Growth Matters: Economic Development Welcomes New Businesses to International Incubator

The Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development (VBED) is dedicated to creating a thriving economy by attracting new companies, supporting existing businesses and assisting entrepreneurs. Find out what projects VBED has been working on throughout March and April 2025:  

Business & Community Updates 

Virginia Beach International Incubator Welcomes New Tenants 
The Virginia Beach International Incubator has added two new tenants to its roster of international businesses seeking to expand into the U.S. market. 

• Gibb Group Medical & Rescue – A U.K.-based company providing support, education and equipment for the offshore wind industry. 
• Valtech Group – A Belgium-based network of technology firms specializing in engineering solutions to improve efficiency and environmental standards. 

ViDARR Inc. to Open Manufacturing Facility in Virginia Beach 
ViDARR Inc., will invest $2.69 million to open a 16,410-square-foot facility in Virginia Beach, creating 40 jobs. Specializing in night vision, thermal optics and autonomous systems, the defense manufacturer’s new facility will boost production and collaboration with local businesses.  

Governor Glenn Youngkin highlighted the investment’s significance for Virginia’s defense sector. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership is supporting job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.  

Virginia Beach Awards Grant to Atlantic Diving Supply for Expansion 
The Virginia Beach Development Authority awarded Atlantic Diving Supply (ADS) a $150,000 grant to support a 40,600-square-foot expansion. 

ADS has been recognized as one of Inc. 500’s Fastest-Growing Private Companies and a Top Workplace in Distribution for 2024. As a top federal contractor, securing $2 billion in government contracts, the expansion will enhance operations and logistics to meet rising demand. 

Façade Improvement Grants Awarded to 20 Local Businesses 
Twenty local, small businesses have won matching grants of up to $10,000 to improve their properties in Virginia Beach. 

The City of Virginia Beach Development Authority (VBDA) awarded the Façade Improvement Grants (FIG) to eligible Virginia Beach businesses to make exterior improvements to their buildings. 

For five years, this popular program has provided financial assistance to businesses and property owners for the improvement of commercial properties they own or rent. Since the program’s inception, VBDA has awarded $582,979 to 80 small businesses that have invested approximately $2.1 million in our community. 

Employment Opportunities 

Hampton Roads Regional Job Fair and Virginia Beach Application Fest 
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC) will host the Hampton Roads Regional Job Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, June 17, at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 E. Constance Road. 

As a lead-up to the event, HRWC is launching an Application Fest Tour across the region's 15 localities. The Application Fest tour is an innovative hiring event that will connect top talent with 50-60 employers. The tour will stop in Virginia Beach on Thursday, May 29, at the HIVE. 

Available Resources 

Economic Development Investment Program (EDIP) Grants for Qualifying Businesses 
The city’s Economic Development Investment Program (EDIP) is a discretionary incentive program with cash grants available to assist qualifying companies in growing their business. If you are a new or expanding business in the city, you may be eligible. 

The EDIP was established to support projects that create new jobs and capital investment in Virginia Beach. EDIP monies may be used for allowable infrastructure improvements and certain other project purposes, which will help to reduce the costs of relocating and expanding in our community. 

International Incubator Office Space 
The International Incubator is a soft-landing office space designed for international companies planning expansion into the U.S. market. Strategically located in Town Center and adjacent to the Economic Development office, the Incubator provides an ideal environment for growing businesses. Contact our team to learn more.  

Use Virginia SCAN to Research Available Sites and Properties 
For a comprehensive look at available sites and properties in Virginia Beach, visit Virginia SCAN, operated by Virginia Economic Development Partnership. 

To stay up to date on VBED’s latest project announcements and available resources, subscribe to Economic Development’s email newsletter.