Transactions of the Virginia Growth and Opportunity Fund, First Quarter of the 2026 Fiscal Year
Summary
Letter dated October 31, 2025 from Maggie Beal, Interim DHCD Director, to Governor Glenn Youngkin and the chairs of the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee and the House Appropriations Committee, documenting first quarter 2026 fiscal year transactions of the Virginia Growth and Opportunity Fund. It states that a total of $276,400,000 in state general funds had been appropriated to the Fund as of September 30, 2025, and that the balance available for future commitments is $48,723,147.27. Nine (9) projects were funded during the quarter, totaling $2,807,087: four (4) administratively approved projects ($394,240) and five (5) approved by the GO Virginia State Board ($2,412,847). Appendices list the awarded projects, a full awards report and unobligated balances by region.
Summary drafted by a model from the document's text below and checked by script against that text before publication. It is a navigation aid, not a reading of what the document proves. Where AI is used
Cite this document
“Transactions of the Virginia Growth and Opportunity Fund, First Quarter of the 2026 Fiscal Year.”
Archived at Pandemic Darlings, https://pandemicdarlings.com/source-documents/2026-rd90-355864a69c/
, SHA-256 4582946baca05989a7e464fab53da0ef7c864fb7f60775cc886b3fd2127a7744.Full text
October 31, 2025
The Honorable Glenn Youngkin
Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia
Patrick Henry Building
Richmond, VA 23219
The Honorable Louise Lucas
Chair, Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee
201 North 9th Street, 13th Fl.
Richmond, VA 23219
The Honorable Luke E. Torian
Chair, House Appropriations Committee
201 North 9th Street, 13th Fl.
Richmond, VA 23219
Dear Governor Youngkin, Chair Lucas and Chair Torian,
I am writing to provide documentation of the transactions of the Virginia Growth and
Opportunity Fund, which have occurred during the first quarter of the 2026 fiscal year as
required in Item 103, N.6.a. of Chapter 725 of the 2025 Acts of Assembly Special Session I of
the budget bill.
As of September 30, 2025, a total of $276,400,000 in state general funds has been appropriated
to the Fund. At that time, the Cardinal Financial System reflected a cash balance of
$104,777,367.70. This includes $12,243,622.26 in earned interest. Funds obligated since the
inception of the Fund total $159,455,214.76 which includes $147,441,629.82 in project awards.
The total expenditures from the fund through September 30, 2025 was $115,644,043.56. The
balance available for future commitments is $48,723,147.27.
There were nine (9) projects funded during the first quarter of the 2026 fiscal year totaling
$2,807,087. This includes four (4) administratively approved projects ($394,240) and five (5)
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development | Partners for Better Communities
Main Street Centre | 600 East Main Street, Suite 300 Richmond, VA 23219
www.dhcd.virginia.gov | Phone (804) 371-7000 | Fax (804) 371-7090 | Virginia Relay 7-1-1
projects approved by the GO Virginia State Board ($2,412,847). A summary of the newly funded
projects is included in the attached document. You will also find an awards report detailing all
projects funded since the program’s inception, along with the current unobligated Per Capita
and Competitive Fund balances by region
Sincerely,
Maggie Beal
Interim DHCD Director
Cc The Honorable Juan Pablo Segura
Secretary of Commerce and Trade
Emily O’Quinn
Virginia Growth and Opportunity Board Chair
Appendices:
Appendix 1 - FY26Q1 GOVA Awarded Project Report
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 GOVA Project Awards Full Report
Appendix 3 - FY26Q1 GOVA Unobligated Balances by Region
Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development | Partners for Better Communities
Main Street Centre | 600 East Main Street, Suite 300 Richmond, VA 23219
www.dhcd.virginia.gov | Phone (804) 371-7000 | Fax (804) 371-7090 | Virginia Relay 7-1-1
Appendix 1 - FY26Q1 Awarded Project Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
New River Valley Regional Site Development and The New River Valley Regional Commission will partner with the participating localities to identify and evaluate 5 sites, one in each of the participating localities, as well as
2 NRV Site Advancement Strategy 2025 Regional Per Capita FY25 8/3/2025 $94,400 $108,479
Commission Infrastructure one regional commerce park. The 5 sites will be self-selected by the participating localities
Lynchburg Regional The Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance (LRBA) will expand the Lynchburg region’s workforce by attracting and retaining talent through the development of a
2 Say Yes to LYH Region Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY26 9/9/2025 $99,999 $50,000
Business Alliance web-based talent attraction and retention portal called SayYestoLYHRegion. The core of the project will be focused on the manufacturing sector.
