Culpeper Competes Awards Four Businesses $30,000

CULPEPER, Virginia (July 10, 2025) – The Town of Culpeper’s Tourism and Economic Development Department has awarded $30,000 in business investment grants to four entrepreneurs through its bi-annual Culpeper Competes program.

Culpeper Competes is a ten-week entrepreneurship education and pitch competition designed to cultivate entrepreneurial spirit and support small business success. Participants benefit from structured training, one-on-one mentorship, and expert guidance in launching or growing their businesses.

The Town’s Tourism and Economic Development team engaged experts from the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC) to deliver a robust curriculum covering business formation, financial planning, operations, legal considerations, leadership, sales, and branding.

“Each year, Culpeper Competes reminds us of the incredible talent and vision that lives within our community,” said Paige Read, Director of Tourism and Economic Development. “These entrepreneurs are more than just business owners—they’re risk-takers, innovators, and neighbors who are choosing to build their futures in Culpeper. We’re proud to invest in their dreams and even more excited to watch them thrive.”

On June 25, 2025, seven of the twenty-four program participants advanced to the final round, where they pitched their businesses before a panel of judges for a chance to win funding.

2025 Culpeper Competes Winners

2B-Q – $10,000
2B-Q delivers upscale churrasco-style and smoked meats through premier catering and pop-up events. Known for high-quality cuts like their signature picanha, paired with vibrant Latin-inspired flavors, 2B-Q elevates community dining experiences.

“We’re incredibly honored and grateful to receive this grant from the Town of Culpeper. This investment helps us take the next big step—expanding our reach, upgrading our equipment, and continuing to serve the community that’s supported us from day one!”
— Brent Blackwell, Owner and Operator

Darin’s Event Catering DBA “Tha Muncheez” – $10,000
Led by Chef Darin Morgan, Tha Muncheez is a bold, flavor-forward food truck and catering brand known for street-style comfort food with a chef’s touch—from gourmet wings and burgers to signature CheezSteaks.

“I’m grateful for the support from Culpeper and the opportunity to grow my business locally. This win motivates me to keep pushing forward and give back through my work.”
— Darin Morgan, Owner and Operator

Ducking Gravity – $5,000
Ducking Gravity is a downtown Culpeper aerial arts studio offering movement-based wellness classes for all ages and abilities. Through aerial fitness, the studio fosters creativity, confidence, and community in a supportive environment.

“This grant is a game-changer for the Ducking Gravity aerial community. It will allow us to grow, to reach more of Culpeper County, and to continue creating a space where people feel safe, strong, inspired, and connected.”
— Christina Flores, Owner and Operator

Haute to Trot – $5,000
Located at 300 S East Street, Haute to Trot is a women-owned boutique offering luxury consignment equestrian apparel and tack. With a focus on quality, sustainability, and refined country style, it brings unique value to downtown shoppers.

“Thank you for the incredible opportunity to grow my business in the Historic Heart of Culpeper. Your programs have been instrumental in making this possible.”
— Audrey Curtis, Owner and Operator

Judging Panel

The Culpeper Competes final round was evaluated by a distinguished panel of local business leaders and entrepreneurship experts:

Bo Grist, Director, Central Virginia Small Business Development Center
Kelli Weaver, Destination Development Manager, Virginia Tourism Corporation
Sam Barber, Director of Community Engagement, People Inc.
The panel brought deep experience in business development, finance, marketing, and community engagement. Finalists were scored on both their written business plans and live presentations. Judges selected winners who demonstrated strong growth potential, innovation, and the ability to positively contribute to Culpeper’s local economy.

The Culpeper Competes program is made possible through the support of the Town of Culpeper and its leadership. The Town of Culpeper Tourism and Economic Development Department extends special thanks to Town Council for recognizing the value of entrepreneurial development and providing the resources necessary to empower small business growth. The department is committed to continuing Culpeper Competes in future years, as community interest and funding allow.