Stay In The Know With IncuHub
At IncuHub, we are passionate about building community, championing entrepreneurship, and sparking what we call “Returns on Collision”—a concept we’ve developed alongside fellow innovators to highlight the power of connection. It’s about the value that comes from meaningful relationships, peer learning, and knowledge-sharing. Our monthly newsletters are crafted with that mission in mind: to share insights, celebrate collaboration, and nurture a vibrant, supportive network. To learn about our upcoming events, visit our Events page.
April, 2026
IncuHub - Newport News Gets Closer to Opening!
Work on our new Newport News location really kicked into high gear during the past month, with several ongoing activities and renovations underway or nearing completion.
Milestones include the completion of the installation of new carpet and flooring, installation of high speed WiFi, and installation of a new secure access system and security cameras. We’ve also been busy installing new cabinets and countertops, appliances, furnishings, decor, and equipment throughout the building. As a result of these efforts, the building is really starting to shine and taking on the look and feel of our Portsmouth and Hampton locations!
We were also grateful for the opportunity to host Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones for a tour of the space. The Mayor has been an enthusiastic supporter of bringing an IncuHub to Newport News and we’re grateful for his partnership and support.
Our Newport News website is now live and we will soon be able to open the building to interested Members for tours as we prepare for a soft opening later in May. Stay tuned for more information in the weeks to come!
IncuHub Partners with Hampton Economic Development to Host "How To Do Business With Hampton"
This past month, IncuHub and the Hampton Economic Development Department teamed up to plan and host an insightful and informative Lunch ‘n Learn Workshop titled “How To Do Business With Hampton”, designed to give Hampton-based businesses information about and access to opportunities to work with the City as well as take advantage of the many resources the City makes available to small businesses. Turnout reached maximum capacity, and guests enjoyed delicious sandwiches, chips, and pasta salad from local restaurant Baked Bistro while participating in a panel discussion that included representatives from the City of Hampton’s Community Development, Economic Development, and Procurement Offices. This event is just one of many ways that IncuHub works to collaborate with our partners to give business owners exposure and access to opportunities and resources. We’re extremely grateful to the City of Hampton and the Hampton Economic Development Team for their ongoing partnership and collaboration and support of our business community.
IncuHub Hosts Logistics Owners for a Networking Event and Happy Hour
As home to the Port of Virginia, our region relies heavily on its logistics companies for the movement of goods and products and to support a robust regional economy. With two of the Port’s primary terminals located in the City of Portsmouth, it’s no surprise that several logistics companies call the Portsmouth IncuHub home.
Earlier this month, owners and representatives from local logistics companies gathered at IncuHub in Portsmouth for a fun filled networking event and happy hour. Many great connections were made during the event, which was part of IncuHub’s commitment to bringing entrepreneurs together to grow and connect. A special thank you to IncuHub Members VRI Fleet Management and Bardot Logistics for sponsoring the event, as well as to the Portsmouth Economic Development Team and all of the logistics companies for their participation.
Member Spotlight: Sharonda Banks, Sha'Mar
Sha’Mar is an online women’s boutique offering a curated collection for the evolved woman who wants to feel confident, stylish, and put together—without chasing trends. Designed for women who have outgrown fast fashion but still appreciate quality and style, Sha’Mar focuses on timeless pieces that seamlessly fit into everyday life.
Founded by Sharonda Banks, Sha’Mar began as a brick-and-mortar boutique in Downtown Hampton and has since evolved into a growing e-commerce brand. With a passion for helping women feel confident in what they wear, Sharonda carefully selects each piece with intention—prioritizing fit, quality, and versatility.
Sha’Mar’s collections are designed to move with the modern woman’s lifestyle, offering elevated options for everything from brunch and the boardroom to date nights and weekend getaways. The brand is rooted in the belief that getting dressed should feel effortless—and always look elevated.
Sharonda and her business are also a Members of IncuHub’s Hampton location, and Sharonda embodies IncuHub’s community-oriented culture as a very active presence in the Downtown Hampton community, involved in several community organizations and causes.
Explore the latest collections at www.shopshamar.com and discover pieces that make getting dressed the easiest part of your day.
