When Andrew Morris moved from California to Tazewell, Virginia in 2024, he saw more than a new place to call home—he saw a need. The region faced a shortage of skilled contractors, leaving residents, particularly veterans and people with disabilities, struggling to find help for basic home modifications. With decades of hands-on experience in residential construction, Andrew founded Ardent Construction to fill that gap and provide reliable, quality workmanship to his new community.

“I wanted to create something meaningful,” he explained. “There’s a big need here for accessibility and integrity in construction. People should feel confident that their contractor will do the job right and treat them fairly.”

Ardent Construction focuses on residential improvements under a Class B general contractor license, specializing in accessibility projects such as wheelchair ramps and walk-in showers.

Andrew’s entrepreneurial path took shape when a contractor licensing course in Tazewell, referred him to the Southwest Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC). “I didn’t even know the SBDC existed,” he recalled. “Meeting Denise was a turning point.”

Through personalized advising, Denise helped Andrew develop a business plan, secure a Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority (VCEDA) seed capital grant, and connect with local economic development leaders. Those new relationships quickly paid off, opening new business opportunities and earning recognition within the community.

“It’s like having a silent partner who promotes your business with you,” Andrew said. “Denise helped me with everything—from business planning to finding a CPA. She’s been incredible.”