Virginia’s Gateway Region, a Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO) covering the southern portion of GO Virginia Region 4, will identify and prioritize
VGR: Preparing the Region for Energy- Site Development and potential industrial sites for development within their footprint. The organization has added new localities in recent years, and has seen a shift in targeted end-users
4 Virginia's Gateway Region Regional Per Capita FY26 8/22/2025 $100,000 $50,000
Intensive Industry Infrastructure towards more energy-intensive industries. The project identify the top 10-20 sites which meet criteria for the target industry, and prioritize the top five to 10 sites for up-
tiering along VEDP’s Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) scale.
Start Up Virginia will expand its programming in GO Virginia Region 4. To do so, the organization will a three-pronged approach. First, stage-specific incubator
programming will help founders develop their business with tailored training relevant for the stage their firm is at. Second, Start Up Virginia will make its
Empowering Foudners Through Every
4 StartupVA Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY26 9/9/2025 $1,473,710 $737,112 programming more accessible by offering services at a new building in the Willow Lawn area of Henrico County, with the strong support of the Henrico County
Stage
Economic Development Authority. Thirdly, Start Up Virginia will provide capital access programming to founders, in order to help new founders raise the capital
needed to grow and expand.
The Hampton Roads Alliance (the regional economic development organization in Hampton Roads) requests GO Virginia funds to identify growth opportunities within a
number of the targeted industry sectors in the region. A previous phase of the project managed and funded by the Alliance and its partners identified what target industry
5 Hampton Roads Investment Playbook Hampton Roads Alliance Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 5/29/2025 $100,000 $50,000 sectors should be prioritized for study; this would conduct the analysis. This phase would look to develop seven to ten projects to grow the target industries and relevant
funding structures for the projects. The application notes that Hampton Roads has historically focused on end assembly of products; this project would focus on where the
region could expand opportunities to play a role in innovation and research earlier in processes. The Hampton Roads Workforce Council (the workforce board in the
region) is a partner in the project, contributing match and ensuring that the project proposals will align with regional workforce strategies.
Hampton Roads Advanced
5 FY26 9/9/2025 $669,783 $389,360 Genedge will expand collaborative robotic (COBOTIC) welding technology integration and training in GO Virginia Region 5. Currently, the organization offers these services
Manufacturing Modernization with GENEDGE Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up
to larger shipyards and affiliates in the region through funding from the National Shipbuilding Research Program. This project will broaden access to small and medium-
Emerging Robotics (HAMMER) Program
sized manufacturers by providing COBOTIC integration assistance, support in developing weld-quality procedures, and guidance on accessing capital equipment funding.
Middlesex County will develop an initial summary of the state of the Blue Catfish industries, including harvesters, processors, and wholesale/retail sales;
River to Table - Blue Catfish Processing identifying options, priorities, and estimates of costs for actionable recommendations to scale up this industry. Additionally, the study will provide an asset map
6 and Marketing Study for the Northern Middlesex County Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY26 8/3/2025 $99,840 $62,590 for existing and potential industry related infrastructure, including ramps/landings, transportation/storage, processing (filets and by products), manufacturing
Neck and Middle Peninsula for non-food uses, and retail/wholesale/restaurants. Recommendations would address landings, cold storage, processing costs and how demand could be
improved and be met by products produced within these regions.
Rockbridge County Public Rockbridge County Public Schools will establish a robust Cybersecurity Program designed to build a pipeline of workforce-ready graduates prepared for high-demand fields
8 Cybersecurity Dual Enrollment Program Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY26 9/9/2025 $38,227 $20,000
Schools in information technology and emerging technologies. In partnership with Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC), the program will offer industry-recognized
certifications and hands-on technical training.
Rockbridge Advanced Manufacturing Rockbridge County Public Rockbridge County Public Schools will ensure high school students at the local technical center graduate with the certifications, skills, and experiences necessary
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY26 9/9/2025 $131,128 $71,000
Workforce Development Schools for immediate employment and continued education.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Ignite Internships project seeks to broaden the reach of the Ignite Program throughout the Region One area by strategically aligning school curriculums with
the specific needs of local employers. UWSWVA will engage with key industry associations across a variety of targeted sectors, ensuring that the partnership
reflects the current job market and anticipated skills gaps. As part of this initiative, a comprehensive web-based platform was developed and designed to
United Way of Southwest
1 Ignite Internships Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 4/10/2018 $250,000 $618,482 evaluate student skills through a series of tailored assessments. This platform will serve as a vital resource in matching students with relevant work-based
Virginia
learning opportunities in their fields of interest. By connecting students with these experiences, the project aims to enhance their practical skills, improve their
employability, and foster a smoother transition from education to the workforce. The United Way of Southwest Virginia is committed to placing 120 interns in
meaningful roles with at least 40 different companies because of this project.
