Small Business

Whether you're looking to expand your network, create valuable partnerships, or connect with motivated local professionals, this is the place to be. Prepare a short presentation to showcase your business and a lot of business cards! **📍 Every Wednesday at 7:15 AM** **1604 Spring Hill Road, 2nd Floor, Vienna, VA** Visitors and professionals are always welcome. Come join us and experience the power of referral networking.

Organize your schedule with our **Google Basics: Calendar & Tasks** in-person event! Spaces are limited. Please register in advance! [https://luma.com/466w3g7w?utm_source=meetup](https://luma.com/466w3g7w?utm_source=meetup)

The BNI Capital Business Alliance is a business and professional networking organization for all industry leaders. We are one of the top BNI groups in the region, focused on building business relationships and friendships that lead to growing each others business. We meet every Wednesday morning to build relationships, showcase our services, and meet new people! We welcome all visitors who are looking to expand their referral networks and grow their business. There is no fee for visiting our lite fare breakfast meeting and if your business category is open in our chapter you can learn more about how to become a member and join us every week! We are very active outside of our Wednesday morning meetings as well! We host member-only events regularly and are always out and about networking at other events. Due to COVID-19 circumstances our meetings are currently being held virtually through a Virtual Zoom Meeting from 7:30 - 9:00 am. A link to the meeting will be sent to you once you register as Attending on Meetup. We can't wait to meet you! Be prepared to tell us all about your business!

Join us for an evening of networking and insightful discussions at our Cigars & Startups Networking Night, hosted by Cigars and Startups DC. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a startup enthusiast, or a tech aficionado, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. We'll have premium cigars, drinks and talk about the exciting topics of entrepreneurship, securing venture capital funding, and the intersection of technology startups and the cigar industry. Sip on fine drinks, enjoy premium cigars, and engage in lively conversations with fellow guests who share your passion for entrepreneurship and innovation. Whether you're looking to expand your professional network, seek investment opportunities, or simply unwind after a long day, this event promises to offer a unique blend of business insights and leisure. Don't miss out on this exclusive chance to mingle with the brightest minds in the startup ecosystem while enjoying the finer things in life. Thanks to our sponsors @Hunter from Next.Law, @Richard from Ashira Finanical and @Andrew from Zccounting.com Note: Because my company (Zccounting) is a bookkeeping and accounting firm, not a licensed tobacco dealer I will not be selling cigars and your ticket only includes "entry" to the VIP lounge and event, however, I'm super generous and will share as many cigars as you can smoke at the event from my personal collection for no fee whatsoever!

The way organizations build teams and the way professionals build careers is changing. Fractional, part-time, and project-based work is no longer a stopgap. It's becoming a deliberate strategy on both sides of the work equation; the "Portfolio Career" of the future is happening now. In this session, Stephanie Ranno draws on her work connecting experienced professionals with employers who are rethinking how they access talent. Whether you're a content strategist navigating a tough market and piecing together flexible engagements or an organization weighing whether a fractional hire could move the needle for a specific project, this session offers practical perspectives for both. We'll explore what's driving the shift toward flexible work arrangements, how to position yourself or structure your team to make the most of it, and what it actually takes to make fractional and part-time roles work well for everyone involved. **About Stephanie** Stephanie brings more than 20 years of experience in staffing and recruiting, helping organizations of all sizes and in all industries build high-performing teams. She has worked with clients in financial services, associations and nonprofits, government consulting, and professional services to connect them with exceptional talent. As Director of Growth, Stephanie partners with FlexProfessionals DC and Boston teams to expand the firm’s mid-market presence and bring our services to new metro areas. She focuses on opening new pathways for businesses to access flexible, top-tier talent in accounting, finance, HR, administration, operations, and marketing. Stephanie is committed to showing employers how flexible work models can give organizations a competitive edge while creating meaningful career opportunities for professionals. Beyond her client work, Stephanie is a frequent speaker and writer on topics including workforce trends, talent acquisition, neurodiversity, and inclusion. Inspired by her own family, she has a special interest in advancing neurodiversity in the workplace and creating a future of meaningful work for all.

Do you like having a reason to get up and get out the door in the morning? How about regular events to make part of your routine? If that's you, join us on Wednesday mornings! Drop in for as long as you like during the session, just leave a comment in the event here if you plan to arrive more than an hour after the start time. And please update your RSVP if you can no longer attend.

