In the heart of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, the town of Mount Jackson is quietly staging a revolution—one that blends entrepreneurial ambition with a hearty dose of small-town quirkiness. In this episode of “The Valley Today,” host Janet Michael sat down with Olivia Hilton, Mount Jackson’s dynamic town manager, to discuss how a business incubator program and a potato-themed festival are transforming the local landscape.

The conversation opens with Hilton, ever the multitasker, joining the call from her car before a class—a fitting metaphor for the hustle and adaptability that define both her leadership and the town’s approach to economic development. At the center of their discussion is the Mount Jackson Five, a business bootcamp and grant program designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality. Now in its second year, the program has already helped launch several successful businesses, thanks to a combination of state funding, local investment, and a supportive community.

“We gave out $60,000 in grant funding last year, and all four businesses we supported have opened their doors,” Hilton shares, her pride evident. This year, the program has expanded, with increased funding and a new twist: the creation of “The Nest,” a shared incubator space for businesses not yet ready for a brick-and-mortar location. “We learned that people are at different stages in their entrepreneurial journey,” Hilton explains. “The Nest gives them a place to grow before they take the leap.”

The program’s collaborative spirit is a key ingredient in its success. Rather than pitting participants against each other, the Mount Jackson Five fosters a sense of family, with group dinners and shared learning experiences. “It’s about recruiting, doing a little bit for retention, and then letting them fly,” Hilton says. The bootcamp covers everything from marketing and finance to zoning and signage, with local experts—including Janet—lending their knowledge.

But Mount Jackson’s renaissance isn’t just about business. It’s about community, and nothing embodies that better than TaterFest, the town’s annual celebration of all things potato. What began as a quirky idea has blossomed into a beloved event, drawing over 3,000 attendees last year. “People will always like quirky,” Hilton laughs. “And everyone likes carbs.” The festival features everything from a “couch potato” 5K and cow patty bingo to tater-themed tattoos and a mashed potato sculpting contest. Local businesses, farmers, and artisans all join in, making it a true showcase of the town’s creativity and camaraderie.

The festival’s success, like the business incubator, is rooted in partnerships. Building owners offer flexible leases and help with renovations, while local organizations pitch in with resources and expertise. “It just takes a little teamwork,” Hilton notes. The town even maintains an up-to-date inventory of available commercial spaces, making it easier for would-be entrepreneurs to find their perfect spot.

As the conversation winds down, it’s clear that Mount Jackson’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and joy. Whether it’s launching new businesses or celebrating with a potato pageant, the town is proving that economic development and community spirit can go hand in hand—and that sometimes, the best way to grow is to embrace your inner spud.