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The spirit of entrepreneurship was on full display Friday, May 2, as Franklin Southampton Economic Development Inc. (FSEDI) and the Franklin-Southampton Area (FSA) Chamber of Commerce joined forces to host a special event marking National Small Business Appreciation Week, which is held nationally from May 4-10. 

An FSEDI news release noted that the celebratory event, held at the Franklin Business Center with about 50 community leaders in attendance, welcomed local business owners, elected officials and community partners for a morning of networking, recognition and inspiration.

“Small business is the lifeblood and identity of our local economy,” FSEDI President and CEO Karl Heck said at the event. “With neighboring areas having larger companies such as Boar’s Head, Keurig Green Mountain, and Georgia-Pacific announce recent plant closings that also affect our residents, starting and growing small businesses in Franklin Southampton is one way we can diversify and expand our employment base.”

The May 2 special event began with a lively networking breakfast and reception, featuring delicious catering by Nuhaus Cuisine LLC. The release noted that attendees enjoyed the opportunity to connect, share ideas and celebrate the vital role small businesses play in the region’s economy.

A highlight of the morning was the keynote address from Bryan K. Stephens, president and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber. Stephens addressed the audience regarding the enduring value and impact of small businesses, leveraging your connections and supporting growth.

Other speakers at the event were Marshall Rabil, of Hubbard Peanut Company and the FSEDI Board; Madison Berryman, executive director of the FSA Chamber; Heck; Lisha Wolfe, from the Camp Community College Workforce Development Center; and Jimmy Strozier, owner of Highground Services, the 2025 Western Hampton Roads Business of the Year. 

Keeya Young, of Royale Sambal, and Samantha Urquhart, of The Lighthouse Project, 2025 STARTUP winners, were also introduced.

“The Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce and FSEDI are committed to the development of partnerships with local businesses throughout Franklin Southampton and their essential role in our growth and development,” officials stated in the release. “Their ongoing support and dedication help foster a thriving environment for entrepreneurs and established businesses.” 

This is the second year that FSEDI and the FSA Chamber have partnered on this event, which has returned to the area since a pause brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.