Norfolk Festevents recently established a new Community Development Program to benefit local small businesses and nonprofit organizations.
This Community Development Program is designed to uphold Festevents’ mission of “creating the most dynamic urban waterfront community in America through a variety of community enrichment programs that focus on empowering small local businesses, engaging local non-profit organizations, and contributing to the education and professional development of aspiring industry professionals.”
Festevents’ Community Development Program, presented by Inman HomeServices, features three initiatives: Small Businesses Kickstart, Charity Fundraising, and Scholarships and Internships.
The Small Business Kickstart will provide Norfolk small businesses an opportunity for growth through startup assistance and marketing exposure. This program will be a launch pad for these new businesses – primarily directed towards local restaurants, food trucks and retail vendors – to expand through the event industry.
The Charity Fundraising Program gives service organizations and charities a chance to raise funds through the sale of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at Festevents events. Over $3,500,000 has been donated directly to local charities, including Kiwanis Club of Norfolk, REACH, Inc. and The Up Center, as a result of programs like this.
The Karen Scherberger Internship & Scholarship Program is seeking applicants that are aspiring industry professionals, currently enrolled in college, who are looking to gain insight into the special events industry through real-world experience. This internship and scholarship program awards $1,000 annually to two interns to help further their education.
For more information, including application deadlines and information, visit Festevents.org.