GENEDGE Alliance Updates & Upcoming Events

The Emerging Business Leaders Program Continues To Support Small Manufacturers In Virginia

We’ve heard from Miller Garrett of Gremlin Works, LLC, a Virginia business that recently graduated from the Emerging Business Leaders Program (EBLP). Now, explore another Commonwealth manufacturing company currently working its way through our process.

The EBLP continues to be a success as small manufacturers in Virginia explore the program’s subsidized consulting solutions, working to identify growth opportunities and tailored solutions.

e-GLAM, Inc. designs and manufactures fashion-forward mobile technology carry cases for the wholesale marketplace and e-commerce. Dedicated to creating high-quality, planet-friendly carry cases, this Virginia-based business blends luxury, freedom, and self-expression.

If you're a manufacturer with less than 20 employees and you're ready to take your business to the next level, the Emerging Business Program is for you.

*The Emerging Business Program is still accepting applications from all Virginia-based manufacturers, regardless of NAICS codes.

Case Study: Gremlin Works, LLC Grows Through The EBLP

Funding Expires Soon For The Virginia Offshore Wind Supplier Development Grant

Gremlin Works, LLC, the first graduate of GENEDGE's Emerging Business Leaders Program, is featured in our latest case study: How The GENEDGE Emerging Business Leaders Program Helped Support the Journey of Gremlin Works, LLC. Learn about this Faber, Virginia-based machine shop and how GENEDGE helped it tackle its biggest challenges.

This grant encourages smaller existing Virginia businesses to enter into the production of goods to support the offshore wind industry in the Commonwealth, as well as the broader U.S. offshore wind market.

Funding will expire at the end of this month. Companies with equipment needs to support offshore wind energy businesses are encouraged apply immediately.

Meet The New GENEDGE Digital Marketing Intern

We are excited to introduce Julianna Sigler as our new Digital Marketing Intern!

A recent graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University with a BFA in Communication Arts, Julianna loves painting and making crafts, as well as reading fantasy books and swimming in her spare time.

As she starts her internship with GENEDGE this summer, Julianna says: "I am excited to bring my ideas to life and help manufacturing businesses across Virginia grow!"

We are so happy to have Julianna onboard and look forward to seeing her skills showcased to Virginia's manufacturing community.

Introducing Six New GENEDGE Alliance Members

Carris Reels: Founded in 1951, Carris Reels is an employee-owned manufacturing company that specializes in the production of wood reels, plastic reels, and recycled reels for wire and cable. Their Virginia location is situated in Fincastle. Email: vtcs@carris.net.

Diatomite Cosmetics, LLC: Diatomite Cosmetics, LLC, founded by Shelita Augustus, is a brand specializing in harnessing the exceptional benefits of diatomaceous earth for personal care product formulation. Diatomite Cosmetics is an advocate for innovation, sustainability, and eco-friendly cosmetic science. Email: info@diatomitecosmetics.com.

Cables Plus USA: A wholesale supplier of data communication connectivity solutions, from fiber optic cable to fiber patch panels and custom-designed cables, Cables Plus USA manufactures and delivers industrial grade products in bulk. Email: sales@cablesplususa.com.

ITL LLC DBA ITL Solutions: ITL Solutions, founded in 2012 and operated by ITL LLC, is headquartered in Hampton, Virginia. The company provides engineering solutions to military and business organizations, as well as sales and service for engineering and emergency services. Email: info@itl-solutions.com.

KOL Surgical LLC: With a team of experienced medical professionals, as well as industry professionals with a high level of product and hospital market expertise, KOL Surgical is dedicated to providing high-quality medical products to the market.

XCCESS, LLC: With a patented wearable A.I. camera that can identify health issues and facilitate live streaming for remote assistance across multiple sectors, XCCESS aims to leverage its technology, data algorithms, and ethical A.I. apps to train future workforces to help sustain people's livelihoods. Email: support@xccess.com.

We would also like to give Alliance members who have been with us the past 18 months the chance to be showcased in the Alliance newsletter! Email us at info@genedge.org and you can be featured in next month's issue.

Southwest Virginia Manufacturers' Expo

On August 29, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Southwest Virginia Manufacturers Expo will bring together companies from across the region for an exciting networking and learning event.

Sponsored by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing, Inc. (SVAM), the expo will allow companies to build their supply chains, showcase their capabilities, attract customers, and discover new resources.

Jeff Shook will be taking part in this year's expo, providing a special presentation on "Planning for Smart Manufacturing."

The Manufacturing NOW In Virginia Podcast Returns

In our latest podcast, we sit down with David Bartlow, Director, Programs & House Accounts, to explore the ways GENEDGE is able to support small manufacturers by helping them improve their cyber defense capabilities.

The complete Season 1 of the Manufacturing NOW in Virginia podcast is available to stream! Check out all episodes now.

Explore the GENEDGE Learning Management System

As a GENEDGE Alliance member, did you know you have access to our online training program at a discount?

Our flexible online learning system provides high-quality educational content accessible on your schedule, utilizing on-demand courses and customized training packages available through the self-paced Learning Management System.

If you don't see exactly what you need, contact us at info@genedge.org and we can customize a training package for your company's needs.

At the bottom of each blog, Alliance members logged into their account can post comments, ask questions, and join the conversation.

Virginia’s Contribution to Textile and Apparel Manufacturing

Breaking Ground: Innovations in Advanced Materials Manufacturing

Proven Strategies for Small Manufacturers to Win Customers

Virginia’s textile and apparel manufacturing roots have woven a rich tapestry of innovation and resilience. This sector has been a cornerstone of the State's economy, evolving through the centuries...

Materials manufacturing is currently reshaping the construction industry. From enhancing durability to improving cost-efficiency, these innovations help set new benchmarks for achievable goals.

This step-by-step guide highlights some of GENEDGE's customer acquisition strategies through each step in the supply chain, particularly geared towards smaller Virginia manufacturers.

Do you have any topics that you would like to see covered in our blog? Email your suggestions to info@genedge.org.

Watch This Ask The Expert Video To Learn About Cost Accounting System Profitability

Steve Holcomb, GENEDGE Project Manager, speaks about ways to make your cost accounting system achieve profitability.

Join The GENEDGE Team

Are you interested in becoming a part of the GENEDGE team?

GENEDGE Small Business Services Manager

The GENEDGE Small Business Services Manager is the primary contact and client services manager for clients served by Small Business Services.

This includes:

• Marketing and promotion of the Alliance membership program
• Nurturing member engagement with Alliance services
• Building strong client relationships to maintain and acquire clients
• Providing feedback on marketing and service delivery
• Providing client management for clients with 20 employees or less

Submit A Candidate For The Alliance Spotlight