For nearly 25 years, Robert Kingsbury has transformed a passion for chocolate into a business rooted in craftsmanship, creativity and connection. Founded in November 2001 with[AH1.1][KA1.2] a storefront in Old Town Alexandria, Kingsbury Chocolates now operates from Arlington, where Kingsbury creates handmade confections, hosts pop-up events and participates in markets throughout Northern Virginia.

Claudia Tordini's journey to entrepreneurship began long before she opened her Arlington business. As a teenager growing up in Argentina, a summer job sparked an interest in the human side of work and leadership. Years later, that interest evolved into the Experiential Learning Lab, where she helps professionals become more confident, authentic and effective leaders.

Este Mes de la Herencia Hispana, el Departamento de Desarrollo Económico de Arlington, a través de BizLaunch en Español, está destacando a los emprendedores, organizaciones y líderes comunitarios cuyo talento, creatividad y perseverancia ayudan a que Arlington prospere.

This Hispanic Heritage Month, Arlington Economic Development, through BizLaunch en Español, is shining a spotlight on the entrepreneurs, organizations, and community leaders whose talent, creativity, and perseverance help make Arlington thrive.

Aspiring retail entrepreneurs and product-based small businesses will soon have an exciting new opportunity to grow through NEXT., a new retail incubator program launching in November through Arlington Economic Development’s BizLaunch program and in partnership with the Ballston Business Improvement District (BID) and the Ballston Quarter Mall.

For Tessa Cannon, books are more than stories. They’re a way to build community. As the owner of The Wandering Shelf, an independent mobile bookstore that launched in Arlington in May 2025, Cannon brings books directly to readers across the community.

When Maripili O’Connell launched Sun & Honey Grazing in spring 2026, she set out to do more than create beautiful charcuterie boards. Her goal was to make it easier for people to gather, celebrate and connect.

While summer is often a slower season for many businesses, BizLaunch has been hard at work supporting Arlington entrepreneurs and preparing an exciting lineup of fall programs. From business growth strategies to inspiring founder stories, there are plenty of opportunities ahead for small business owners looking to learn, connect and grow.

ARLINGTON, Va. — A new small business is hitting Arlington streets this summer with a community-focused twist on a classic treat. Amanda’s Churn, founded by Arlington entrepreneur Amanda Pierce, has launched a mobile ice cream bike serving scratch-made, small-batch ice cream across the region.

When Eddie Kaufholz and his family moved to Arlington nearly five years ago, they were not thinking about starting a business. They wanted to live in a place that was diverse, interesting and full of opportunity, with a school system they could rely on. Arlington fit.