Business Details
45 Years
experience
Your Partner for Business Growth in Roanoke
Founded in 1981, the Greater Williamson Road Area Business Association (GWRABA) serves as a unified voice for over 450 businesses along Roanoke's Williamson Road corridor. As a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, we advocate for local business interests while fostering economic development through strategic partnerships with city and county officials. Our establishment of the Williamson Road Area Special Service District in 1993 provided critical funding for infrastructure improvements, safety initiatives, and marketing campaigns that have revitalized this historic commercial district.With 125 active members, we organize community events like Restaurant Week and maintain The Williamson coworking space to support business growth. Our board of local business owners works tirelessly to implement our mission of strengthening the economic environment for businesses, residents, and visitors through targeted advocacy, networking opportunities, and area beautification projects.
Services
Business Advocacy
Community Events
Area Development
Networking Opportunities
Coworking Space
Details
- Year established: 1981
Highlights and features
- We've advocated for local businesses since 1981 with deep community connections
- Our Special Service District funding model directly supports business development
- We organize high-impact community events that attract thousands annually
- Our board consists of local business owners with firsthand area expertise
- We provide coworking resources and networking opportunities for business growth
What people say
Strong business advocacy
Excellent community events
Valuable networking platform
Effective area improvements
Dedicated leadership team
Services
Business Advocacy
We advocate for local businesses through policy monitoring and government relations. Our team works with city and county officials to address business concerns while promoting economic development. With 40+ years of experience, we provide business guidance and resources that help companies thrive in the Williamson Road area.
Community Events
We organize festivals, networking events, and cultural programs that attract thousands annually. Our events foster business visibility while enhancing community engagement. From Restaurant Week to Adopt-A-Street cleanups, these initiatives strengthen local business connections and attract new customers to the area.
Area Development
Through our Special Service District program, we implement infrastructure improvements and safety initiatives. Our efforts focus on road safety enhancements, public area beautification, and economic revitalization projects. These targeted investments have helped transform Williamson Road into a thriving business corridor since 1993.
Networking Opportunities
We facilitate business connections through monthly luncheons and networking events. Members gain exposure through our online directory and receive discounts on event sponsorships. Our programs create valuable connections between local businesses, residents, and potential partners throughout the Roanoke Valley.
Coworking Space
The Williamson coworking facility offers flexible workspace solutions for professionals. Our amenities include private offices, conference rooms, and shared workspaces with modern business technology. This affordable resource supports entrepreneurs and remote workers while fostering collaboration among local business professionals.
People
Chad Scott
President
As President and First Citizens Bank representative, Chad brings financial expertise to guide our economic development initiatives while supporting local business growth through strategic banking partnerships.
Buddy Rathmell
Vice President
Map Winners owner Buddy Rathmell leverages his marketing expertise to enhance business visibility while serving as Vice President, helping develop effective promotional strategies for our members.
Chuck Neely
Treasurer
Neelys Accounting Services founder Chuck Neely manages our financial operations with professional accounting expertise, ensuring responsible stewardship of the Special Service District funds that support area businesses.
Liz Sturgill
Secretary
Crowning Touch Senior Moving Services owner Liz Sturgill applies her organizational skills to document our initiatives while advocating for small business interests as Association Secretary.
Valerie Brown
Executive Director
As Executive Director, Valerie leads our daily operations with 20+ years of nonprofit management experience, implementing programs that strengthen business relationships and drive corridor revitalization efforts.
Questions
What services does GWRABA offer local businesses?
We provide business advocacy, networking events, area development initiatives, marketing exposure through our online directory, and coworking space resources to support local businesses.
How can I join the association?
Contact us via phone at 540-362-3293 or visit our office at 5301 Williamson Road Suite B to discuss membership options and benefits.
What areas do you serve?
Our primary service area includes the Williamson Road corridor from Orange Avenue to the city limits, plus Hershberger Road, Airport Road, and Towne Square areas.
Do you offer coworking space?
Yes, The Williamson facility offers flexible coworking options including private offices, shared workspaces, and conference room rentals for business professionals.
What community events do you organize?
We host Restaurant Week, Adopt-A-Street cleanups, networking luncheons, and cultural events that showcase local businesses and attract thousands of visitors annually.
How is GWRABA funded?
We receive funding through voluntary memberships and the Williamson Road Area Special Service District tax, which provides dedicated resources for business development and infrastructure improvements.
