Growth Matters: Local Businesses Expand in Virginia Beach

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 June:   

Business & Community Updates 

Neptune Shield Awarded $162,000 EDIP Grant to Expand Business Incubator in Virginia Beach 
VBED awarded a $162,681 Economic Development Investment Program (EDIP) grant to Neptune Shield, a tech incubator led by former Navy SEAL Nick Rocha. The funding will support the expansion and renovation of Neptune Shield’s facility in the Lynnhaven area, near Naval Air Station Oceana and Naval Station Norfolk.  

The project will expand the Mid-Atlantic Innovation Tech Hub, offering workspace, technical support and networking for U.S. and international startups developing advanced technologies that enhance national security. 

Commence Launches a New Era in Healthcare Tech in Virginia Beach 
A powerful new chapter in healthcare technology begins with the formation of Commence, a forward-thinking company established through the strategic collaboration of DOMA Technologies, Livanta, and Advanta Government Services.  

With deep local roots, decades of combined experience and a commitment to innovation, Commence has a national vision and represents a unified effort that will reimagine federal healthcare solutions.  

Drawing on the strengths and expertise of each partner, Commence brings a bold, data-driven and human-centered approach to solving inefficiencies in federal healthcare — delivering smarter solutions and greater value for taxpayers. Commence is set to become a catalyst for meaningful change in healthcare technology. 

ADS Breaks Ground on Major Warehouse Expansion in Virginia Beach 
ADS, a key supplier of equipment and logistics for the U.S. military, has begun construction on a 40,000-square-foot expansion of its Virginia Beach warehouse.  

The upgrade will increase capacity to fulfill large orders, streamline deliveries and military supply chains. The project will improve operations, where employees manage fulfillment, assembling and shipping kits to military clients around the world. 

Ventus Energy and RVT Group Join International Incubator in Virginia Beach 
Ventus Energy and RVT Group, both U.K.-based firms, have opened U.S. offices in Virginia Beach's International Incubator.  

Ventus Energy specializes in high-voltage engineering for offshore wind infrastructure, while RVT Group provides temporary environmental control and health protection solutions for industries including shipbuilding and defense.  

Their expansion highlights Virginia Beach's growing role as a hub for clean energy and advanced industrial solutions. 

Employment Opportunities 

757 Career Summit Empowers Job Seekers in Virginia Beach 
The second 757 Career Summit of 2025 took place June 4-5 at Naval Air Station Oceana, offering an alternative to the traditional career fair, designed to connect employers with transitioning service members. Maritime and defense employers from Virginia Beach engaged with candidates, aligning military experience with workforce needs. For a calendar of future hiring events, visit the Hampton Roads Workforce Council events calendar.  

Available Resources 

Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) Announces Fall Trade Missions to Global Markets 
VEDP invites Virginia businesses to join upcoming trade missions to Latin America, Europe, Australia and Southeast Asia. Each mission includes a $2,500 participation fee plus travel. Coming up soon: 

• Mexico: Sept. 22-26 | Register by July 25 
• Colombia: Oct. 20-24 | Register by Aug. 22 

For more information and upcoming missions, visit the VEDP events calendar. 

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.