Project Accelerate
Building Stronger Businesses, One Connection at a Time.
Project Accelerate sparks instant connections between small business needs and the people with the skills to solve them.
Got a challenge? Meet your solution—fast. Project Accelerate is the go-to hub where small business owners post their needs and connect instantly with students, professionals, and mentors ready to jump in. Whether it’s fresh ideas, expert guidance, or hands-on help, our platform matches the right talent to the right opportunity in real time. Every connection fuels growth, builds experience, and drives communities forward. This isn’t just networking—it’s problem-solving at full speed.
BUSINESS OWNERS
Got a project you’ve been putting off?
Don’t go it alone—Project Accelerate is here to help. We make it simple for small business owners to connect with skilled professionals, students, and mentors who are ready to jump in.
How it works:
- Post the job or challenge you’re facing.
- Our network matches you with the right talent to get it done.
- Choose the arrangement that works for you—paid or pro bono.
From marketing to operations, creative projects to financial advice, your next big win could be just one connection away.
Best of all:
- Posting is free.
- You control the scope, budget, and timeline.
- You get the support you need—fast.
FRACTIONAL &
INDUSTRY EXPERTS
Your expertise can make a real difference.
Project Accelerate connects industry professionals like you with small business owners who need targeted guidance, problem-solving, and fresh ideas.
Here’s how it works:
- Create a profile showcasing your skills, experience, and expertise.
- Get matched with entrepreneurs who are facing challenges you’re uniquely equipped to solve.
- Choose the level of involvement—anything from a quick consultation to a full project.
Why participate?
- Help businesses grow and strengthen local economies.
- Share your knowledge while building your own professional network.
- Contribute to thriving communities across Virginia.
- Expand your professional impact and visibility.
Whether you have an hour to advise or the time to take on a larger role, your contribution matters—and could be the turning point for a business in need.
MENTORS
Your experience is invaluable—and it might be exactly what a small business owner needs to take the next step.
Project Accelerate invites mentors to share their wisdom, insights, and hard-earned lessons by creating a profile on our platform.
Here’s how it works:
- Post your background, achievements, and areas of expertise.
- Get matched with entrepreneurs facing challenges you’ve already navigated.
- Offer guidance in the form of strategic advice, industry insights, or encouragement during critical decisions.
Why become a mentor?
- Help shorten the learning curve for small business owners.
- Spark growth and innovation in emerging companies.
- Strengthen the business community through shared knowledge.
- Leave a lasting impact by paying forward your expertise.
Whether it’s a single conversation or an ongoing mentorship, your guidance can inspire confidence, accelerate progress, and help entrepreneurs thrive.
EDUCATORS & STUDENTS
Your knowledge has the power to create real-world impact.
Project Accelerate connects university educators and students with small business owners who can benefit from your research, innovative ideas, and specialized skills.
Here’s how it works:
- Create a profile highlighting your academic expertise and skills.
- Apply classroom learning to real business challenges.
- Collaborate with entrepreneurs on projects where your insights can make a difference.
Why get involved?
- Help local businesses solve problems and grow.
- Gain hands-on experience applying theory to practice.
- Test your ideas in a live business environment.
- Expand your professional network and strengthen your resume.
Whether you’re sharing research, contributing to a project, or innovating new solutions, your involvement benefits both the business community and your future career.