IncuHub Featured on the Fervent Four Podcast
Managing Director Gene Granger recently made an appearance on a regional favorite: the Fervent Four Podcast, hosted by Innovate Hampton Roads’ Tim Ryan and Zack Miller. Gene discussed why the IncuHub’s community-based model has been so successful in the coworking world, driving IncuHub’s rapid growth from a local operation to one that has become truly regional.
You can read the article and watch the full podcast episode here.
Community Highlights
We continued our efforts to support our communities and build strong relationships with local leaders during the past month. Below are some highlights:
We attended the annual Newport News State of the City Address, delivered by Mayor Phillip Jones. This year’s theme was “Building Tomorrow Together” and IncuHub is thrilled to be a part of that with the opening of our Newport News location.
We hosted State Senator Emily Jordan for a tour of the Portsmouth IncuHub. We appreciate the Senator for her advocacy for our region and support of our business community.
We participated in the Annual Spring Business Expo in Chesapeake, hosted by the Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce.
We participated in a Career Fair at Churchland Middle School in Portsmouth, designed to give students exposure to career opportunities.
We joined IncuHub business owners to attend IncuHub Member Community Outreach Coalition‘s Volunteer Appreciation Event in Norfolk.
March, 2026
Work Continues on IncuHub's Newport News Location
As we approach a Spring opening, renovations on our new Newport News location are moving quickly. With interior painting nearly complete and installation of fixtures and appliances continuing, new carpet and flooring will be installed in early April, along with the commencement of exterior work.
We’re also experiencing an increase in interest in our new location, as word spreads that we’re coming to Newport News! We already have several names on our waiting list for offices. If you or anyone you know would like to be included on this list, please reach out today!
We were pleased to host several visitors during the month of March, giving them the opportunity to tour and preview the space. Visitors included Vice Mayor and City Councilman Curtis Bethany III, Jay Grant, Terri Francis, and Eoghan “Owen” Miller with the City Manager’s Office, representatives from the Newport News Public Art Foundation, as well as a Team from the Newport News Fire Department.
We were also pleased to have the opportunity to meet Newport News Police Chief Steve Drew, share our vision for IncuHub, and discuss opportunities to collaborate with his department to support the community.
We’re grateful to the entire Newport News community for their interest and support and look forward to opening later this Spring!
IncuHub Featured in Oyster Pointer: IncuHub Announces Expansion to Newport News
Below is an excerpt from a recent article published in Oyster Pointer announcing IncuHub’s expansion to Newport News:
With a deep-rooted commitment to building entrepreneurial community, Marko and Kristin Frigelj founded IncuHub, a business incubator and co-working space located in federally designated HUBZones aimed at empowering small businesses and startups with resources, connections and space to thrive.
Since opening their first location in Portsmouth in 2019, the Frigeljs have turned IncuHub into more than just a workspace, it’s a vibrant community where ambitious entrepreneurs grow, connect and succeed. Their second location in downtown Hampton debuted in January 2024, and together both sites now support more than 260 member businesses spanning industries from consulting and education to healthcare and technology.
Today, IncuHub has announced its newest expansion: a third location at 115 28th Street in Newport News — expected to open late spring to early summer 2026. This expansion underscores IncuHub’s ongoing mission to bring purpose-built entrepreneurial spaces to all of Hampton Roads.
IncuHub to Host Logistics Networking Event in April
IncuHub is thrilled to team up with Member Businesses VRI Fleet Management and Bardot Logistics to host a Networking Event and Happy Hour for Logistics companies!
Scheduled for April 16 at 4:30 pm at our Portsmouth location, the event will bring together business owners, employees, and individuals interested in working with logistics companies for a fun evening of networking, food, and drinks.
The event is free and open to the public and guests may RSVP here.
IncuHub Hosts Hospitality Huddle and Showcases Conference Rooms in Hampton
IncuHub was thrilled to host the March Hampton Hospitality Huddle at our Hampton location. Sponsored by the Hampton Convention & Visitors Bureau, this monthly event brings together business and community leaders to explore the many hospitality amenities available in the City of Hampton. Guests were able to network and explore IncuHub’s fantastic conference room options while enjoying a continental breakfast, coffee, and juice.
In case you didn’t know, our conference rooms are available to be rented by the public at very competitive hourly rates. If you’re looking for a professional space to host your next business meeting or event in the heart of Downtown Hampton or Portsmouth, look no further than IncuHub. Check out our available conference rooms today.
