News — Downtown Ashland, Virginia

Amtrak is Your Ticket to Ride Ashland Train Day

Ashland Train Day is rolling into town on April 26 from 11 AM to 4 PM, and there’s no better way to arrive than by train! With up to 50 CSX and Amtrak trains passing through Ashland daily, our town is truly a rail-lover’s paradise. But on this special day, there’s one train experience that stands out above the rest—riding Amtrak Virginia straight into the heart of the celebration.

Skip the Parking Hassle—Ride in Style

The beauty of taking Amtrak to Ashland Train Day is that it drops you off right at the Ashland Train Station, also home to the Ashland Visitors Center. No need to search for parking or trek from a shuttle stop—with a quick step off the train, you’re instantly in the middle of the fun. Downtown Ashland transforms into a lively hub of train-themed entertainment, shopping, and dining, and there’s no better way to start the adventure than by rolling in on the rails.

Comfort, Convenience, and Virginia Favorites

Amtrak Virginia doesn’t just get you there; it makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination. With spacious seating, plenty of storage for strollers and shopping bags, and a relaxing ride that lets you sit back and enjoy the view, it’s a stress-free way to travel. And for those looking to sip on something local, Amtrak’s café cars feature Virginia-made products, including Brewski from Center of the Universe Brewing Company. Supporting local businesses while cruising to Ashland Train Day? That’s a win-win!

Fun for the Whole Family

Traveling with little ones? Amtrak makes it easy with half-price tickets for children and engaging activities to keep them entertained. Unlike a long car ride where restlessness can take over, a train ride is an adventure in itself—watching the scenery pass by, walking through the cars, and enjoying the unique experience of train travel. It’s an exciting prelude to a day filled with locomotive-themed fun in downtown Ashland.

Can’t Take the Train? We’ve Got You Covered

For those who can’t enjoy the luxury of arriving by rail, there are still plenty of ways to get to the event. Free public parking areas with shuttle service will be available starting at 11 AM at the following locations:

  • Green Parking Area (East): Ashland-Junction Shopping Center, 167 Junction Drive

  • Purple Parking Area (East): Ashland Hanover Shopping Center, 251 N. Washington Hwy

  • Red Parking Area (West): First Baptist Church Ashland, 800 Thompson St

Shuttles and trolleys will run throughout the day, with the last pickup at 3:45 PM, ensuring everyone can get to and from the event with ease.

Enter to Win Your Next Train Adventure

If Ashland Train Day has you dreaming of your next rail journey, don’t miss the chance to win one of our two exciting train raffles!

Amtrak East Coast Getaway Raffle

Enter for a chance to win two Amtrak tickets to any destination along the East Coast! Whether you're dreaming of a scenic retreat, a city escape, or a coastal adventure, this raffle could be your ticket to ride. The winner also receives a $25 gift card to Center of the Universe Brewing Company, five Brewski hats, and bragging rights as the lucky traveler of the year. Raffle proceeds support Downtown Ashland Association’s non-profit mission, and the winner will be announced on April 25.

Raffle - 2 Amtrak Tickets
$10.00

Ashland Santa Train Raffle

Looking for a magical holiday experience? Win six tickets to the December 2025 Ashland Santa Train, sponsored by Tiny Tim’s Trains and Toys! This festive round-trip excursion to Colonial Williamsburg includes complimentary coffee and cocoa with Mrs. Claus, onboard entertainment with Santa and his elves, and a visit to Merchants Square for holiday shopping. The winner will be notified in October 2025.

Raffle - Ashland Santa Train
$10.00

Join Us for a Day of Train-Filled Fun!

No matter how you get here, Ashland Train Day promises a celebration filled with history, entertainment, and plenty of rail-themed excitement. But if you want the full experience—from the moment you leave home to the final whistle—Amtrak Virginia is the way to go. Climb aboard, sit back, and let the train take you straight into the heart of the action. See you at the station!

Women Building Bridges To Business

Female entrepreneurs will find a powerful ally in Women Building Bridges to Business, a transformative event taking place on March 29 at Ash & Olive from 9 AM to 1 PM. Hosted by the Downtown Ashland Association, this event is designed to educate, inspire, and connect women seeking to elevate their entrepreneurial journeys.

