Your FREE Business Navigator
Our Institute provides free and focused entrepreneurial/business counseling, advisory, and support services to our clients through robust, inclusive, and compliant programs to foster economic development for the Middle Atlantic region.
Our Impact
$250M
Economic Impact
36
Startups Launched
309
Jobs Created
$905k
Business Loans Secured
Your guide to government contracting success. APEX helps small businesses navigate the federal, state, and local procurement process, from registration to proposal development.
OUR Startup Programs
We link local businesses to the vast resources, expertise, and technology at ODU.
I found the VBOC (Veterans Business Outreach Center), so I already set up meetings for when I came back to the States. I was able to meet Don Miller at the VBOC in Norfolk and start to write my business plan and really use these resources to accelerate the start of our business.”
- Bryce Wein /
- Owner /
- Pinup Coffee
The Virginia APEX Accelerator at Old Dominion University’s Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship has played an important role in helping me grow Old Dominion Welding LLC. Through the guidance of my APEX advisor, I learned how to navigate government contracting, complete registrations and certifications, and connect with organizations and networking opportunities that support small businesses.”
- Andre Young /
- Owner/Founder /
- Old Dominion Welding LLC
When Fairwater Associates pursues and wins local, state and federal government contracts, our partners succeed as well.”
- Kip Pagach /
- Principal /
- Fairwater Associates
Free Life exists to prove that some of life’s most memorable moments happen not because alcohol is present, but because genuine human connection is.”
- Christina Kimbrough /
- CEO /
- Free Life, LLC
Culbertson Contracting, LLC, led by Rachael Culbertson, is a successful contracting firm specializing in site preparation. With contracts on Naval Station Norfolk, this small firm was recognized by the SBA as the 2026 Blue Collar Small Business of the Year.”
- Rachael Culbertson /
- President /
- Culbertson Contracting, LLC
Thank you for the work you are doing and for creating opportunities that truly make a difference.”
- Farrah Massenburg /
- President /
- Inclusive Infrastructure Solutions
Meet OUR Counselors
Tameika Serrano
Program Director
The Mustard Seed Women’s Business Center
Joshua Kovitch
Business Counselor / Client Services Administrator
Veterans Business Outreach Center
New to the Institute?
Welcome! The ODU Institute for Innovation & Entrepreneurship helps entrepreneurs and small business owners move forward with confidence. Whether you’re just getting started, expanding your operations, or exploring new opportunities, our team provides the training, mentorship, and connections to help you grow and succeed.
Already a Client?
Welcome back! Log in or reach out to your advisor to schedule your next session, explore new programs, and stay connected with our community of entrepreneurs.
Don’t Know Where to Start?
Every great business begins with a first step. Tell us about your goals, and we’ll connect you with the right advisors, workshops, and programs to help you move forward.