FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hampton Roads SBDC and Portsmouth Partnership Announce Strategic Collaboration to Strengthen Small Business Growth

Portsmouth, VA — The Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (SBDC) and Portsmouth Partnership announced a new strategic collaboration aimed at accelerating economic development through the growth and expansion of small businesses. As part of this initiative, the organizations also welcome Amber Kostka as Business Advisor, further enhancing their capacity to support entrepreneurs and the regional business community.

To celebrate this collaboration and Kostka’s new role, a ribbon-cutting ceremony for her new office at Bloom Coworking at 739 High St, Portsmouth will take place on Wednesday, July 8, at 3 p.m. followed by a reception. Community members, partners, and stakeholders are invited to attend and celebrate this exciting milestone.

The Hampton Roads SBDC-Portsmouth Partnership joint effort marks a significant advancement in regional collaboration by aligning resources and expertise to better serve small businesses across Hampton Roads. Together, the two organizations will expand access to critical small business services, including capital readiness, market opportunities, and operational support.

The collaboration is expected to drive job creation and retention while strengthening the overall small business ecosystem.

As an owner of The Stockpot Restaurant, Kostka has developed deep expertise in restaurant management and operations and brings valuable entrepreneurial experience to her new role with SBDC. As Business Advisor, she will lead the Seed Capital Program and support several other initiatives at Bloom Coworking. She will also provide one-on-one mentoring and business advising to entrepreneurs throughout the region, helping retail and restaurant businesses strengthen their operations, access capital, and prepare for growth into brick-and-mortar locations.

“We are excited to formalize our collaboration with the Portsmouth Partnership and to welcome Amber Kostka to our team,” said Jolie Spiers, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads SBDC. “Together, these efforts enhance our ability to serve small businesses and advance our mission with greater impact, expertise, and collaboration.”

“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to driving meaningful economic impact and long-term success,” said Michelle Wren, Executive Director of Portsmouth Partnership. “We look forward to working closely with the Hampton Roads SBDC and supporting the important work ahead.”

For the Portsmouth Partnership, this announcement marks an important moment of growth and momentum. The combination of a new strategic partnership and the addition of experienced
talent reflects the organization’s dedication to innovation, collaboration, and continued excellence in small business growth.

For more information, please contact: Jolie R. Spiers Executive Director
Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center jspiers@hrchamber.com
(757) 373-7102