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Rising Through Adversity
How Richmond/Henrico’s 2nd Annual
Small Business Parade Walk Celebration
Became a Beacon of Community Resilience

Diverse Chamber of Commerce and Industry | Richmond/Henrico Region | November 1, 2025
 
When the 2nd Annual Small Business Parade Walk Celebration kicked off, an unexpected hurdle emerged,  the venue was pulled just a week before the event. In the face of disruption, the Richmond/Henrico community demonstrated the core strengths of small business life—resilience, advocacy, and collaboration. This day wasn’t defined by the setback but by the collective energy of local entrepreneurs, supporters, and partners who proved that perseverance turns challenges into opportunity.
What the Day Looked Like: A Snapshot of Unity and Momentum
 
Around 70 attendees created a lively, interconnected crowd. The event was more than a parade or market; it was a living testament to the truth that small businesses bolster our economy and enrich neighborhoods across genders, nationalities, ethnicities, and backgrounds. The parade spotlighted local businesses, with neighbors cheering as a tangible sign of community pride in entrepreneurship. 
 
Pastor Daron Moore delivered a compelling live performance that energized the gathering, while a bustling marketplace—featuring food trucks, vendors, and exhibitors—invited attendees to explore and support local offerings.
Advocacy in Action, Overcoming Barriers Through Collaboration
 
Small businesses routinely face rejection and obstacles. Rather than pause, the celebration underscored the power of advocacy and community support to help entrepreneurs navigate hurdles, scale operations, and grow. 
 
Key moments of collaboration included Henrico Parks and Recreation facilitating setup, including strategic banner placement at the Taylor Farm Park entrance, and smooth scheduling that kept activities flowing. Engagement with Henrico County Outreach Agency executives and procurement officers provided practical insights into public-sector opportunities and resources available to small businesses. 
 
This cross-sector cooperation showcased a robust ecosystem where entrepreneurs connect with customers, access necessary resources, and build sustainable ventures.
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Gratitude to Our Champions, People Behind the Progress
 
This event would not have happened without a dedicated team and generous supporters. 
 
Special thanks to Michelle Augustus, National Chair Ambassador Committee; Pastor Daron Moore Regional Ambassador Southeast; Brianna Royal-Anderson Food Truck Central Event Volunteer Coordinator; DJ Tee/ Teshia Lesane Music Director; Teresa Dietrich, Sassafras Pictures; Kanya Ford Community Liaison; Jerlisa Turner Director of Henrico’s Outreach Agency; and Annette Ross Supplier Relations Manager Henrico County Department of Finance-Purchasing. 
 
Henrico Parks and Recreation Jeannie Murray earned heartfelt appreciation for their warm welcome and hands-on help, and Henrico County Outreach Agency Executive and Henrico Procurement Officer contributed insightful participation. 
 
Their teamwork ensured a welcoming environment and a spirited schedule from start to finish.
Celebrating Local Small Business Award Recipients
 
The event honored a number of remarkable entrepreneurs who are moving the region forward: Grandma T’s Sweet Breads, LLC — Terry Hartman; DIY Daph — Daphne Santiago; Sassy Meats & Thangs — Jeffrey Davis; It Works — Glenna Snead. The awards highlighted resilience, impact, and leadership, with DJ Tee signaling each moment of recognition as the recipients walked the red carpet.
 
A Call to Action, Visibility, Community, and Policy
 
Visibility matters. When small businesses are celebrated and embedded in the communities they serve, resilience is amplified, connections are strengthened, and investment follows. This recap reaffirms a simple, powerful message: every small business contributes to a stronger, more vibrant region. 
 
Our ongoing commitments include elevating diverse voices, sustaining advocacy that links businesses to resources and public-sector opportunities, and fostering collaboration among owners, community leaders, and policymakers to fortify local ecosystems.
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What’s Next?
Join Us for the 3rd Annual Parade Walk Celebration

The ripple effects of this year’s celebration are powering momentum toward the next event. We invite you to participate—whether as a business owner, supporter, or advocate for inclusive economic growth. 
 
Subscribe to our newsletter, follow Diverse Chamber of Commerce and Industry on social media, and check our events calendar for opportunities to engage. Together, we’ll continue building a resilient, connected, and prosperous Richmond/Henrico Region and beyond.