Hoping to fill a gap in on-demand ride hailing services, a group that includes two local Uber drivers is rolling out a complementary app that lets users reserve rides ahead of time and handpick drivers.
Startups
Cyclists open bike shop, market in Forest Hill
A trio of cyclists recently opened a shop in Forest Hill — but alongside bikes and gears, they decided to throw in a dash of a small neighborhood market.
Hypnotist unveils brain-teasing escape room
Zombies, ticking bombs and art thieves — these are the stories a local magician and hypnotist is using to build his puzzle-filled escape room business that opened last month.
The 2015 evolution of Richmond’s startups
This year saw several local companies champion the startup competition circuit, while brick-and-mortar newcomers set up shop and Hopewell laid the groundwork for its own small business hub.
New year, new startup for entrepreneur Nash
Linda Nash isn’t stopping with a Markel deal and her own consulting firm. Next month she plans to debut a healthcare recruiting spin-off and roll out another concierge medicine startup.
Church Hill startup program returns with new winners
With help from Capital One and Bon Secours, a dozen East End entrepreneurs received an extra funding boost from an annual program, including restaurants, retailers, a dry cleaner, and wedding planner.
Charity donation startup sold to benefits firm
A company that helped people manage their charitable donations has been sold to another firm, which will weave its services into the employee benefits business.
New pitch contest giving startups the stage
Aiming for young companies without any previous competition wins, a longtime business mentorship program is accepting applications for its first pitch contest that will give out cash and free office space.
Landscapers take startup full-time
After two years of growth for their Glen Allen lawn care company, two entrepreneurs are hoping business will bloom with them both on the job full-time.
Entrepreneurs – and investors – pitch ideas at Lighthouse Labs
The six companies participating in the annual Lighthouse Labs mentorship program made their pitches last night, and two investors also revealed plans to make finding funding easier for startups.