch program, CPRO spearheaded an initiative aimed at strengthening Columbia Pike’s small business community. Since then, the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network has attracted the involvement of nearly 200 local business people along with government and non-profit representatives. This group includes an exciting mix of established companies, home-based businesses, start-ups, and individuals interested to start a venture on Columbia Pike.
On a quarterly basis early morning networking events have been held at the Walter Reed Community Center located just off the Pike at 2909 16th St. S. Attendance at these events has ranged from 60 to 100 people, and they have enjoyed the opportunity to meet other local entrepreneurs, promote their own businesses, and to stay abre
ast of what’s happening in the area. They have also learned about groups that serve the needs of the small business community, offering assistance with business plans, obtaining loans, finding space, obtaining building permits, and marketing their products and services. Pictured at the right, Arlington County Board Chairman Walter Tejada addressed the group, emphasizing the County’s investments in Columbia Pike, and the value and importance of the diverse small business community .
When thousands of new residents come to occupy the many new residential units being built here, this new customer base will offer new opportunities for the Pike’s existing businesses to grow. In addition, several hundred thousand square feet of new ground floor retail space is also coming to Columbia Pike in the next few years, and this creates move-up opportunities for current retail businesses. However, it will also bring competition, some of it from well funded national or regional retail companies. That’s why it’s important that the Pike’s business community plan ahead and take steps now to strengthen the loyalty of their customers and reach out to a wider range of clientele.
Last fall CPRO launched a special advertising intiative that produced full page local newspaper ads featuring Pike area businesses. By buying ad space in bulk and as a group CPRO has been able to offer advertisers very attractive rates. In addition, the prominent Columbia Pike pages have served to remind area residents and office workers about the corridor’s exciting array of shops and restaurants. For more information about advertising opportunities contact CPRO’s Pam Holcomb at 703-892-2776.
Pictured to the left are Michaela Whelan and Patricia Harrison of HSBC Bank who sponsored one of the networking breakfasts and spoke about banking services for small businesses.
The photo below shows (from L to R) Cliff Farberstein of Dimension Creative Promotions; Toa Do, President of the Business Development Assistance Group (BDAG); and Tara Miles, Manager of BizLaunch, all enjoying a Network event.
The next gathering of the Columbia Pike Business Opportunity Network is scheduled for Wednesday, August 20, 2008 8:00 to 9:30 a.m. at the Walter Reed Community Center, 2909 16th St. S., Arlington, VA 22204. Our special guest will be Arlington County’s Commissioner of Revenue, Ingrid Morroy. Thanks to our sponsor,
SIGN*A*RAMA of King St., the event is FREE but registration is required. Please register at
www.arlingtonvirginiausa.com/bizlaunch/eventsor call 703-892-2776 if you would like to attend.
