2nd Annual Small Business
Parade Walk Celebration
Virginia Beach 

2nd Annual Small Business Parade Walk Celebration Virginia Beach 

Welcome to a detailed recap of a sunny, spirited day on Virginia Beach’s Boardwalk—the 2nd Annual Diverse Chamber of Commerce Parade Walk Celebration. Held on Saturday September 13, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, this event brought together diverse small businesses, community leaders, and residents for a celebration of entrepreneurship, collaboration, and service. The Boardwalk setting provided the perfect backdrop: sun, sea breeze, and a festival atmosphere that highlighted the strength of diversity in our local economy.

Meet the hosts who set the tone for the day. National Ambassador Chair Michelle Augustus represented Virginia Beach with poise and vision, Regional Ambassador Pastor Daron Moore brought Portsmouth’s energy and leadership to the event, and Regional Ambassador Eva Tutic of Virginia Diverse offered a broad perspective on entrepreneurship and community service. Together, they embodied the event’s throughline: diversity is a strength, entrepreneurship is a path to prosperity, and collaboration is the engine that powers a thriving local economy.

The parade unfolded along the iconic Virginia Beach Boardwalk, where music and laughter filled the air and attendees enjoyed a family-friendly, festival-like experience. The event underscored the importance of supporting minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, and other diverse enterprises, celebrating the contributions these businesses make to our community’s culture and economy.

Public safety and community trust were front and center as the Sheriff’s Office participated in the parade. Their presence signified a steadfast commitment to safety, collaboration, and service to the community. This partnership between law enforcement and local businesses is a cornerstone of the Diverse Chamber’s mission to create secure, welcoming environments where small businesses can flourish.

Vendor participation doubled this year, expanding opportunities for entrepreneurs to showcase a broader array of products and services. From artisanal crafts and wellness products to culinary offerings and professional services, the Boardwalk buzzed with activity. Attendees enjoyed live demonstrations, product tastings, and interactive experiences, all underscored by rhythm and celebration.
 
A highlight of the day was the City of Virginia Beach’s continued support, including a proclamation from Mayor Robert “Bobby” Dyer designating the third week of July each year as Diverse Chamber of Commerce and Industry Small Diverse Business Week. This proclamation honors the essential contributions of diverse small businesses to the city’s economy, culture, and quality of life, and it signals a continued commitment to inclusive economic growth.
Spirit of Entrepreneurship: 2025 Award Recipients
 
Nature’s Goodness LLC — Christy Parker: Turning nature’s oils into wellness breakthroughs through compassionate, entrepreneurial leadership.
 
  • Moore CyberEd LLC — Daron Moore: Delivering premier cybersecurity education with strategic insight and disciplined execution.
  • Venue By Design LLC — Michelle Augustus (Co-Owner) and Rosa Roche (Co-Owner): Elevating events with premier spaces and visionary entrepreneurship.
  • TheraFlow Health — Eva Tutic: Advancing lymphatic therapy with innovative care and sustainable entrepreneurship.
 
2025 Community Leader Awards honored several organizations and individuals for their service and impact:
 
  • Virginia Beach Sheriff Office: Commitment, Integrity, Compassion, and Professionalism.
  • Bon Secours Mercy Health: “Good Health to Those in Need.”
  • Sentara Healthcare: “Improving Health Everyday.”
  • Bill Kelly (City of Virginia Beach Resort and Tourism Initiatives Administration): Acknowledging leadership in tourism initiatives.

2025 Mayor for All Award:

City of Virginia Beach Mayor Robert “Bobby” Dyer, celebrated with the motto “Good Vibes Only” and the message “A Mayor for All, Lifting Every Voice and Community.”

A sustained thread throughout the day was the power of collaboration. Diverse Chamber leaders worked hand in hand with city officials, law enforcement, health partners, and local businesses to create an environment where diversity is celebrated as a strength, not a token. This model of cross-sector partnership demonstrates how communities can come together to support diverse small businesses in meaningful ways.
 
Looking ahead, the momentum from the 2nd Annual Parade Walk Celebration suggests ongoing growth and impact. The event has become a cornerstone of Virginia Beach’s calendar for recognizing and advancing diverse entrepreneurship and serves as a catalyst for new partnerships, mentorship opportunities, and supplier diversification programs across the region.

Get involved or learn more

If you’re a business owner or community partner, there are many ways to participate in future celebrations—consider vendor opportunities, sponsorships, or volunteering. For the next event, stay tuned to the Diverse Chamber of Commerce channels and the City of Virginia Beach announcements for dates, activities, and registration details.