Join Our Team
Help shape the future of entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital skills in Southern Virginia.
The SOVA Innovation Hub is growing, and we’re looking for people who want to help build stronger pathways for entrepreneurs, learners, and communities across the region. Our work is powered by a mix of full-time staff, independent contractors, volunteers, and partners. Whether you’re looking for a formal role or a way to contribute your time, expertise, or organization’s resources, there are multiple opportunities to get involved.
Want to learn more about the people and partners behind our work?
Meet Our Team →
Opportunities Overview
There are several ways to get involved depending on your experience, interests, and availability.
Independent Contractors
Support outreach, programming, and ecosystem development.
Employment
Serve in full-time positions through Mid-Atlantic Broadband Communities Corporation (MBC).
Partners
Collaborate with us to expand programs, resources, and regional impact.
Volunteers
Support events, programs, and community initiatives.
Employment Opportunities
W2 Employee roles with Mid-Atlantic Broadband Communities Corporation (MBC) supporting SOVA Innovation Hub programs and initiatives
RISE Navigator
1099 Independent Contractor to the SOVA Innovation Hub
Support entrepreneurs across Southern Virginia by helping connect them to the right resources, relationships, and next steps.
View Position Details
RISE Navigators serve as connectors, guides, and trusted points of contact for entrepreneurs and small business owners. This role is community-based and relationship-driven, with a focus on outreach, referrals, and strengthening the regional entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Important note:
This is not a business consulting role. RISE Navigators are not expected to provide in-depth business advising or technical assistance. Instead, the role focuses on understanding available resources and making strong, appropriate referrals.
Navigators help ensure entrepreneurs are connected to the right support at the right time, including but not limited to business consulting, capital access, and training programs.
What you’ll do:
- Meet with entrepreneurs in person or virtually
- Listen, assess needs, and connect individuals to relevant resources and partners
- Make referrals to organizations such as the Longwood Small Business Development Center (LSBDC), capital providers, and training programs
- Represent RISE through outreach, events, and local relationship-building
- Stay informed about available programs, services, and ecosystem partners
- Share insights to help strengthen coordination across the region
Focus of the work:
- Supporting business creation and growth within traded sector and target industry businesses
- Strengthening pathways for scalable, high-impact entrepreneurship
- Aligning local efforts with regional economic development priorities
What we’re looking for:
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Familiarity with the local business and community landscape
- Ability to listen, assess needs, and make thoughtful connections
- Reliability, professionalism, and follow-through
- Interest in entrepreneurship, economic development, and community-based work
How to Apply
Please provide a 1 to 2 page capability statement highlighting your relevant experience, areas of expertise, and qualifications. You may also attach a resume if you wish. Please email your capability statement and optional resume as a single PDF to: Lauren Mathena, RISE Program Director at lauren.mathena@sovainnovationhub.com.
Want to Learn More?
If you are interested in contributing to our work, please explore current and upcoming opportunities above, or reach out to hello@sovainnovationhub.com to start a conversation about how you can get involved.