Member Spotlight: Jahrah Transportation
Shanta Burgess and her husband Dewayne founded Jahrah Transportation in 2001. Jahrah is truly a family business, operated by Shanta, Dewayne, and their two daughters and son. Family values are evident throughout the business. As Shanta says, “we love humanity, we love to serve”.
Jahrah offers a full range of transportation and trucking services, including interstate freight, demolition, clearing, grading, snow plowing, transport of dry vans, dump trailers, flat beds, containers, CDL training, and more. They are also exploring new service offerings, including escorts of over-sized vehicles and dump truck hauling.
Jahrah takes a customer-focused approach. Shanta explains, ” no job is too small for our company…we listen to our customers’ needs and provide service with excellence, integrity, and a smile.
In their 25 years in business, Jahrah has served all seven cities in the Hampton Roads region.
Jahrah Transportation joined IncuHub’s Portsmouth location in 2022, and plays a key role in the movement of goods and freight, a critical need in a region dominated by one of the largest ports in the country.
We’re thrilled Shanta and the Team at Jahrah Transportation are part of our IncuHub family! If you are interested in learning more about Jahrah Transportation and their services, you may email them or call Shanta (757-897-4977) or Dewayne (757-227-8989).
IncuHub Members Support THRIVE Peninsula
Members of the IncuHub Team and our member businesses recently spent an evening at THRIVE Peninsula, staffing THRIVE’s grocery store, The Market at THRIVE, and assisting shoppers as they took advantage of this service that offers free groceries to families and individuals in need.
In addition to the Market, THRIVE also offers critical bill assistance, financial coaching, a free bookstore, an on-site garden that provides fresh produce to The Market, and resource connections and supportive services through Project Connect.
Giving back to our community is core to IncuHub’s values, and we are so grateful to have had the opportunity to work with THRIVE for the past two years.
We look forward to continuing to support this incredible organization, and encourage you to get involved as well! For information on how to support or volunteer for THRIVE, check out their website today.
Community Highlights
We continued our efforts to support our communities and build strong relationships with local leaders during the past month. Below are some highlights:
We met with Steve Zollos, Executive Director of Senior Services of Southeastern Virginia, to discuss opportunities for collaboration.
Founder Marko Frigelj attended a roundtable with United States Congressman Rob Wittman and local business leaders.
We attended “Open Doors, Emerging Leaders”, an event for entrepreneurs at Tidewater Community College in Portsmouth.
We joined government, business and community leaders from across the region to celebrate Newport News City Councilman John Eley’s birthday at the Virginia Air & Space Science Center.
We attended the groundbreaking of a new 11,000 square foot facility to support the operations and services of the Big H.O.M.I.E.S. Community Outreach Program in Portsmouth.
At the Olde Towne Business Association‘s Annual Meeting in Portsmouth, Managing Director Gene Granger was elected to serve as the organization’s 1st Vice President.
February, 2026
Progress Continues on IncuHub in Newport News!
Work continues on our new Newport News location, with significant progress being made on plumbing and electrical updates and interior painting. We’re preparing for the installation of brand new carpet and flooring, and have started ordering new furnishings and appliances as we prepare the building for opening! We’re also in the planning phases for exterior work on the building. Once complete, the building is going to truly shine, both inside and out!
We also continue to meet with local government and business leaders as well as community partners and stakeholders to share with them our vision for a thriving community of entrepreneurs in the heart of Newport News. A special thank you to Commissioner of the Revenue Tiffany Boyle, who helped arrange a fantastic meeting with Paster Roberto Dial of Family of Believes Worship Center, a new and growing church in our neighborhood. We appreciate the strong support we’ve received from throughout the community.
As of now, we’re targeting a Spring Grand Opening – stay tuned to this space for more news and updates as our opening approaches!
IncuHub Team Advocates for Local Business in Richmond
Earlier this month, IncuHub Founder Marko Frigelj and Managing Director Gene Granger traveled to Richmond with other Portsmouth business leaders, where we had the opportunity to meet with Members and Legislative Staffers at the General Assembly to advocate for issues affecting business in Portsmouth and the greater Hampton Roads region. We were also thrilled to be joined by Portsmouth Mayor Shannon Glover and City Councilman Mark Hugel.
