The Advancement Foundation Opens Enrollment for 2026 Gauntlet & QUEST Programs February Gauntlet Launch Approaching; Live Online Q&A January 30   Roanoke, VA (Jan. 27, 2026) - January 27, 2026 — The Advancement Foundation (TAF) is welcoming entrepreneurs into its 2026 Gauntlet and QUEST programs as the organization prepares for the February launch of the 12th annual Gauntlet, its flagship business program and competition. The Gauntlet Orientation class is Feb. 3, 2026, with core classes beginning Feb. 10. The 10-week program brings entrepreneurs together for structured learning, implementation, and peer support as they strengthen core business systems and clarify next steps. Enrollment remains open as TAF continues building a strong and diverse cohort of participants. To support entrepreneurs who are considering participation, TAF will host a live online informational Q&A on Friday, Jan. 30 at 9:30 a.m. The session is open to prospective participants and will include an overview of both programs, guidance on fit, and time for live questions. The link to sign up for the Q&A can be found on The Advancement Foundation website, advancementfoundation.org. For more than twelve years, TAF has supported entrepreneurs across the Commonwealth through proven, implementation-focused pathways that reduce isolation, eliminate decision fatigue, and accelerate business growth. To date, TAF has supported more than 1,500 entrepreneurs, built a cross-regional network of founders and mentors, and helped establish one of Virginia’s most robust entrepreneurial ecosystems. “Entrepreneurs can accelerate their growth more effectively when they have clarity, accountability, and real support rather than just concepts” said Annette Patterson, President and Founder of The Advancement Foundation. “The Gauntlet and QUEST are designed to meet entrepreneurs where they are and help them take the next right step, faster and with confidence.” The Gauntlet is a cohort-based program serving new and existing businesses across retail, food and beverage, recreation, and service-based industries. The program emphasizes real-time implementation across core business areas, including business model development, operations, marketing and sales, and financial fundamentals. Participants complete the program with a customized business strategy, practical systems, and access to a powerful network of mentors and alumni. QUEST is an advanced, selective pathway for innovation-driven and scaling businesses. Limited to approximately 20 participants, QUEST pairs founders with dedicated Acceleration and Teams that provide hands-on coaching, a comprehensive business evaluation, and targeted support through critical growth decisions. Participants gain access to advanced resources, peer networks, and direct support from a customized group of industry leaders, expert advisors, and community partners. Together, the programs offer entrepreneurs a clear on-ramp into a cross-regional network of founders, mentors, higher education partners, and resource agencies, all aligned around the mission of strengthening local economies by supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. Entrepreneurs interested in participating in The Gauntlet or QUEST can begin by completing the Innovator / Entrepreneur Interest Form available on The Advancement Foundation’s website. For questions or additional information, contact Keely Massie at keely@theadvancementfoundation.org. About The Advancement Foundation The Advancement Foundation (TAF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening communities through entrepreneurship, innovation, and business growth. Through cohort-based programs, targeted acceleration services, and cross-regional partnerships, TAF supports entrepreneurs at every stage of business development across Virginia.

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