Please join our Advisors and other invited speakers to hear a presentation on investing basics. Topics to be discussed will include an overview of asset allocation, diversification, market volatility, tax efficient accounts, and general income strategies. Refreshments and Hors D’oeuvres will be served. Seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-serve basis. To reserve your spot, please RSVP today to your financial advisor. We look forward to seeing you!

Founder Institute Washington DC is partnering with Washington Network Group - WNG for this great startup event on Customer Discovery. At this event, we will discuss how to start your entrepreneurship journey. Should you start building the product first - or test the market with potential real customers? We will delve into Steve Blank's customer discovery process with Penn West Accelerator Director and leading mentors. **❯❯ Learn more about this great event and** **REGISTER at [https://luma.com/c4rd2brd](https://luma.com/c4rd2brd)** Washington Network Group (WNG) The Washington Network Group (WNG) is a thriving community of cross-industry professionals in the DC metro area who believe in the power of connection. WNG is an entirely volunteer-led and driven non-profit supported through membership fees, sponsorships and other private donations. With decades of experience bringing people together, we help members grow their networks, find new opportunities, and support each other in advancing their careers.

Network with an average of 60+ business professionals, all attendees get an opportunity to give a 30 second elevator pitch, enjoy a light breakfast, 10 minute educational presentation on topics that change weekly, and enjoy networking before and after the meet up.

**Pitch your startup directly to leading venture capital investors and** **Join Primewise Founders Club's exclusive networking session where visionary entrepreneurs connect, collaborate and create magic together.** **Primewise Founders Club**, in collaboration with **a leading Venture Capital Firm**, presents an exclusive VC Connect Session – a high-impact opportunity for early-stage founders to pitch directly to active venture capital investors. This closed-door virtual event brings together selected founders and investors in a focused setting designed to foster meaningful connections, investor feedback, and potential funding opportunities across USA. If you’re building a scalable technology venture or an innovative business model, this is your chance to showcase your vision to leading investors and industry experts. Register Now: [https://thepfclub.com/neusa/] [Filling the form is a must. If you are looking to apply for investor connect, click "Raise Investment" on the "what are you hoping to gain from the event" and our team will reach out to you.] **What Makes This Special:** * Pitch directly to VC: Pitch your startup directly to VC and investors * Strategic partnerships: Collaborate with fellow founders on new ventures. * Scaling discussions: Exchange ideas on growth and market expansion. * Investment opportunities: Be the first to discover promising startups. * Expand your influence while contributing to the startup ecosystem. * A supportive community: Celebrate wins and overcome challenges together. **Networking event:** **Date**: 13th June, 2026 **Time**: 12:00 PM (EDT) **Format**: Online **VC event:** Invite-only access - details will be shared for shortlisted founders **Join Our Ecosystem:** 1\. Register for the event 2\. Join our LinkedIn community 3\. Get access to our exclusive WhatsApp group 4\. Connect with fellow members 5\. Start growing together\! Contact Us: Website: [[https://thepfclub.com/](https://thepfclub.com/)] Email: [[event@thepfclub.com](http://event@thepfclub.com/)] LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/company/primewise-founders-club/] To your entrepreneurial success, Primewise Founders Club Team

**Welcome to Flourish Collective meetup!** Join us for a time of **inspiration, connection, and empowerment** with Christian businesswomen who are ready to grow in both their faith and their businesses. We’ll start with a brief introduction and **icebreaker activities** to help you connect with others in the group. Then, we’ll dive into a **motivational session** on **combining faith with business**—how to lead with purpose, integrity, and impact in today’s world. Whether you’re just starting your business journey or are a seasoned entrepreneur, you’ll leave feeling encouraged and equipped to take your next steps! We'll also spend time in **prayer** and discussing how we can support each other’s businesses and walk together in faith. *** ### **Agenda:** * **10:00 AM - 10:30 AM** – Welcome & Introductions * **10:30 AM - 11:00 AM** – Icebreaker Activities (get to know each other) * **11:00 AM - 11:30 AM** – **Inspiring Talk** on Integrating Faith and Business * **11:30 AM - 12:00 PM** – Prayer & Business Support Circle (share your challenges & successes) *** ### **Why You Should Attend:** * **Connect** with like-minded Christian businesswomen who share your passion for success and purpose. * **Learn** how to integrate your faith into your business for greater impact and fulfillment. * **Grow** spiritually and professionally as we build a supportive community together. *** ### **What to Bring:** * An **open heart** and willingness to connect. * Your **business ideas, questions, or challenges** you want to discuss with the group. * A **positive attitude** ready to grow and inspire others! ### **Blessings!** **Helen Ogbu, CPA**