Efforts like these demonstrate IncuHub’s commitment to supporting local business and ensuring that policies and legislation on the statewide level create an environment where small businesses and entrepreneurs can grow and thrive.
A special thank you to Gretchen Heal, Vice President at the Hampton Roads Chamber, for coordinating these efforts, as well as the Portsmouth leaders who joined us and the Members of the General Assembly and their staffs who took the time to meet with us.
Welcome Hampton Intern!
We are thrilled to welcome Yenelis “Nellie” Jones, who joined our IncuHub Team this month as an Intern at our Hampton location. Sponsored by the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, Nellie’s internship will consist of marketing, member support, and a variety of on-site and administrative initiatives.
Nellie is a graduate of Woodside High School in Newport News and is pursuing a degree at George Mason University, with plans for a career in business marketing.
Participating in these fantastic programs and hosting interns is part of IncuHub’s commitment to mentoring and supporting our next generation of entrepreneurs and business leaders. Welcome, Nellie!
Member Spotlight: Deena Moore Hughes, Do Gooders of Hampton Roads
Deena Moore Hughes founded Do Gooders of Hampton Roads and is currently a member of our Hampton location.
The Do Gooders started on February 6, 2015. It was a snowy day in Hampton, VA. People were home from work and children were home from school. Deena’s son, Leon, and one of her best friends, Vondreka Fox, were enjoying a relaxing conversation in the living room about change. One of her friends, Tanesha Semerzier, posted a picture on Facebook of New Yorkers tying scarves on the trees in Central Park for the homeless. They started bouncing around ideas on how they could help on a small scale. That simple act of kindness by the New Yorkers, paired with Deena’s experience working with the Neighborhood Commission for the City of Hampton and training with Jim Moynihan, led to the creation of the Do Gooders. And the Do Gooders was created.
As Deena says:
“Our mission is to foster the spirit of doing good for others—helping each other and creating an infectious spirit of spreading love throughout the community; to encourage community cohesiveness, pride, and positive outcomes and behaviors. We will support neighborhood needs as best we can.”
Focused on community engagement and volunteerism, Do Gooders have 5 initiatives:
- Corporate and Community Outreach
- Volunteer and Membership Mobilization
- Civic Engagement
- Youth Engagement
- Seniors in the Community
To support these initiatives, they host several signature events throughout the year, including clothing and food drives, community cleanups, community celebrations, support for children and youth, and more.
We’re extremely proud of the amazing work Deena and the Do Gooders are doing and are thrilled they’ve chosen to call our Hampton location home. To learn more or contribute to their great work, visit their website today.
IncuHub Rebranding Efforts Underway!
You may have noticed some changes in our branding and marketing materials lately – we’re excited to undertake a rebranding project that kicked off earlier this year that includes a new, dynamic logo while still maintaining the IncuHub branding that has become recognizable across the region. You will see these new logos unveiled across our communications, marketing, and website as the year progresses. We hope you love them as much as we do!
A huge thank you to IncuHub Owner Kristin Frigelj, and Amie Dale, owner of Polished Strategies, for their efforts working on this exciting project!
Community Highlights
We continued our efforts to support our communities and build strong relationships with local leaders during the past month. Below are some highlights:
In conjunction with our visit to the Virginia General Assembly in Richmond, we participated in the Virginia Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Chamber Day Events at the Omni Hotel in Richmond.
We were invited to join the Portsmouth Mayor’s Military Affairs Committee on an ongoing basis, an opportunity to collaborate with local military leadership and strengthen our commitment to supporting military veterans-turned-entrepreneurs.
We hosted Dr. Thomas Irwin, Executive Director of the Center for Mission Engineering at Old Dominion University, to discuss opportunities for collaboration between his Team and IncuHub businesses.
January, 2026
Vote for The IncuHub in the CoVaBIZ Magazine Best of Business Awards!
Voting is officially open in the CoVaBIZ Magazine 2026 Best of Business Awards, and The IncuHub is thrilled to have been nominated in two categories for the second year in a row:
- Best Coworking Space on the Peninsula
- Best Coworking Space on the Southside
We were recognized as a Best Coworking Space in both categories in 2025 and are asking for your help to make sure we are recognized in 2026 as well!