The Southwest Virginia Technology Council (SWVTC) has successfully completed the initial development of the HubLink platform, a dedicated online resource
designed to connect job seekers with a wide range of technology-related job and training opportunities. This innovative platform aims to bridge the gap
Southwest Virginia between skilled workers and employers seeking talent in the technology sector. SWVTC actively engages with local stakeholders, including businesses,
1 SWVTC Hub Link Technology Council Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 8/14/2018 $27,547 $27,637 educational institutions, and community organizations, to gather insights and feedback. Additionally, the Region One Council has conducted a comprehensive
(SWVTC) inventory of all technology training programs available in the region, ensuring that job seekers have access to up-to-date information and resources to enhance
their skills. By fostering collaboration among various entities, SWVTC aims to create a robust ecosystem that supports workforce development and addresses
the growing demand for technology professionals in Southwest Virginia.
The Coal-to-Graphene market study conducted by Region One provided a comprehensive initial analysis of both the environmental impacts and the financial
projections associated with developing a sustainable graphene economy in the region of Southwest Virginia. This innovative research highlights the potential for
1 Coal-to-Graphene Study Virginia Tech Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 12/11/2018 $25,000 $25,000 transforming local coal resources into valuable graphene, a material renowned for its remarkable strength and conductivity. Virginia Tech’s Institute of Critical
Technology and Applied Science has pioneered a groundbreaking manufacturing process that allows for the production of graphene from coal at a significantly
reduced cost, positioning Southwest Virginia as a leader in this emerging industry.
The Smart Farming program at the Center for Workforce Innovation in Region 1 expands its unmanned systems coursework by introducing two new capstone
courses focused on smart farming and technology use in agriculture. These courses aim to improve farming techniques, increase crop yields, and maximize
Mountain Empire
1 Smart Farming Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 3/12/2019 $310,372 $380,500 profits in the agricultural sector. The Mountain Empire Community College (MECC) will allow students to earn national credentials in FAA drone operations,
Community College (MECC)
agrarian inspections, and pesticide spraying at the new Center for Workforce & Innovation of Appalachia (CWIA). Additionally, MECC will be the first institution
in Virginia to offer an Associate Degree (AAS) in Unmanned Aerial Systems.
The Solar Playbook for Southwest Virginia (SWVA) Project, spearheaded by Appalachian Voices, is a comprehensive collaborative planning initiative coupled
with an extensive market study. This project meticulously identifies targeted pathways for substantial investments in large-scale solar energy development on
1 Solar Playbook for SWVA Appalachian Voices Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 6/24/2019 $70,947 $70,947
previously mined lands. Additionally, it aims to uncover high-paying employment opportunities for the local workforce in Southwest Virginia, paving the way for
a sustainable energy future while revitalizing the region's economy..
The LENOWISCO Planning District Commission has established a new coordinator position aimed at enhancing the mission of the Regional Industrial Facility
Authority (RIFA). This authority is responsible for supporting economic development initiatives across the counties of Lee, Scott, Wise, and Dickenson, as well as
LENOWISCO Planning Site Development and the City of Norton. The primary role of the coordinator will be to formalize RIFA's organizational structure, ensuring clear roles and responsibilities among its
1 Lonesome Pine RIFA Coordinator Regional Per Capita FY18 6/24/2019 $50,000 $50,000
District Commission Infrastructure members. Additionally, the coordinator will continue and expand discussions surrounding tax revenue sharing, a critical aspect that can foster regional
collaboration and enhance funding for local projects. Another key responsibility will be to identify and coordinate funding opportunities available to the region,
which will support various economic development initiatives and help drive sustainable growth in the communities served by RIFA.
The LENOWISCO Planning District Commission engaged in a strategic partnership with InvestSWVA, Coalfield Strategies LLC, the Virginia Department of Mines,
Minerals, and Energy (DMME), and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) to identify and assess suitable locations within the region for the
establishment of data centers. This comprehensive study generated several critical deliverables. 1) The development of analytical tools designed to assess and
prioritize the availability of essential infrastructure, including power supply and fiber optic networks, and the feasibility of mine pool water reclamation as an
LENOWISCO Planning Site Development and
1 Project Oasis Regional Per Capita FY18 9/10/2019 $50,000 $50,000 innovative cooling solution. 2) A preliminary engineering feasibility study that evaluates the technical and logistical aspects of potential data center sites,
District Commission Infrastructure
ensuring they meet the necessary criteria for operation. 3) A thorough market analysis that examines regional demand, competitive landscapes, and key data
center development trends provides insight into the economic viability of such projects. 4) In-depth research focused on identifying potential users of the data
centers, ensuring that the facilities align with market needs and business opportunities. 5) A conceptual design for prospective data center sites, detailing
architectural and infrastructural elements that cater to requirements while considering sustainability and community impact.