Historically, underserved communities have faced obstacles in accessing capital for business growth. While some barriers are well-documented, others remain elusive. Women Building Bridges to Business aims to bridge this gap by equipping local entrepreneurs with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate the funding landscape successfully. Aligning with the Downtown Ashland Association’s mission to cultivate businesses and empower the local economy, this event seeks to create new opportunities for women in business.

The event will feature a dynamic keynote by Dr. Karen Totten White, a small business consultant and financial literacy expert with over 25 years of experience. Dr. White, a former Assistant Vice President and Managing Officer of a community bank, is the author of The Money Cycle: Your Personal Journey to Financial Independence. She has inspired audiences globally with her insights on leadership, personal financial development, and strategic business growth.

Attendees will also benefit from a marketing expert panel moderated by Lou Keeton, featuring Caroline Sweeney, owner of Minuteman Press of Ashland, Shanisse Palmer, social media strategist and founder of @MommiesJade, and Amy Garelick, founder of POWER UP Productions. Caroline Sweeney expressed her excitement: “Women Building Bridges will be my very first feature in a panel! I'm thrilled to educate the audience on the impacts design, marketing, and print make on growing businesses and communities. I hope to inspire and empower females to go after their dreams, and I'm looking forward to feeling inspired as well as learning from the ladies sharing this space and time.”

Shanisse Palmer echoed the sentiment, stating, “During the Women Building Bridges to Business panel, my goal is to equip women with the motivation and confidence to step into the space, trust themselves, and take action. When you create from a place of passion and enjoyment, consistency comes naturally, and burnout becomes less of a challenge. It’s all about storytelling in a way that feels true to you.”

Women Building Bridges to Business is more than just a workshop—it’s a launchpad for financial empowerment and entrepreneurial success. This program equips women with the tools to separate personal and business finances, build credit, and connect with lenders, setting the stage for long-term success. Through collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and community support, this event builds bridges that will carry women entrepreneurs toward their fullest potential.

Event Details

  • Date: March 29, 2025

  • Time: 9 AM - 1 PM

  • Location: Ash & Olive, 107 S Railroad Ave, Ashland, VA 23005

  • Itinerary:

    • 9:30 AM - 9:55 AM | Registration and Check-In

    • 10 AM - 10:50 AM | Keynote Speech by Dr. Karen White

    • 11 AM - 11:50 AM | Marketing Panel Discussion

    • 12 PM - Close | Complimentary Lunch by Ash & Olive

Attendees will enjoy a chef-crafted lunch at Ash & Olive, a fine casual dining experience known for its artisanal pizzas, curated wine menu, and welcoming atmosphere.

Secure your seat today and invest in your future!

From Hoof to Hook: Meadowgate Alpacas Helps Pitch Contestants Make a Splash

Meadowgate Alpacas presenting at the 2024 The Center Street Pitch Competition

The Center Street Pitch Competition is the ultimate proving ground for Ashland’s boldest entrepreneurs, and in 2024, Meadowgate Alpacas swam ahead of the competition, securing first place in the Agriculture & Forestry category. Their pitch wasn’t just a win—it was a wake-up call to the power of innovation in agritourism and sustainable fiber production. Now, as the 2025 competition approaches, a fresh school of contenders is gearing up to dive into the tank, eager to follow in Meadowgate’s hoofprints.

Nicole and Stephen Phillips, the dynamic duo behind Meadowgate Alpacas, entered the competition on a whim—much like a last-minute cannonball into uncharted waters. With just a week before the deadline, they decided to put their business to the test, proving that sometimes the biggest splashes come from the boldest leaps. Their edge? A revolutionary approach to alpaca ownership that prioritized not just fiber and breeding, but also animal disposition.

“When we entered this industry, the overwhelming focus was on fiber, breeding, and showing, and we were even told that ‘nobody cares’ about the disposition of the animal,” Nicole shared. “From the beginning, we knew that we could create a successful model by centering on the idea that disposition is just as important as fiber.”

