The Rockfish Gateway runs from the Blue Ridge Tunnel to the Virginia Metalcrafters Marketplace, with planned streetscape improvements by the Virginia Department of Transportation to enhance the corridor.

Funding and program partners include the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development’s Community Business Launch, Shenandoah Community Capital Fund, First Bank & Trust, and Atlantic Union Bank.

Waynesboro’s Grow Waynesboro initiative is expanding into the Rockfish Gateway corridor along East Main Street, offering competitive startup grants up to $25,000 through a pitch at the end of a seven‑week training series.

Local businesses already in the area include names such as Basic City Beer Co., The Foundry, Common Wealth Crush, Happ Coffee Roasters, Blue Ridge Bucha, Bonobos Bakery, Faded Poppy, The Matriarchs, Bear Creek Outdoor Living, and Sip City Soda Shop, among others.

The deadline to apply for the Rockfish Gateway program is January 12, 2026, with more information available on the Waynesboro business site.

The program begins with a free seven‑week training covering business planning, marketing, financial management, and operations, led by industry professionals and mentors, with classes slated to start in early 2026.

In total, up to $57,500 in startup funds will be awarded to new or expanding businesses by November 2026, including up to $25,000 through the Rockfish Gateway track.

Grow Waynesboro has a proven track record of supporting new businesses and is designed to energize the Rockfish Gateway district by inviting entrepreneurs to help shape Waynesboro’s future.