Opportunity SWVA and UVA-Wise are joining forces to develop the Launch SWVA Region 1 Strategy for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Investment. This
initiative creates a comprehensive action plan that not only builds upon the insights and recommendations outlined in the TEConomy report but also tailors
1 Region 1 REI Coordinating Entity Opportunity SWVA Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 12/9/2019 $80,000 $40,000 strategies specifically for the unique needs of Region 1. By leveraging local resources and expertise, the Innovation Investment plan will identify key areas for
growth and investment in entrepreneurship, fostering a more robust ecosystem that encourages innovation and supports local businesses. Through targeted
actions and stakeholder engagement, this initiative seeks to drive economic development and enhance the entrepreneurial landscape in the region.
Project Energizer aims to identify and develop prime locations for small-scale, modular pumped-storage hydropower projects in Region One, Southwest
Virginia. This initiative involves a comprehensive assessment of geographical and environmental factors to ensure the efficient implementation of renewable
LENOWISCO Planning Site Development and
1 Project Energizer Regional Per Capita FY19 4/17/2020 $50,000 $50,000 energy solutions. By focusing on modular technology, the project seeks to enhance energy storage capabilities while promoting sustainability in the region.
District Commission Infrastructure
Through careful planning and community engagement, Project Energizer will facilitate the transition to cleaner energy sources while supporting local economies
and providing reliable power for the future.
Project Innovation is proudly establishing the Southwest Virginia Energy Park, a vibrant hub where visionary companies can explore, refine, and bring to life
groundbreaking ideas in energy technology. LENWISCO PDC will engage two dedicated consulting teams to embark on this transformative journey. The first
LENOWISCO Planning Site Development and
1 Project Innovation Regional Per Capita FY19 4/17/2020 $100,000 $150,000 team will meticulously assess over 100,000 acres of reclaimed surface-mined land along with its adjacent underground mines, unlocking new possibilities for
District Commission Infrastructure
sustainable development. Meanwhile, the second team will craft a dynamic governance model, design an inspiring layout for the Park, and develop a
comprehensive plan that ensures both an impactful startup and enduring sustainability.
The Virginia Tech Cooperative Extension established a new project manager position to drive and coordinate business development initiatives within the
agricultural sector. This role will be instrumental in implementing the recently completed Agricultural Action Plan, which outlines key strategies for enhancing
SWVA Regional Agribusiness Virginia Tech Cooperative
1 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY19 4/17/2020 $100,000 $100,000 the sector's sustainability and economic viability. The project manager will specifically focus on supporting the growth and development of the beef cattle, small
Opportunities Extension
grain, and craft beverage industries, fostering collaboration among stakeholders, and identifying new opportunities for innovation and expansion within these
fields. By advancing these initiatives, the project manager aims to strengthen local agriculture and contribute positively to the region's economy.
The Farmer Pipeline: Maintaining the Supply Chain by Empowering Farmers in Region One is designed to support small farmers impacted by COVID-19. This
Farmer Pipeline: Maintaining the Supply Appalachian Sustainable project introduces a platform aimed at enhancing wholesale logistics for the Appalachian Harvest Food Hub. Additionally, it emphasizes the launch of a training
1 Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/16/2020 $99,996 $51,076
Chain by Growing Farmers Development platform, the implementation of technology to improve production efficiency, the creation of an online marketplace to connect institutional buyers and
consumers directly, and the deployment of project management software for better support.
The Perseverance Project enhances the efforts of Virginia’s Industrial Advancement Alliance (VIAA) in business retention and expansion by offering financial
Virginia's Industrial
1 Perseverance Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/16/2020 $100,000 $52,500 resources to help companies mitigate the negative impacts of COVID-19 on the manufacturing sector in Region 1. VIAA will deliver essential business operations
Advancement Alliance
and evaluation services to support key sector companies in their recovery, transition, and process improvement.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The "Retooling Manufacturers for Strategic Industries" in Region One initiative is designed to significantly enhance the capabilities of existing suppliers,
empowering them to develop sustainable and long-term revenue streams within the fields of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and essential medical
Retooling Manufacturers for Strategic supplies. In addition to mitigating supply gaps, the project emphasizes the importance of establishing a comprehensive supply network rooted in Virginia. This
1 GENEDGE Statewide ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/23/2020 $2,950,000 $1,475,000
Industries network aims not only to streamline local production but also to ensure rapid and efficient responses to potential future outbreaks of the COVID-19 virus or
similar health emergencies. The initiative includes training programs for manufacturers, investment in advanced manufacturing technologies, and collaboration
with public health officials to align production capabilities with community needs.