Click here to access the voting page, navigate to the “Best Coworking Space on the Peninsula” and “Best Coworking Space on the Southside” categories and register – and then you can vote for The IncuHub!
Thank you in advance for your support – and please share with your family, friends, and colleagues!
Progress Continues on The IncuHub in Newport News!
We’ve been hard at work at our new building at 115 28th St in Downtown Newport News. When the building officially opens – targeted for this Spring – it will be the third IncuHub in Hampton Roads and a wonderful home for business owners and entrepreneurs in the heart of Newport News.
We’ve made significant progress working on HVAC, plumbing, and electrical updates, and are getting ready to start painting. When the work is done, the building is sure to shine – inside and out – and have the same inviting, professional, and comfortable atmosphere as our other IncuHub locations.
We’ve also been busy meeting with elected officials, community partners, and business leaders to share our plans for the newest IncuHub.
A special thanks to Newport News City Coucilman John Eley, who came for a site visit earlier this month and was able to preview our plans and progress, as well as Commissioner of the Revenue Tiffany Boyle and representatives from the Newport News Economic Development Team and Newport News Shipbuilding, who visited in December.
More visits will be scheduled in the coming weeks and months, and we will continue to keep everyone updated on our progress. We hope you’re as excited as we are to bring our region’s entrepreneurial energy and spirit to Newport News!
New Year, New Workspace!
If you or anyone you know made a New Year’s resolution to find that perfect workspace or really jumpstart your business in 2026, look no further than The IncuHub! With affordable, flexible, and professional workspace options – including private offices, shared and dedicated workspace, and wonderful meeting spaces – we’ve got you covered.
We currently have two large offices available at our Hampton location and one small office available at our Portsmouth location, and are always able to accommodate businesses in need of Dedicated Desks, Shared Desks, Mailboxes, and Conference Rooms.
In addition to great workspaces, we’re home to an amazing community of business owners and entrepreneurs, and provide support services, facilitate connections, and host free events throughout the year.
We encourage you to reach out and schedule a tour today and discover why our Members love working at The IncuHub!
Member Spotlight: Tifeshon Adams, Independent Licensed Broker
Tifeshon Adams helps individuals and families build confidence in their financial future through annuities, life insurance, Medicare guidance, and retirement protection strategies. Her education‑first approach emphasizes clarity, stability, and long‑term peace of mind.
With over 30 years of customer service experience, Tifeshon entered the industry after helping her grandmother navigate Medicare—a moment that shaped her commitment to serving clients with patience, compassion, and genuine understanding.
She provides fixed and fixed indexed annuities for lifetime income, term and permanent life insurance for family and legacy protection, and Medicare and supplemental healthcare options to help manage retirement costs. Clients value her ability to make complex decisions simple and empowering.
Her mission is to protect what matters most and help every client plan confidently for the road ahead.
Tifeshon joined The IncuHub in April 2025 and has become a regular presence at our Portsmouth location, where she manages her business and meets with clients. She has become an incredibly engaged member of our community, always willing and eager to get to know other IncuHub members and share her knowledge and experience with them. We’re thrilled she is a part of our community and look forward to watching her business grow and thrive!
Connect with Tifeshon:
(757) 919‑9305 | tifeshona@amotherscare.com |
Community Highlights
The IncuHub Team continued our efforts to support our communities and build strong relationships with local leaders during the past month. Below are some highlights:
We were invited to attend a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signing between HRSD, Wintec Glovis, and K-Water at HRSD’s SWIFT Research Center in Suffolk.
We attended the swearing-in ceremony for City of Hampton Commissioner of the Revenue Michael Harris. We’ve enjoyed getting to know Commissioner Harris during the past year and look forward to working with him.
We attended a Legislative Send Off Party in Portsmouth in advance of this year’s General Assembly Session, hosted by Senator L. Louise Lucas, Speaker of the House of Delegates Don Scott, and Delegate Cliff Hayes.
Several IncuHub Members attended the Hampton Roads Chamber’s January Business Social at Rivers Casino Portsmouth.
Managing Director Gene Granger was invited to speak about the Olde Towne Business Association at a workshop hosted by Portsmouth Economic Development.
Contact Us
Hours of Operation:
For Members:
24 Hours a day, seven days a week
Office Hours:
9-5 Monday-Friday, by appointment only