**🐺🤝🇺🇸💼Welcome to Team Network MoCo Home Team—a high-energy, virtual zoom networking experience built for professionals, entrepreneurs, and Main Street business owners who believe that strong local relationships create outsized business results. Rooted in Montgomery County, the MoCo Home Team brings together community-focused leaders who want to grow together, collaborate intentionally, and win as a group.** **This is not random networking or surface-level conversation. MoCo Home Team meetings are intentional, structured, and process-driven, designed to connect you with your true Power Play Partners—the professionals in complementary industries who can drive referrals, open doors, and create long-term opportunity. Every meeting is engineered to turn introductions into momentum.** **At the center of the experience is Team Network’s proprietary Wolf Pack Connect speed-networking system. This fast-paced, highly engaging format ensures that every attendee meets multiple high-quality professionals in a single morning, with clarity around who they serve, how they add value, and where collaboration makes sense. It’s efficient, energizing, and built to respect your time while multiplying your reach.** **Expect a zoom call filled with prepared business owners, trusted advisors, and local leaders who show up ready to contribute—not just collect cards. Expect meaningful conversations, warm introductions that actually happen, and relationships that extend well beyond the meeting room.** **Weekly Professional Business Networking Zoom** (The first week of each month we meet in person. All other weeks we meet on Zoom.) **Thursdays \| 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM \| Zoom** \*\*[https://my8qfgpy.r.us-east-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fus02web.zoom.us%2Fj%2F3013705351/1/0100019cfbcaed04-6986f508-97c2-42f2-9d88-76ee8d97df49-000000/CmSYbg2lHXOspSBize9tjdnV5Y4=469**](https://my8qfgpy.r.us-east-1.awstrack.me/L0/https:%2F%2Fus02web.zoom.us%2Fj%2F3013705351/1/0100019cfbcaed04-6986f508-97c2-42f2-9d88-76ee8d97df49-000000/CmSYbg2lHXOspSBize9tjdnV5Y4=469**) **Passcode: 010192** **Start your Thursday morning with energy, momentum, and meaningful professional connections.** **Each week, Team Network MoCo Home Team join forces with Team Network’s Asburn Growth Hub and Team Network’s Baltimore City Charmers for a dynamic multi-team professional networking Zoom meeting designed to help serious professionals build relationships, exchange introductions, and grow their businesses.** **At Team Network, we believe that business grows through relationships built on Know–Like–Trust. Our meetings are structured, engaging, and focused on helping members become the answer when someone asks: “Do you know a great professional who can help with this?”** **These meetings bring together entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders who understand that:** **• If you have time to breathe, you have time to network** **• Quantity has a quality of its own** **• Consistent weekly engagement creates powerful referral relationships** **During the meeting you will experience:** **✅ Structured professional introductions** **✅ Referral opportunities and warm introductions** **✅ Insight from high-level professionals across industries** **✅ Accountability and business development momentum** **✅ A welcoming but serious environment for professionals who want to grow** **Our multi-team format increases the energy and opportunity in the room by bringing together members from multiple Team Network teams—creating more connections, more introductions, and more opportunity for everyone involved.** **👥 Visitors Welcome** **Professionals who are not yet members of Team Network are invited to attend up to two meetings as a guest. After that, those who wish to continue are encouraged to apply for membership and claim their professional seat.** **Team Network is designed for professionals seeking a long-term marketing and business development cornerstone for their business.** **Make this the year you Join the Team and Run with a Pack! 🐺🤝🇺🇸💪** **Thursdays \| 8:00 AM – 9:30 AM \| Zoom** **Team Network MoCo Home Team** **Bring your energy, bring your introductions, and come ready to grow.**