The Lonesome Pine Regional Industrial Facility Authority (RIFA) Project Intersection is embarking on an initiative to establish a dedicated coordinator position
aimed at enhancing the mission and effectiveness of RIFA. This authority plays a pivotal role in facilitating economic development across key areas, including
Lee, Scott, Wise, and Dickenson counties, in addition to the City of Norton. The newly appointed coordinator will be instrumental in formalizing the
Lonesome Pine RIFA Project LENOWISCO Planning Site Development and organizational structure of RIFA, ensuring clarity in roles and responsibilities within the entity. This role will also involve steering and expanding critical
1 Regional Per Capita FY19 9/22/2020 $485,000 $1,417,400
Intersection District Commission Infrastructure discussions regarding tax revenue sharing among member jurisdictions, which is essential for fostering collaborative economic growth. Additionally, the
coordinator will serve as a liaison, working closely with other RIFAs throughout the region to identify best practices and potential areas for partnership. Another
key responsibility will be the exploration and identification of funding opportunities, which could provide vital financial resources to support various economic
initiatives and development projects within the region.
The Ignite Tech Talent Pipeline aims to develop a strong talent pipeline that increases the number of graduates from high school, community colleges, and
universities who are prepared to work in information technology (IT) jobs in the region. This initiative is designed to meet the projected 10-year demand for IT
United Way of Southwest
1 Ignite Tech Talent Pipeline Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 9/22/2020 $251,960 $251,960 workers in Region 1, which estimates a need for 1,386 new workers. The first phase of the project will last one year and will focus on discovery. This will involve
Virginia
assessing the capacity of schools to create pathways to IT careers, evaluating student interest in these careers, and looking into current employer activities.
Additionally, we will analyze the demand for specific skills, certifications, and degrees required for entry-level positions.
The Digital Lab at the William King Museum of Art (WKMA) offers educational opportunities for high school students and adult learners in Southwest Virginia to
gain proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects. Additionally, the Digital Lab provides graphic design training and
William King Museum of Art - Digital
1 William Kind Museum of Art Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 9/22/2020 $70,910 $75,735 access to and instruction on using high-quality inkjet printers, 3D printing, and laser cutting. These learning opportunities prepare students for careers in
Workforce Development
creative digital fields such as photography, videography, graphic design, digital illustration, animation, web design, social media, and 3D product design. Skills in
these areas are highly valued across various industries.
Appalachian Natural Gas has successfully completed the installation of 19,591 feet of natural gas line extension to Wildwood Commerce Park. This significant
project enhances the energy infrastructure of the industrial park by delivering natural gas at a pressure of 55 psi, with the option to increase to 100 psi to
Site Development and
1 Wildwood Natural Gas Extension Blue Ridge Crossroads EDA Regional Per Capita FY20 12/7/2020 $527,600 $320,684 accommodate the diverse needs of industrial customers. The newly extended gas line not only improves the availability of natural gas but also positions
Infrastructure
Wildwood Commerce Park as an attractive destination for businesses that rely on this essential utility for their operations. With approximately 125 acres of land
in the park now graded and prepared for development, there are ample opportunities for tenants to establish their operations in this prime location.
The Energy Storage and Electrification Manufacturing Jobs Project is designed to stimulate job creation in Region One while also drawing in new investments
and broadening the local tax base. This comprehensive initiative will unfold in three distinct phases. In the first phase, we will conduct targeted technical analysis
to identify specific needs and opportunities within the local economy. This analysis will help us understand the strengths and challenges faced by current
Energy Storage & Electrification regional companies in the energy storage and electrification sectors. The second phase will involve strategic outreach and planning. During this stage, we will
1 Appalachian Voices Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 3/16/2021 $486,366 $245,000
Manufacturing Jobs engage with local stakeholders, businesses, and community leaders to gather insights and foster collaboration. This collective effort will guide the development
of tailored strategies that not only support existing businesses but also attract new companies to the region. Finally, in the implementation phase, we will
execute the plans developed in the previous stages. This may include providing resources, training programs, and incentives aimed at enhancing the capabilities
of four key regional companies.
