CBDX

Our Story

The CBDX was founded on June 4, 2009, in a small room at Strayer University within the Town Center of Virginia Beach. Co-Founders, Alex Divaris, Danijel Velicki, Stephen Pfeiffer and Erica Meekins Rorrer brought together a group of about 20 local, young professionals to discuss the idea of injecting a youthful presence into the Central Business District Association (CBDA).

The CBDA, having been formed in 1986, had reached one of its major goals in bringing mixed-use development to the central business district of Virginia Beach. As the organization began trying to shift its focus and reinvent itself to become a strong advocate for the area, they recognized the importance of involving more Generation X and Millennial professionals. The leaders from both the CBDA and the newly formed CBDX worked together to re-energize the organization with a new purpose and continuously evolving mission.

Today, the CBDX is heavily involved within the leadership of the CBDA, with numerous members being a part of its Board of Directors and serving on its Executive Committee. Our organization has grown to include over 100 members that participate in a variety of events throughout the year, including socials, athletic events, educational forums and meet-and-greets with local politicians. We proudly participate in a number of volunteer and fundraising activities for local charities, having raised more than $250,000 through our annual Casino Night fundraiser. Throughout our existence, we have not only excelled at cultivating innovative ideas and business relationships, but lifelong friendships, as well.