Their commitment to gentle handling and socialization has paid off—big time. Their alpacas, well-acclimated to human interaction, have become the ultimate brand ambassadors, captivating visitors, attending events, and even participating in therapy programs. Thanks to their 2024 win, Meadowgate secured funding to purchase a climate-controlled van, allowing their alpaca outreach to extend into the warmer months. “Winning effectively restored a third of our market options,” Nicole explained. “We’re now able to expand not only our profitable appearances but also our free therapy program, reaching even more communities.”

But the Phillips family isn’t stopping there. Their next big goal? Launching a Virginia Fiber Pool to repurpose unused fiber from local farms into Virginia Grown socks and shoe insoles—an idea that could completely transform the state’s fiber industry. Their journey proves that sometimes, the biggest catches come from taking a chance and diving in headfirst.

Now, the 2025 Center Street Pitch hopefuls are ready to make their own waves, and Meadowgate is here to help them navigate the waters. With a fin-tastic lineup of competitors across multiple categories, it’s time to meet the next generation of business sharks before the April 10 show at the Ashland Theatre.

Meet the Contestants Ready to Sink or Swim

Center of the Universe Finalists

  • Ash & Olive is serving up a winning recipe where quality meets community. Their flame-to-table artisanal dishes, curated wine and cocktail program, and inviting atmosphere make them a hometown favorite. Can their pitch be as smooth as their gelato?

  • Free Jambalaya Studios is mixing technology and creativity to craft an immersive entertainment experience as rich and layered as its namesake dish. Will their unique approach turn heads and net them a win?

  • Monique’s Crepes is flipping expectations and crafting mouthwatering delights. With nearly 13 years in business, owner Monique Sage Pecora hopes to use the competition to keep rolling forward. Will the judges bite?

Hanover and Beyond Finalists

  • Revival Spa is creating an oasis of relaxation and wellness, proving that self-care is more than a luxury—it’s a necessity. Can they turn the competition into their own personal paradise?

  • Haven House Florals is spreading kindness one bouquet at a time. With dreams of a mobile flower and plant shop, they hope to bloom into new opportunities. Will their pitch be as vibrant as their arrangements?

  • T.Lo Noticias e Informacion is keeping the community informed with Spanish-language news coverage that’s timely, accurate, and essential. Will they make headlines in this competition?

Agriculture & Forestry Finalists

  • Davis Natives is deeply rooted in the mission of preserving and cultivating native plants. Owners Lauren and Brad Davis are hoping to branch out and inspire a movement toward sustainable landscaping.

  • Breemar Flower Farm is growing something truly special. With a focus on sustainability, they need a cooler to keep their fresh-cut flowers in top condition year-round. Will their pitch be as bright as their blooms?

  • Rhythm Ranch Homestead is harmonizing agriculture with sustainability. Their commitment to ethical farming and community engagement sets them apart. Can they strike the right chord with the judges?

  • POWER UP Productions is planting seeds of success in video storytelling. Their project, “Field and Fork: Farmer’s Market Journeys,” is a love letter to Virginia’s agricultural roots. Can they cultivate a win?

These entrepreneurs are ready to put their best fin forward and make a splash in the Center Street Pitch Competition. With their eyes on the prize and their pitches sharpened like a shark’s teeth, who will swim to the top and land the investment of a lifetime?

Come watch the drama unfold on April 10th at the Ashland Theatre—because in this tank, only the boldest ideas will survive!

Pitch Competition Deadline Extended

Entrepreneurs, dreamers, and doers, the clock is still ticking—but you’ve got more time to make your pitch perfect! The Center Street Pitch Competition has extended its application deadline from March 19 to March 21, 2025, at 5 PM, giving aspiring business owners two extra days to apply for their shot at over $35,000 in prizes.

Hosted by the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) and Downtown Ashland Association (DAA), the competition is set to take place on April 10, 2025, at the historic Ashland Theatre, offering entrepreneurs across industries the opportunity to present their business ideas and receive the funding, mentorship, and community support they need to succeed.

Why Apply?

This isn’t just a pitch—it’s a launchpad for local businesses. Entrepreneurs will compete for top prizes in three categories:

  • Center of the Universe Business (Ashland Main Street District): First place $10,000, second place $5,000, third place $2,500. The first-place winner also receives a complimentary Downtown Ashland Association membership.