GROWTH: The Business of Agriculture in Southwest Virginia has successfully completed a comprehensive feasibility study aimed at establishing an Innovation
Hub dedicated to advancing agricultural initiatives. This hub is designed to bolster ongoing education in agricultural entrepreneurship through a diverse range of
customized programs tailored specifically to the needs of the local community. The primary objective of the Innovation Hub is to drive workforce growth within
GROW(TH): The Business of Agriculture
1 Emory & Henry College Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY21 4/21/2021 $52,950 $26,500 the agricultural sector, fostering a skilled labor pool that can adapt to the evolving demands of the industry. By creating a supportive environment, the hub
in SWVA
seeks to instill a culture of opportunity that encourages individuals to pursue careers in agriculture and related fields. Through this initiative, Southwest Virginia
aspires to be a leader in agricultural entrepreneurship, cultivating a vibrant community that thrives on creativity, collaboration, and growth within the
agricultural sector.
Project Thoroughbred aims to strengthen the capacity of local farmers by providing training and resources that enhance their skills and knowledge. By boosting
farmers' capabilities, the initiative seeks to instill greater confidence in the local market's ability to consistently meet high-quality specifications for agricultural
1 Project Thoroughbred InvestSWVA Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 4/21/2021 $100,000 $100,000 products. The project also focuses on creating a diverse range of products that cater to various market demands, thereby enriching the agricultural landscape of
the region. Importantly, this initiative also represents a significant step toward generating employment opportunities for graduates from the grain management
program that is currently in development at Mountain Empire Community College.
Project Fuse in Region One has developed an innovative business retention and recruitment tool designed specifically for economic developers. This tool aims
to enhance the promotion of telework employment strategies within the Lonesome Pine RIFA (Regional Industrial Facilities Authority) territory. By leveraging
1 Project Fuse Lonesome Pine RIFA Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 4/21/2021 $70,000 $35,000 this resource, economic developers can strategically attract remote work opportunities, thereby fostering local economic growth and adapting to the evolving
job market. The tool provides valuable insights and resources that support businesses in transitioning to telework models, ultimately helping to sustain and
expand the workforce in the region.
ACI Business Continuity and Resiliency offers Region One a comprehensive suite of information and resources designed to enhance understanding of Business
Appalachian Council for Continuity and Resilience. This program emphasizes the critical role these concepts play in ensuring business survival and stability during times of crisis. By
1 ACI Business Continuity and Resiliency Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/8/2021 $68,500 $34,500
Innovation providing practical tools, expert insights, and best practices, ACI equips organizations with the necessary strategies to effectively prepare for, respond to, and
recover from disruptions, thereby safeguarding their operations and minimizing potential losses.
The SWVA Startup Program is dedicated to transforming 1% of the population in Southwest Virginia into successful entrepreneurs by the year 2027. This
initiative will provide aspiring business owners with access to a comprehensive ecosystem that includes resources such as mentorship, funding opportunities,
1 SWVA Startup Program UVA-Wise Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY21 6/15/2021 $290,850 $145,425 and training programs. Additionally, the program will focus on supporting businesses that have the potential for growth and scalability, ensuring that these
entrepreneurs can thrive and contribute to the local economy. By fostering innovation and providing the necessary tools for success, the SWVA Startup
Program aims to create a vibrant entrepreneurial community in the region.es.
Project Veer conducted a comprehensive market analysis to evaluate the potential opportunities available for manufacturers in Region One to actively
participate in both the onshore and offshore wind supply chain. This analysis aimed to identify key trends, assess competitive advantages, and explore the
1 Project Veer InvestSWVA Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 10/15/2021 $49,750 $24,875 specific needs of the renewable energy sector. By examining factors such as local manufacturing capabilities, supply chain logistics, and regulatory
environments, the study provides valuable insights that can guide manufacturers in positioning themselves effectively within the burgeoning wind energy
market.
Mobilizing the Supply Chain with Critical Infrastructure in Region One is designed to strengthen the local food supply chain and address specific unmet needs
within the community. This initiative focuses on enhancing the Appalachian Harvest Food Hub, which will be outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment and
Mobilizing the Supply Chain with Appalachian Sustainable
1 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 12/15/2021 $212,200 $106,624 adequate space to efficiently process fresh produce. By investing in this facility, we aim to improve food accessibility, reduce waste, and support local farmers,
Critical Infrastructure Development
ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and resilient food system in the region.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Pathway Park Infrastructure Improvements project in the Smyth County Region 1 boosts economic development by extending essential water and sewer
lines directly to Pathway Park. In addition to the utility enhancements, the project includes comprehensive site preparation for a proposed speculative building,
Site Development and which will serve as a versatile space for potential businesses. Furthermore, the creation of a Redevelopment and Improvement Financing Authority (RIFA)
1 Pathway Park Infrastructure Smyth County EDA Regional Per Capita FY22 12/15/2021 $600,000 $300,000
Infrastructure between Smyth County and Bland County, as well as possibly involving other nearby localities, will facilitate the strategic marketing of the property. This
initiative is designed to attract manufacturing and distribution centers, ultimately fostering regional growth and job creation. Building and forming RIFA between
Smyth and Bland Counties (and possibly other localities) will allow the RIFA to market the property for manufacturing and distribution centers competitively.
