Fairfax Funds Innovators
By Supervisor Dan Storck
Mount Vernon District
I am pleased to share that Fairfax County recently announced the winners of the first ever round of grant funding for the Fairfax Founders Fund, one of many County programs designed to help businesses grow in Fairfax County. The five companies chosen represent a group of visionary startups that exemplify local innovation and entrepreneurship. Winners were selected for the potential of their innovative tech products and demonstrated business growth opportunities. Each business will receive up to $50,000 that will provide a significant boost to their ventures and showcase the region's dynamic and thriving startup ecosystem. As a serial entrepreneur, I strongly supported this program when it came to the Board for consideration and equally strongly support the need to develop and grow “Made in Fairfax” companies. I am proud that one of the five chosen is in the Mount Vernon Woods area, Anapact – The Smart Headgear company makes headgear for boxers with sensors to help protect against head injuries.
The Fairfax Founders Fund is a Fairfax County Department of Economic Initiatives program designed to support early-stage, high-growth startups. The program provides grants and technical assistance to product and technology-based companies on the path to seeking institutional investments or awards and expanding their customer base. The primary objectives of the fund are to stimulate economic development, connect startups with local resources and partnerships, and promote economic mobility by ensuring that early-stage capital is accessible to entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds.
Applications for the second round of funding are now open through Jan. 8. Learn more about eligibility requirements, how the program works and how to apply here: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/economic-initiatives/fairfax-founders-fund. Read more about the winners here: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/economic-initiatives/fairfax-founders-fund-inaugural-cohort-winners.
Did you know the County provides support and funding opportunities for local small businesses and entrepreneurs? From BizEx that provides a step-by-step guide to starting your own business, to having our own Economic Development Support Fund that directs investments into three kinds of projects: capital development projects, purchasing real estate and programming support for economic development activities identified in the Economic Success Plan, the County is here to help you and your business. Learn about these and many more business support programs here: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/economic-initiatives/about-us.