This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the Green, Sustainable Energy and Environment; to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers in the sector and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of green movement. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign areas for each represented INDUSTRIES AND SPECIALIZATIONS; and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular experience, you would like to exchange. Space is limited and advance ticket purchase is required. PLEASE BRING A BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; YOU CAN FLY SOLO TOO:\) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. \- For bottle/table service email \(info@[merevents.co](http://merevents.co/)m) or text at (202) 368-1878. \- Event is 21\+ ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/3/2/b/600_449154059.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/7/a/600_448335994.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/0/2/6/600_448197382.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/1/7/600_448196599.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/8/e/600_434712942.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/9/a/600_434712954.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/1/d/0/event_14553232.jpeg

This Happy Hour is devoted to professionals in the Green, Sustainable Energy and Environment; to grow, interact, and learn from each other. It is designed to provide a professional environment to meet other professionals to broaden one's career. It is also for those interested in careers in the sector and are studying or intend to enter the dynamic world of green movement. ***GRAB A BOOZE OR A BITE AND YOU WILL BE SET TO ENJOY THE EVENT. YOU NEED TO GET AT LEAST A DRINK OR FOOD:) To get the event going and show support. We know that you like our events. P.S. : We have non-alcoholic drinks as well.*** We have a tiny venue and we hit capacity often and early arrival is suggested. We have the discretion to decide entry. HOW IT WORKS : We will try to assign areas for each represented INDUSTRIES AND SPECIALIZATIONS; and will direct attendees to their respective tables accordingly. All are welcome! However we don't guarantee the availability of a partner in that particular experience, you would like to exchange. Space is limited and advance ticket purchase is required. PLEASE BRING A BUSINESS CARD. Rules to abide : 1. Event is free and 21+ (bring ID). 2. Be respectful to your counterparts and give them a chance to connect with others as well. 3. We all are professionals in one or two fields and be willing to share your knowledge and experience to others and try to accommodate as much as possible. 4. If you don't belong the other person's required specialization, LEAVE THEM ALONE. 5. Rude or aggressive members are removed from the group at an organizers discretion. 6. This is a face-to-face networking event. DO NOT try to arrange an online meeting, by using the comment box or direct message. 7. Most of our members complained about people writing in the comment box. Since it sends notification to all attendees. If you have any questions, send a message to the organizers. Don't write in the comment box. 8. We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via (info@merevents.com). 9. When you get there, we will greet you and take you to your respective group. 10. ***Please be patient for the first 30 minutes, up until we form a group with your respective industry/sector.*** ***AFTER THE SOCIAL, WE HIT THE DANCE FLOOR! BRING YOUR DANCING SHOES, WE WILL DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY!*** \- Come one\, come all; YOU CAN FLY SOLO TOO:\) This is the most friendliest event you have ever attended\! \- Feel free to invite your friends\. They don't necessarily have to be a member \- Celebrate your birthdays or your moments in life with us\. \- For bottle/table service email \(info@[merevents.co](http://merevents.co/)m) or text at (202) 368-1878. \- Event is 21\+ ***N.B. : We have ZERO TOLERANCE for solicitation. We don't allow anyone to run their own agenda at the Event. If you are interested to promote/sponsor/collaborate; contact us via ([info@merevents.com](http://info@merevents.com/)).*** http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/1/d/1/600_443321425.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/3/2/b/600_449154059.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/e/7/a/600_448335994.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/e/0/2/6/600_448197382.jpeg http://photos1.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/d/d/1/7/600_448196599.jpeg http://photos2.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/8/e/600_434712942.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/3/2/9/a/600_434712954.jpeg http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/1/d/0/event_14553232.jpeg

Team Network MARTY on Main Street: June 25th at Pupetella Pizza! 🍕🎉 Meeting + Party = MARTY! Join us for an unforgettable evening of connection, fun, and purpose as Team Network brings together professionals, entrepreneurs, and Main Street business owners — all while supporting a cause that matters deeply. 🗓 Thursday, June 25th 🕕 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM 📍 Pupetella Pizza, Mosaic District, Merrifield, Virginia We’re teaming up with the Eric Monday Foundation to help #TakeDownTheStigma around mental health. This is more than just another networking event — it’s a chance to build real relationships while contributing to meaningful change in our community. What to expect: • Strategic introductions & tactical referrals (the Team Network way!) • Delicious pizza and great conversations • Corn Hole Tournament — bring your competitive spirit! • Live connection, laughter, and “Know, Like, and Trust” in action • Iron sharpens iron — come leave stronger than you arrived Whether you’re a seasoned networker or new to the game, this MARTY is designed for you. One great introduction can change the trajectory of your business and someone’s life. Give and Go! Come ready to give value, make connections, and support the Eric Monday Foundation’s vital mission. learn more: www.ericmondayfoundation.com 📍 Pupetella Pizza – Mosaic District, Merrifield, VA Tag a friend or colleague who needs to be there and let’s make this the best MARTY yet! We are all only one introduction away from a better business and a better life. See you on the 25th!

