Chamber Works Business Academy is a signature Fredericksburg Regional Chamber program designed to equip new and growing businesses, and emerging leaders within established companies, with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed for long-term success.
These sessions are part of a 6-month, cohort-based academy featuring expert-led instruction and hands-on learning across key areas of business growth. Chamber Members now have the option to audit individual sessions, with limited availability. Each session offers six spots for Chamber members and one non-member spot available at a higher rate.
Applications for the 2027 Cohort will open in November of 2026
Upcoming Business Academy Sessions
Session 3- Marketing & Brand Growth
Speaker Shawn Sloan of The Media Partners will lead this session focused on how to effectively position and promote your business in a competitive market.
This session explores branding, messaging, digital marketing strategies, and customer engagement. Participants will walk away with practical tools to strengthen their brand presence and attract and retain customers.
Member Cost: $150 per session
Date & Time:
June 24th, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Session 4- People and Performance
Speakers Adam VanderWijst of SimVentions, Patricia Hatcher of Rappahanock Electric Cooperative and Randy Sparks of Kaufman & Canoles, PC will lead this session focused on maximizing your organization’s most valuable asset, your people.
Your people are your greatest asset. This session explores how to build strong teams, enhance leadership effectiveness, and create a culture that drives performance.
Participants will learn practical strategies for hiring, employee engagement, and performance management to support a thriving and productive workplace.
Member Cost: $150 per session
Date & Time:
August 12, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Session 5- Technology & AI
Dr. Rao from the University of Mary Washington will help you discover how technology can streamline your operations and accelerate growth. This session introduces practical tools, including AI solutions, to improve efficiency, marketing, and decision-making.
Participants will gain hands-on insights into leveraging technology to stay competitive in an evolving business landscape.
Member Cost: $150 per session
Date & Time:
October 21, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
