We always say Downtown Ashland is where community and creativity meet—and now it’s official! The Heart of Hanover Business Awards have crowned their first-ever winners, and our Downtown Ashland sponsors, supporters, and neighbors swept the honors!
This brand-new tradition celebrates the entrepreneurs, visionaries, and local champions who make Hanover County shine. Even better? These awards were entirely community-driven—nominated and voted on by the public, making each win a true reflection of local love and pride.
We’re thrilled to share that five of Downtown Ashland Association’s dedicated supporters took home top honors:
🏆 Destination Business of the Year: Ashland Theatre
A beloved anchor in the heart of our town, Ashland Theatre is more than a venue—it’s a community hub. Whether hosting DAA signature events like the Center Street Pitch Competition and Demystifying AI, or running our sponsor slides before films, the Theatre is always down to collaborate, educate, and inspire.
🎬 ashlandtheatre.org
🏆 Health & Wellness Business of the Year: Root Modern Dentistry
Modern smiles meet hometown charm at Root Modern Dentistry. You’ll spot their team out supporting Ashland Train Day and keeping our community connected through fresh social content and personalized care.
🦷 dentistashlandva.com
🏆 Manufacturer of the Coolest Thing Made in Hanover County: Center of the Universe Brewing Company
Cheers to Center of the Universe Brewing Co., longtime supporters of Ashland Saturday Soundtracks, the Ashland Song Contest, and the beautiful beers that bring our events together.
🍻 cotubrewing.com
🏆 Restaurant of the Year: The Caboose Market & Café
From fueling volunteers with coffee on Ashland Train Day to pouring the bubbly at the Toast of Downtown and New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball, The Caboose is a go-to gathering place for food, friendship, and celebration.
🍷 cabooseashland.com
🏆 Retail Business of the Year: Refunkit
It’s no surprise Refunkit captured this award—this vibrant shop is a cornerstone of Ashland’s creative economy. With ever-changing inventory, locally made art, and late hours during Ashland Fourth Fridays, Refunkit has built a loyal following and stands as a proud supporter of Ashland artists and events all year long.
🛍️ refunkit.com
At Downtown Ashland Association, we’re endlessly grateful for these businesses and all our partners who uplift the Center of the Universe year-round. Their generosity, innovation, and neighborly spirit help make Ashland a magnetic place to visit—and an even better place to call home.
To all the nominees and winners: you are the heartbeat of Hanover County. Thank you for building businesses with passion, purpose, and people in mind.
🎉 A huge thanks to the sponsors who made the Heart of Hanover Awards possible:
Title Sponsor: Hanover County Economic Development Authority
Heartbeat Sponsor: Luck Companies
And special thanks to our friends at the Richmond Times-Dispatch for sharing the love far and wide.
👏 Shout-out to Hanover County Government, the Town of Ashland, Hanover Chamber of Commerce, Hanover Education Foundation, and of course, YOU for nominating, voting, and showing up for local businesses.
Let’s keep the momentum going. Visit these award-winners, shop local, and share your support. Here’s to a future full of thriving businesses and celebrations right here in Downtown Ashland.