Make It Here connects manufacturers with students who are participating in relevant education and training programs that will ultimately lead to employment
Mount Rogers Regional in the manufacturing sector. The MRRP will provide staffing and resources to launch a pilot program aimed at retaining and attracting regional talent. GO
1 Make It Here Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 4/19/2022 $90,000 $45,000
Partnership Virginia funds will be utilized for staffing and planning capacity. The Talent Solution Team will be responsible for developing a long-term plan to address talent
retention and targeted training needs. This project is designed to inform a future implementation initiative that will execute the initiatives identified in the plan.
GO TEC Region One is excited to introduce the innovative GO TEC Career Connections labs at three key locations: Carroll County Middle School, Grayson County
Middle School, and a middle school in Wythe County Public Schools. These labs are designed to provide students with hands-on learning experiences that
Carroll County Public connect classroom knowledge to real-world career opportunities. Serving as pilot sites, they will help refine the program and pave the way for broader
1 GO TEC Region 1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 4/21/2022 $308,924 $154,462
Schools implementation across Region One. This initiative will be carried out in close collaboration with GO TEC in Region Three, ensuring that students receive the most
relevant and engaging career education. The partnership aims to prepare students for successful futures by enhancing their skills and knowledge in various
career pathways.
Mountain Empire Community College's Project WELD is developing a comprehensive welding certification program through a strategic collaboration involving
MECC, the Virginia Department of Corrections at the Wise Correctional Unit, and regional manufacturing employers. This program aims to address the critical
Mountain Empire Community College Mountain Empire workforce shortage of entry-level welders in the area. By leveraging the educational expertise of MECC alongside the rehabilitative capabilities of the
1 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 4/21/2022 $101,025 $50,730
Project WELD Community College (MECC) Department of Corrections, the initiative provides inmates with valuable skills and training needed for a successful career in welding. The program will include
hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and job placement assistance, ensuring participants are well-prepared to meet the demands of local
manufacturing employers upon their release.
The United Way of Southwest Virginia is actively working to support local manufacturers in addressing their workforce shortages. To increase the labor force
United Way of Southwest Virginia - participation rate in the region, they are initiating a comprehensive pilot program designed to bolster the childcare industry. This program aims to expand the
United Way of Southwest
1 Employee Sponsored Healthcare Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/14/2022 $269,406 $134,703 availability and capacity of childcare services, making it easier for parents to return to work. Additionally, it will tackle the financial barriers associated with
Virginia
Benefit, 2022 childcare costs by creating an employer-sponsored benefit, allowing businesses to provide essential support for their employees. This initiative not only helps
manufacturers fill open positions but also contributes to the overall economic growth and stability of the community.
SMR Site Feasibility issued a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to expedite the selection of independent subject matter experts (SMEs) to examine the feasibility
of developing multiple Small Modular Reactor (SMR) site locations within the Lonesome Pine Regional Industrial Facilities Authority (LPRIFA) geographic
LENOWISCO Planning Site Development and
1 SMR Site Feasibility Regional Per Capita FY22 10/13/2022 $100,000 $50,000 footprint. The LENOWISCO PDC seeks to recruit the siting and development of SMRs within the LPRIFA geographic footprint. SMRs have capital-intensive
District Commission Infrastructure
investments from developer(s) with projected long-term life cycles of over 40 years. SMRs are new, cutting-edge licensed technologies that are small nuclear
power plants of up to 300 MW. These SMR plants can generate electricity on a 24/7 basis and are reliable, zero-carbon generators.
SMR Supply Chain Analysis prepares the SWVA economy for future investments in a Small Modular Reactor (SMR) energy-focused ecosystem. The LENOWISCO
LENOWISCO Planning Planning District Commission, in partnership with Lonesome Pine RIFA, will release a Request for Proposals (RFP) designed to procure the services of a Subject
1 SMR Supply Chain Analysis Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 1/24/2023 $50,000 $25,000
District Commission Matter Expert (SME) who will play a crucial role in preparing a Regional SMR Manufacturing Supply Chain Report. This report will be utilized to identify existing
businesses for retooling and recruit new companies, providing the baseline for manufacturing jobs needed to support the SMR supply chain.
