Virginia might not be the first place you think of for startups, but it’s actually home to a lot of fresh, exciting businesses that are making big moves. The state has a skilled workforce, it’s close to Washington, D.C., and it’s got a business-friendly environment. Because of this, Virginia has become a surprising place for innovation. From companies focused on cybersecurity to ones making plant-based foods, let’s look at some of the coolest startups in Virginia and how they’re making a difference.
Expel – Keeping Cybersecurity Strong
Cybersecurity is a huge deal these days, with cyber threats constantly on the rise. Expel, a company in Herndon, Virginia, is leading the way in this field. Founded in 2016, they help businesses keep their data safe using smart technology like AI. Expel’s services make it easier for companies to spot and respond to threats before they cause harm.
Impact: Expel has created hundreds of jobs in cybersecurity, and their affordable, flexible services mean even small businesses can stay protected. Thanks to Expel, Virginia is becoming known as a place for cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.
DroneUp – Taking Drones to the Next Level
Drones aren’t just for fun anymore they’re being used in many industries, from farming to construction. DroneUp, based in Virginia Beach, provides delivery, inspection, and data collection services with drones. They even teamed up with Walmart to test drone deliveries, a major step toward making drone deliveries a normal part of shopping.
Impact: DroneUp has created jobs in Virginia and pushed the state to the front of the drone industry. Their partnership with Walmart could inspire other big companies to explore faster, eco-friendly drone delivery.
ID.me – Making Online Security Easier
With more of our lives happening online, proving who we are is becoming more important. ID.me, based in McLean, Virginia, is all about secure digital identity. Their platform helps people verify who they are when they need to access services like healthcare or government benefits.
Impact: During the COVID-19 pandemic, ID.me helped prevent fraud and made sure people got their benefits quickly. They’ve put Virginia on the map for digital security and identity verification.
Aledade – Helping Independent Doctors Thrive
Running a small medical practice can be tough, but Aledade, based in Arlington, Virginia, is working to make it easier. They provide tech tools to help doctors better manage patient care while reducing costs. This means that independent doctors can focus more on their patients, not on paperwork.
Impact: Aledade’s work is helping doctors stay independent while improving healthcare in their communities. They’re making a big difference, especially for underserved areas, by making healthcare more affordable and accessible.
Swiftrise – Creating Earth-Friendly Food
As people become more eco-conscious, there’s more demand for sustainable food options. Swiftrise, based in Richmond, is making plant-based proteins that are both tasty and good for the planet. They’re helping to lower the environmental impact of food production.
Impact: Swiftrise is helping make Virginia a leader in sustainable food. They support local farmers and create jobs in green agriculture, making it a win for the environment and the economy.
Virgo Technologies – Making Space Data Accessible
Space exploration sounds out of reach, but Virgo Technologies in Alexandria, Virginia, is using satellite data to help industries like agriculture and environmental monitoring. Their data can predict weather patterns and monitor environmental changes, which can help in fields like farming and disaster response.
Impact: Virgo Technologies is making space data useful for everyday industries, proving that Virginia is part of the space economy too. They’re helping people make smarter decisions using real-time data.
One Degree Solar Bringing Solar Power to Everyone
For people in remote areas, reliable electricity can be hard to get. One Degree Solar, a Virginia-based startup, creates portable solar power solutions. Their products are designed to provide clean, affordable energy to people without access to regular electricity.
Impact: By providing renewable energy, One Degree Solar is helping to improve lives in underserved areas around the world. They’re creating a positive impact on education, healthcare, and economic growth all from right here in Virginia.
Hatch Helping New Businesses Take Off
Hatch, an incubator in Norfolk, supports new startups by providing resources, mentorship, and funding. Since it started in 2012, Hatch has helped many startups get off the ground and grow into successful businesses.
Impact: By helping new businesses, Hatch is creating jobs and building a strong community of entrepreneurs in Virginia. The startups they support go on to create jobs and inspire other future business owners.
Final Thoughts
Virginia’s startup scene is buzzing, thanks to a diverse mix of companies solving real-world problems in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and sustainability. These businesses are making life better for people, creating jobs, and showing that Virginia has a lot to offer when it comes to tech and innovation. Their success shows young entrepreneurs everywhere that with a bit of determination, they too can make a big impact right from their own backyard.
