The Shadow
ROANOKE, Va. (VR) – The 11th Annual Gauntlet Awards Ceremony will be held on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Berglund Center, recognizing the bold spirit of entrepreneurship across Southwest Virginia.
The Gauntlet’s unique approach to community and business development, provides powerful programming, leverages resources and engages the larger entrepreneurial ecosystem of support agencies. This year, 140 entrepreneurs participated in the Gauntlet’s intensive 10-week training program—the region’s largest business development initiative. Of those, 47 entrepreneurs advanced to the final competition phase and will showcase their businesses during the awards ceremony. In addition, mentors, program sponsors and Gauntlet alumni will be recognized for their commitment of time, talent and treasure for the Gauntlet, Virginia’s Largest Business Program and Competition.
The evening will feature a dynamic keynote address by Natalie Hodge, founder of Rudy’s Girl Media, and an exciting panel discussion with successful local entrepreneurs sharing insights, inspiration, and lessons from their journeys. The program will culminate in the announcement of the 2025 Gauntlet Award winners, celebrating innovative business concepts and regional impact.
“The Gauntlet continues to be a launchpad for passionate innovators who are building businesses that strengthen our communities,” said Annette Patterson, President, The Advancement Foundation. “We’re thrilled to honor their accomplishments and the communities that eagerly support their growth.”
The event is free and open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to join in celebrating the future of entrepreneurship in our region.
For more information about The Gauntlet program, visit www.TheAdvancementFoundation.org.