### **Team Network's** *Fairfax Area Believers* **is an exclusive category networking group that fosters business relationships with those who share a similar faith in God and spiritual values. Naturally, it's** FAB\*\*.\*\* ### **We facilitate meaningful introductions, engaging conversations, and referral partnerships to foster long-term business relationships that will help grow the team and, more importantly, our bottom lines.** ### When & Where: **1st Tuesday of every month. Arrive around 11:45 am, event starts at noon and ends at 1:30 pm. In person at Houlihan's located at the Crown Plaza Dulles Hotel.** ### **On all other Tuesday afternoons, we're on Zoom from 12:00 noon to 1:30 pm.** ### **TEAM NETWORK** ### **Team Network is a 34-year-old networking organization that provides its members with networking opportunities through referrals and personal introductions. We aim to develop new business resources and become more successful through the exchange of valuable information and ideas. Our members are committed to developing trusting, sincere, and mutually beneficial personal and professional relationships that will last a lifetime.**

Whether you're looking to expand your network, create valuable partnerships, or connect with motivated local professionals, this is the place to be. Prepare a short presentation to showcase your business and a lot of business cards! **📍 Every Wednesday at 7:15 AM** **1604 Spring Hill Road, 2nd Floor, Vienna, VA** Visitors and professionals are always welcome. Come join us and experience the power of referral networking.

If you're ready to grow your business through meaningful relationships and high-quality referrals, this event series is for you! We're a community of local small business professionals committed to building prosperity through authentic connection and collaboration. Join us for **genuine, no-pressure networking**—no fees, no pitches, no nonsense. Just good people, good conversations, and a few refreshments to keep things relaxed. Stay for a few minutes or the whole time—whatever works for you. **This event is completely free to attend**, but we kindly ask that you RSVP so we can plan accordingly. We can’t wait to connect with you!

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – Resource Presentation ### Understanding Loudoun's Commercial Real Estate Landscape: Opportunities for Small Business Growth **Presented by Vanessa Simon, Real Estate Intelligence Manager, Loudoun Economic Development** **Wednesday\, June 24 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us for an engaging and informative conversation with **Vanessa Simon**, Real Estate Intelligence Manager for Loudoun Economic Development, as we explore Loudoun County's evolving commercial real estate landscape and what it means for small businesses looking to grow. *** ## About the Presenter Vanessa Simon serves as the **Real Estate Intelligence Manager** for Loudoun Economic Development, where she tracks land and property data, manages the county's commercial property database, and builds relationships with developers, brokers, and industry stakeholders throughout Loudoun County. Prior to joining Loudoun Economic Development, Vanessa served as the Director of Operations for a regional residential real estate team serving Virginia, Maryland, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia. Her experience includes operations management, contracts, compliance, negotiations, and market analysis. Vanessa holds a bachelor's degree in Biology and Business from Virginia Tech and began her professional career in technical sales before transitioning into real estate and economic development. *** ## About the Session Whether you're considering your first commercial location, expanding your business footprint, evaluating market opportunities, or simply trying to better understand the local business landscape, this session will provide valuable insight into one of the most important factors influencing business growth: commercial real estate. Vanessa will share current market trends, development activity, available commercial space, and economic development initiatives that are shaping the future of Loudoun County. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how real estate data and economic development resources can support strategic business decisions. *** ## What You'll Learn * Current commercial real estate trends across Loudoun County * Available space and development opportunities * Site selection considerations for growing businesses * Workforce accessibility and location planning * Economic development initiatives supporting business growth * Market insights that can help inform expansion strategies * Resources available through Loudoun Economic Development *** ## Who Should Attend This session is ideal for: * Small business owners * Entrepreneurs considering a physical location * Businesses planning expansion * Retail, restaurant, and service-based businesses * Commercial property owners and investors * Startup founders evaluating growth opportunities * Community and economic development professionals *** ## Why Attend? * Gain practical market intelligence from a county expert * Better understand Loudoun's commercial development landscape * Learn how location decisions impact business growth * Discover resources available to support your business * Ask questions directly to a leader involved in shaping Loudoun's economic future *** ## About 1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **June 24** for coffee, connection, and a valuable conversation about how Loudoun County's commercial real estate market can support your business growth and long-term success. We look forward to seeing you there.

