Close

Monthly Archives: January 2017

Challenger Spotlight: Cloyd Gaffney, Jr., C&C Seafood

They say that entrepreneurship is a family affair, and that’s the case for Cloyd Gaffney, Jr.  The UVa-Wise student started C&C Seafood with his father on April 26, 2009. The seasonal retail operation is based in South Carolina. “I’ve made a lot of connections and learned a lot,” says Cloyd. […]

Read More

Challenger Spotlight: James Long, The Vault Sleeve

For many, Football is a big part of growing up in Southwest Virginia, and James Long thinks the region might be a place for his business to mature as well. The UVa-Wise student has a plan to develop The Vault Sleeve, an original custom made football sleeve that is designed […]

Read More

Challenger Spotlight: Sandra Lima Argo, LA International Education

Sandra Lima Argo has feet on two continents.  Her business, LA International Education, provides professional and personal enrichment exchanges between Southwest Virginia and Brazil. “Traveling to an unknown place can be extremely rewarding,” says Sandra, “especially if the trip is structured well. And our region has a great deal to […]

Read More

Challenger Spotlight: Terri Anne Funk, Clinch River Adventures

Terri Anne Funk feels fortunate to be able to pursue a business vision built upon something she always loved to do: float the Clinch River.  “Growing up in St. Paul, the river is just part of your life,” says Terri. “With Clinch River Adventures, we hope to share that experience—making […]

Read More

Challenger Spotlight: Jeffery Perry, Perry’s Energy Audit

Technology changes bring entrepreneurial opportunities, and Jeffery Perry is developing a business to help homeowners use technolgy to increase effiency and reduce costs.  “By performing a blower test,” says Perry, “our business, Perry’s Energy Audit, will help customers identify opportunities to reduce energy use and increase savings.” With substantial construction and […]

Read More

Challenger Spotlight: Jeff Hunt, Hunt’s Garage

“A business in a small community can be an important thing,” says Jeff Hunt. Jeff bought a building in the Scott County town of Dungannon, Virginia (pop. 250), where he grew up.  For years he held a full time job and operated his welding shop in the prominently located structure.  Once […]

Read More

Challenger Spotlight: Jack Flanary, North 40 Airsoft

Jack Flanary understands the importance of connecting people in a community. His business, run with Alma Underwood Flanary, depends upon a network of competitive and team oriented people. “If we can provide a quality experience and facilitate the network of people who enjoy it, our business will succeed,” says Jack. […]

Read More

Introducing the 2013 Challengers

The inaugural mySWVAopportunity Entrepreneur Challenge is fast coming to a close.  There are currently 11 businesses and emerging entrepreneurs competing for the top prize fo $10,000 to invest in their business.  And there are 11 groups and individuals having fun, building skills, and creating strong relationships.  We’re very excited about […]

Read More