For some business owners affected by the coronavirus recession, it may be time to change up their business models.
The Prince William County Economic Development Department is partnering with similar agencies in the region to provide a three-part webinar series that will examine the new normal for business owners, titled “Beyond COVID-19: NOVA Business Resiliency Webinars.”
The series will discuss strategies for finding emergency funding, shoring up the supply chain, to turning things around and growing again in a post-pandemic economy.
Phase 1: COVID-19 Business Survival Toolkit
—-In-Depth Funding & Financing
–Staffing: What’s Best for My Business, What’s Best for My People?
–Keeping My Customers and Finding New Ones in This Climate
–New Business Models – Going Digital: What Does it Mean for My Business?Phase 2: The New Normal
–Supply Chain Management
–Marketing & Business Development Through COVID-19
–IT: Cost or Investment?Phase 3:
–Growth Funding
–Partnering Across the Business Community
–Strategic Planning in a Digital World
Prince William County Economic Development Director Christina Winn says it’s essential for business owners to begin thinking about how to reach new customers online:
“I think the most important is, is really to think about who their customers are and how are those customers getting their product or seeking their product. I’m not sure the stat of how many of Prince William County businesses are not online, or do not have an e-commerce presence. But, one of the first pieces is really think about if, you don’t have that presence and you know, we need to really get you online so you’re start to market and be able to offer those services.”
“But the other thing is to think about how in this new normal and how things are changing is where are those opportunities exist. We were talking earlier that many times some of the greatest innovations and the best ideas come out of crisis because, all of a sudden, you see where this need is not being filled.”
The first in the webinar series, Business Survival Toolkit, will be held today at 2 p.m. on Zoom. There’s no charge to attend.
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In a pivotal discussion during the January 21, 2025, meeting, the Prince William Board of County Supervisors approved funding measures for a new fire station in the Brentsville District, addressing a pressing need for expanded emergency services. The debate revolved around whether to utilize proffer funds—developer-contributed resources earmarked for public infrastructure—or tap into the county’s fire levy fund.
Brentsville District Supervisor Tom Gordy initiated an amendment to the funding resolution, proposing the use of Brentsville District fire proffers “to the greatest extent possible” before considering the fire levy fund. With $3 million available in Brentsville fire proffers, Gordy emphasized aligning these restricted funds with their intended purpose: supporting fire and rescue services.
“This approach ensures that we prioritize restricted funds before relying on broader resources like the fire levy,” Gordy explained.
Arctic high pressure continues to grip the region, keeping dangerously cold temperatures and bitter wind chills in place through Thursday morning. The National Weather Service warns that these frigid conditions will persist, with temperatures struggling to climb above freezing during the day and plummeting overnight.
Temperatures on Wednesday will remain well below freezing, with daytime highs only reaching the teens and lower 20s. Wind chills will remain a significant concern, with values ranging from -10°F to -25°F in many areas.
By Wednesday night, winds will ease slightly as high pressure drifts overhead, but temperatures will still drop to the single digits in many areas, with subzero readings likely in higher elevations.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.