Virtual Reality for Training and Career Exploration addresses the education gap in high school CTE educational programs. This project is a planning process to
conduct a needs assessment, complete a feasibility study, and provide an action plan for implementing virtual reality curriculum in high school career and
Virtual Reality for Training and Career Mount Rogers Regional technical education programs in partnership with GO TEC. The needs assessment will analyze the necessity of engaging students at the beginning of their high
1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 7/21/2023 $50,000 $25,000
Exploration Partnership school careers, where CTE opportunities are limited. The feasibility study will evaluate if virtual reality is the appropriate learning tool for high school students
and if the program is sustainable. The action plan will provide implementation steps to continue the career pathways for students from middle school to high
school and beyond to credentialing, higher education institutions, and careers.
GO Tec Expansion increases the pool of qualified candidates in the Advanced Manufacturing, Agriculture/Food and Beverage Manufacturing, and Information
and Emerging Technologies clusters. The project will add six new career connection labs, one in each participating locality. These labs will be constructed in nine
United Way of Southwest Virginia GO United Way of Southwest
1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 9/12/2023 $600,055 $366,845 individual career pathway modules all utilizing the GO TEC career connection labs framework: 1) Agriculture – Biotechnology Agriculture and Food Production,
TEC Expansion Virginia
2) Automation & Robotics, 3) Electrical Engineering, 4) Information Technology, Coding, and Cybersecurity, 5) Metrology, 6) Precision Machining, and 8)
Mechanical Engineering.
The ACI Talent Pathways Initiative in Region One employs a comprehensive model to enhance workforce development. As part of this initiative, ACI will engage
GENEDGE Alliance under a formal contract. GENEDGE will collaborate closely with key organizations, including the Southwest Virginia Alliance for
Appalachian Council for
1 ACI Talent Pathways Initiative Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 12/12/2023 $250,000 $125,000 Manufacturing and the Appalachian Council of Business Leaders, to form a dedicated core team responsible for directing the planning phase of the initiative.
Innovation
This core team will play a vital role in gathering insights and perspectives from local stakeholders by organizing a minimum of ten roundtable discussions
throughout the Region One.
ASD Agriculture Campus has taken a proactive step by hiring contract consultants to develop a comprehensive business and marketing plan, conduct a thorough
economic impact analysis, and provide foundational architectural and engineering planning. These initiatives are designed to significantly enhance the
Appalachain Sustainable organization's capacity to deliver effective workforce training programs, offer valuable agricultural expertise, and furnish essential resources to small farmers.
1 ASD Agriculture Campus Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY24 1/16/2024 $25,000 $25,000
Development By doing so, the campus aims to empower these farmers to expand their market access and improve their competitiveness. Moreover, the detailed plans will
also support businesses that are seeking access to capital, ultimately facilitating their growth and expansion efforts. This strategic approach not only bolsters the
local agricultural economy but also promotes sustainable practices and community development.
The MRRP Site Selection Identification and Evaluation project in 2024 collaborated with a consulting team to gather site data, perform GIS analysis, and conduct
fieldwork. The goal was to identify 20 to 30 sites, each ranging from 50 to 100 acres, that may be suitable for future development. After these sites are
MRRP Site Selection Identification and Mount Rogers Regional Site Development and
1 Regional Per Capita FY24 1/16/2024 $100,000 $50,000 identified, further studies will be conducted to determine the 10 most suitable locations for future growth. Once the top 10 sites are selected, they will be
Evaluation, 2024 Partnership Infrastructure
presented to local authorities for prioritization. MRRP will support these localities in applying for funding opportunities for future site development and strategic
planning, which may include the establishment of Regional Industrial Facilities Authorities.
WiseLink has hired contract consultants in Wise County to create a preliminary report on transmission planning strategies. This report will help determine the
necessary resources to significantly strengthen the electric power grid in the region. The planning effort will support an upcoming application to the U.S.
Site Development and
1 WiseLink Wise County Regional Per Capita FY24 3/27/2024 $99,482 $55,639 Department of Energy, aimed at connecting the region with large power providers capable of increasing gigawatt availability for local land developers. As a
Infrastructure
result, the project will significantly enhance capacity, making land in the area more attractive to companies with high electrical demands, such as data centers.
The final deliverable will be an executive summary of the report, as it is necessary to protect proprietary information covered by Non-Disclosure Agreements.
The GO TEC Second Expansion will introduce five new career connection labs, with one located in each participating locality. These labs will be designed around
United Way of Southwest Virginia GO United Way of Southwest eight career pathway modules, following the GO TEC career connection labs framework. The modules include: 1) Agriculture – