The National Industries for the Blind (NIB) is celebrating a special anniversary — 15 years as a member of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce (The Chamber ALX).
NIB is the largest employment resource for people who are blind in the U.S. and is an active participant with the chamber. In 2024, NIB and its associated agencies provided employment to 5,142 people who are blind, culminating in more than $172 million in wages and benefits.
Since it was announced in August, it was no surprise that the Chamber ALX‘s 2025 Business Leader of the Year Award was presented Thursday night (Oct. 23) to the Virginia Tech DC Area Launch Team.
Still, there were a number of other contentious business awards, and ALXnow was at the Westin Alexandria Old Town (400 Courthouse Square) to see them handed out. Below are the winners of the micro, small, medium, large, rising star, non-profit, and overall businesses of the year in Alexandria.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce announced finalists Wednesday for its 2025 Best in Business Awards, describing the Oct. 23 ceremony as “our very own version of the Oscars.”
The awards will take place from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Westin Alexandria Old Town, 400 Courthouse Square, with Burke & Herbert Bank presenting the event. The ceremony begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by a reception at 7:30 p.m.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce will host its 2025 Legislative Reception on Thursday, Sept. 4, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at The Alexandrian in Old Town Alexandria.
The annual event will bring together chamber members and guests with elected officials for networking in what organizers describe as a “relaxed and elegant setting.” The chamber will also release its 2026 Legislative Agenda during the reception.
The Virginia Tech DC Area Launch Team has been named the Chamber ALX’s Business Leader of the Year.
The first of three Virginia Tech academic buildings held its grand opening in February, ushering in computer science research and development programs to hundreds of master’s degree students. The first academic building is 11 stories, 300,000 square feet and located next door to the Potomac Yard Metro station.
Valvoline Instant Oil Change opened its newest location on Tuesday (July 22) at a longstanding Del Ray auto repair shop.
Staff from Valvoline Instant Oil Change and leadership from the Chamber ALX cut the ribbon at the business at 3405 Mount Vernon Avenue. That’s the former longtime home to Lube-It Pennzoil.
Good morning, Alexandria!
🗓️ Today is Monday, July 21, the 202nd day of 2025. There are 163 days left in the year.
Need something to smile about? There’s a new dental office in Old Town North.
Dental Inc. officially opened its doors to the public on Saturday (May 10) at 1195 N. Fayette Street. Owners Dr. Kapil Kotadia and Prutha Kotadia were joined at the ribbon cutting by Mayor Alyia Gaskins, City Council Member Canek Aguirre and Chamber ALX CEO Joe Haggerty.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce is recognizing seasoned professionals with its new “40 Over 40” initiative, which spotlights individuals who are making waves in their industries and communities.
In an email to members, the Chamber ALX revealed the names of 40 honorees who are pushing boundaries, redefining success, and demonstrating exceptional leadership and innovation.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce will honor local first responders and community leaders at its Community Champions Honors event on May 22.
Inova Health System is presenting the ceremony, which will take place at Belle Haven Country Club from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
The Alexandria Chamber of Commerce (The Chamber ALX) has unveiled its 2025 40 Under 40 list, spotlighting young professionals who are making waves across various sectors.
The Chamber ALX has released the names of 40 individuals under 40 who’ve made their mark in business, tech, nonprofits, civic engagement, public service, education, and the arts.