  • Hanover and Beyond Business (Greater Richmond Region): First place $5,000, second place $2,500, third place $1,500. The first-place winner also receives a DEIC membership.

  • Agriculture & Forestry Business (Hanover County & Greater Richmond MSA): First place $5,000, second place $2,500, third place $1,500. The first-place winner also receives a DEIC membership.

Who Can Apply?

Don't hesitate to apply by Friday, March 21. The Center Street Pitch Competition IS for you!

  • You do not need to have an existing business—startups and new ideas are welcome!

  • Businesses located outside of Ashland can still qualify under the Hanover & Beyond or Agriculture & Forestry categories.

  • The competition is not limited to tech startups—retail, restaurants, creative ventures, and service-based businesses are strongly encouraged to apply.

Multiple prizes will be awarded, ensuring that even those who don’t win the top prize still have an opportunity to secure funding. The application process is straightforward, and resources are available to assist applicants in crafting a competitive pitch.

Get Pitch-Perfect with Free Resources

Entrepreneurs can supercharge their applications with free workshops and expert guidance available at AshlandVirginia.com/pitch, including:

Mark Your Calendar!

📅 Application Deadline: March 21, 2025, at 5 PM
📅 Pitch Competition: April 10, 2025, at Ashland Theatre (Doors open at 5:30 PM)

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by—apply today and take your business from idea to reality!

➡ Apply now at AshlandVirginia.com/pitch

About Downtown Ashland Association

Downtown Ashland Association is a community non-profit organization that works toward a strong and vibrant future for Ashland, Virginia. Through marketing initiatives, special events, business engagement, historic preservation, and more, Downtown Ashland Association contributes to the town’s vitality by deploying our time, funding, and voice on behalf of the community.

About Dominion Energy Innovation Center
The Dominion Energy Innovation Center supports high-tech entrepreneurs and small business owners who are driving the innovations needed to achieve a net-zero carbon economy.

Power Up with Expert Workshops

Are you an entrepreneur in Ashland, Virginia, or beyond, ready to take your business idea to the next level? The Center Street Pitch Competition is your opportunity to showcase your vision, gain valuable feedback, and compete for the chance to win resources that can transform your business. Applications are due by 5 PM on March 19, 2025, so don’t miss out!

To help you prepare, POWER UP Productions, in collaboration with the Downtown Ashland Association, has produced a series of expert-led workshops designed to strengthen your business strategy. These recorded sessions are available for streaming, giving you access to essential insights whenever and wherever you need them.

Stream Now: Business-Building Workshops

🔹 Business to Business Tools & Tactics

Presented by Amy Garelick of POWER UP Productions and Dorian Cunion of Your Path Coaching & Consulting, this session explores how small businesses can thrive in the B2B landscape and implement impactful marketing initiatives.

Watch Now

🔹 Search Engine Optimization & Analytics

Nickkol Lewis of Visual Appeal shares strategies for improving your business’s online visibility through SEO and analytics, helping you make informed decisions to drive growth.Watch Now

Watch Now

🔹 Establishing a Five-Year Business Plan

Dorian Cunion of Your Path Coaching & Consulting provides a roadmap to future-proof your business and optimize day-to-day management.

Watch Now

🔹 Commercial Real Estate for Small Business

Tiffany Elder, MBA of Paradigm Properties, discusses commercial real estate revitalization and how it benefits entrepreneurs, property owners, and local communities.

Watch Now

🔹 Value Proposition, Customer Data & Brand Strategy

Strengthen your business with strategies to define a compelling value proposition, leverage customer data, and build a strong brand.

Watch Now

🔹 Workforce Recruitment, Retention & Operations

Carol Reese of ReeSources shares essential strategies for attracting top talent, retaining employees, and streamlining business operations through effective SOPs

Watch Now

These workshops provide the tools you need to build a compelling pitch and a successful business. The Center Street Pitch Competition judges will be looking for depth of business understanding, existing market traction, and uniqueness of idea—so take advantage of these valuable insights!

Apply Today!

Entering is easy—just complete a few questions and submit your application before March 19 at 5 PM.

Ready to pitch your idea and power up your business? Apply today!