City of Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development Announces New International Incubator Tenant

The City of Virginia Beach Development Authority (VBDA) has approved a new tenant for the Virginia Beach International Incubator — Optii Corporation, an innovative photonics technology company headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.  

Optii, a top five global finalist at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, is advancing secure radio frequency communications and border-monitoring capabilities through electromagnetic-immune photonic technologies. Its lightweight, passive, radio frequency detection sensors — designed for fiber-optic drones’ platforms — enable emission identification without detection. As the company expands into the U.S. market, it is actively pursuing partnerships with defense organizations.

The Virginia Beach International Incubator supports international companies seeking low-risk expansion into the U.S. market. Located in Town Center and adjacent to the Department of Economic Development office, the Incubator accelerates entry into the U.S. by offering affordable office space, access to local experts, resources, and ongoing support from the city’s economic development professionals to help companies scale efficiently and increase long-term growth. 

“Virginia Beach is deeply committed to fostering international partnerships and supporting companies at every stage,” said Amanda Jarratt, Virginia Beach deputy city manager. “The International Incubator is an incredible asset to Virginia Beach and a dynamic space for businesses to grow, strengthen and establish deeper connections within our community. We welcome Optii Corporation to our community!” 

Daisy Williams, Optii CEO and founder, said: “We are incredibly excited to announce Optii Corporation’s official launch in Virginia Beach. Together with the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development, the Optii team is excited to expand our U.S. footprint in the Hampton Roads region, a globally recognized hub for defense innovation and military operations.”  

Hampton Roads is home to one of the most robust defense ecosystems in the United States. With a high concentration of military and federal assets, prime contractors and emerging tech companies, Virginia Beach provides direct access to Department of Defense customers, real-world testing environments across land, air and sea, and a deep veteran talent pipeline. The city’s pro-business environment and world-class digital infrastructure make it an ideal location for defense-focused companies aspiring to innovate and grow. 

“The Hampton Roads Alliance is pleased to congratulate Optii and the City of Virginia Beach on this announcement,” said Doug Smith, president and CEO of the Hampton Roads Alliance. “Optii’s decision to join the Virginia Beach International Incubator underscores the strength of the City’s business environment and the region’s momentum across the defense, energy, aerospace and logistics sectors. Its communications and sensor technologies align with the Hampton Roads playbook and reinforce our region as a hub for dual-use innovation. We are glad to support Virginia Beach in this effort and look forward to Optii’s success in Hampton Roads." 

About Virginia Beach & the Department of Economic Development 
Virginia Beach, one of Virginia’s most populous cities, resides where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. The mission of the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development is to drive economic vitality and inclusive prosperity in the city by fostering the attraction and creation of new investment, innovation, and jobs. www.yesvirginiabeach.com