## 1 Million Cups Loudoun – Business Presentation ### Featuring Mary Hartshorn, Founder of Craft Alchemy **Wednesday\, June 10 \| 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM** **Venture X Loudoun** Join us as we welcome **Mary Hartshorn**, founder of **Craft Alchemy**, to the 1 Million Cups Loudoun stage. *** ## About the Presenter Mary Hartshorn is an Army Veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of Craft Alchemy. With a background in communications and logistics and an MBA earned in 2016, Mary spent years developing expertise in e-commerce, digital products, automation systems, Shopify, Etsy, and customer-focused product development while raising her family and navigating military life. In 2024, a personal moment of crisis inspired Mary to create a tool that could help others facing similar challenges. What began as a resource for veterans quickly evolved into a broader solution designed to support individuals and families navigating autism, mental health challenges, caregiving responsibilities, medical conditions, and other situations where communication can become difficult during times of stress. *** ## About the Business Craft Alchemy has developed the **Anchor Tag Support System**, a personalized QR-based support hub that helps individuals quickly access calming tools, emergency contacts, support resources, and personalized information when they need it most. Designed to bridge the gap between physical and digital support, Anchor Tags provide a practical, accessible tool for Veterans, First Responders, autism families, caregivers, mental health advocates, schools, healthcare providers, and organizations focused on community well-being. Rather than creating another app, Craft Alchemy offers a real-world solution that can be carried, accessed quickly, and utilized during moments when support and communication matter most. *** ## Who Mary Is Looking to Hear From Mary would especially value feedback and connections from: * Veteran support organizations * First responder support groups * Mental health professionals and advocates * Autism and disability support organizations * School administrators and special education professionals * Healthcare and caregiving professionals * Nonprofit leaders * Community outreach specialists * Government contracting and partnership advisors * Local leaders focused on community impact initiatives *** ## Current Business Focus & Challenge Craft Alchemy is currently in its early growth and partnership stage. Mary's primary focus is building awareness, establishing strategic partnerships, and expanding opportunities within organizations and community-based networks. She is seeking feedback around: * Building strategic partnerships * Scaling awareness organically * Expanding into schools, nonprofits, and community organizations * Navigating government and organizational opportunities * Growing a mission-driven business without relying heavily on paid advertising She would also appreciate introductions to individuals and organizations connected to veterans, first responders, mental health advocacy, autism support, caregiving, education, and community health initiatives. *** ## Why Attend? * Learn about an innovative solution designed to support people during moments of stress and crisis * Provide valuable feedback to a mission-driven entrepreneur * Connect with community leaders, advocates, and professionals across multiple industries * Be part of a meaningful conversation around accessibility, support, and community impact *** ## About 1 Million Cups 1 Million Cups is a national program that brings entrepreneurs and communities together to learn, connect, and grow through presentations and discussion. Loudoun’s chapter meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays each month. Join us on **June 10** for coffee, connection, and a conversation about creating practical solutions that strengthen individuals, families, and communities. We look forward to seeing you there.

Attendance is $35 (cash, credit/debit card, or ApplePay - paid at the door), which includes water/soda/coffee, bread, choice of a plated lunch entrée, and a dessert assortment. Parking is also validated in the Reston Station garages (3 hours of validation). Join one of Northern Virginia's most successful business networking groups (part of BNI). Open to the public and is typically attended by business owners, business developers, and entrepreneurs. Meetings are typically attended by 30-40 members and guests. \*\*\*PLEASE RSVP here: [REGISTER HERE](https://square.link/u/0WvC6Eir) \*\*\*If you do not register on the BNI website, there may not be a seat available for you.