Growth Matters: Economic Development’s New Acting Director to Advance Strategic Direction for Virginia Beach and Development Authority

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 February 2026: 

Business & Community Updates

New Leadership: Emily Archer Appointed Acting Director 
Emily Archer was recently appointed as the acting director of Economic Development for the City of Virginia Beach. A veteran of the department’s leadership team with 11 years of service at the City, Archer most recently served as deputy director.

In her new role, Archer oversees strategic direction for the City and the Development Authority, managing multi-million-dollar capital projects and fostering public-private partnerships. With more than 20 years of experience, including past roles at AECOM and the Philadelphia City Planning Commission, she brings a wealth of expertise in urban design and master planning to our City’s future growth.  

Atlantic Avenue Grant Program Still Open!  
Virginia Beach Development Authority (VBDA) is still accepting applications for its Atlantic Avenue Grant (AAG) program. Businesses on Atlantic Avenue from 2nd to 40th streets can receive up to $25,000 in matching funds to enhance their facades. The AAG will have a lasting impact on local businesses, residents and the future of our coastal destination city. Visit yesvirginiabeach.com/aag to learn more. 

Empowering Workforce Leaders  
Virginia Beach Economic Development hosted more than 30 Hampton Roads leaders and workforce partners who gathered at The HIVE to discuss the evolving landscape of talent acquisition. 

Maxbyte Technologies 
Maxbyte Technologies is offering manufacturing and logistics companies a no-cost digital maturity and sustainability assessment to jump start their Industry 4.0/5.0 journey. The assessment helps factories understand their current capabilities, identify gaps, and develop a practical roadmap for adopting advanced technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainability best practices.  

By participating, companies can improve productivity, efficiency and competitiveness while driving innovation, better resource management, and long-term sustainable growth. Email Ihsane Mouak, imouak@vbgov.com, if interested. 

Available Resources

Upcoming Insights and Training Sessions 

• International Marketing Forum: Strategies for Engaging Global Audiences | April 15 
  Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) is hosting an interactive event that will bring together industry experts and local business leaders to share actionable insights on cost-effective international marketing, understanding global audiences, and building effective customer and distributor profiles. Reserve your spot online. 

VEDP Connects Virginia Businesses with Key International Markets 

• Trade Mission to Sweden & the Baltics | April 20-24
  Businesses can explore two dynamic regions offering strong opportunities for Virginia exporters. Sweden, the largest Nordic economy, saw Virginia exports grow nearly 45% last year. The Baltics — Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania — provide a strategic gateway to the European Union (EU) market, with growing demand in defense, information technology (IT) hand renewable energy. This mission offers direct access to decision-makers and insights into markets eager for U.S. partnerships. Register by Feb. 20.

InternshipsVA | Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Internships Virginia is a new statewide initiative led by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership designed to connect Virginia businesses with student talent. Launched in February 2026 with an annual state commitment of $14.5 million, the program aims to keep Virginia-educated students in the Commonwealth by facilitating high-quality, paid internship opportunities. Learn more about InternshipsVA.

Now Open: VWU’s Spring 2026 Professional Development Workshops 
Virginia Wesleyan University workshops are offered at no cost to Virginia Beach businesses and employees to strengthen their workforce and support growth. Many are offered in person at The HIVE. For more information and to register, visit vwu.edu/workshops. 

Site Opportunity: Property East of Oceana Boulevard 
VBED is seeking proposals for a 27.2-acre City-owned site east of Oceana Boulevard, zoned I-1 and located in APZ-1. Residential, public-assembly and food/beverage uses are not permitted. Compatible uses include light industrial, manufacturing, warehousing and related services. Submission deadline is 3 p.m. on March 6. Learn more about the property. 

Economic Development Investment Program 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 businesses. 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 the Economic Development team to learn more.   

The HIVE 
VBED offers many resources to connect residents with the information they need to grow or expand their businesses, including The HIVE small business resource center, located in Town Center. The HIVE offers expert consulting, training programs, mentorship, networking opportunities and office space. Follow The HIVE on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn for tips and resources to help your business thrive!    

• Become a HIVE Partner: VBED is always looking to partner with individuals and organizations who are passionate about supporting the local business community through training, mentorship and shared expertise. Learn more at The HIVE Pathways. 

Research Available Sites and Properties  
For a comprehensive look at available sites and properties in Virginia Beach, visit the VBED site selection page.

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

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