Our workspace, once a 100-year-old tobacco warehouse, is now a hub for innovation in Richmond’s Shockoe Bottom. Originally purchased by two of Startup Virginia’s founders, the goal was simple: create a signature space where startups could work, grow, and thrive together.

In March 2017, the building was acquired by Capital One, who shared the vision of investing in a space where inspiration, community, and innovation could intersect. A year later, Startup Virginia moved into the newly opened 1717 Innovation Center as the lead tenant, occupying the first three floors for educational programming, community events, private offices, and shared workspace for founders and innovators. Capital One’s support allowed Startup Virginia to start strong, shifting focus from renovation to building a strong incubator to support startups.

1717 is part of Capital One’s Impact initiative, designed to help communities succeed in the digital economy. Each of the six floors is themed after a Richmond neighborhood, including Scott’s Addition, Church Hill, The Fan, and Jackson Ward, honoring the city’s past while shaping its future. The building features conference rooms, office space, coworking areas, and a rooftop event space with skyline views of downtown Richmond.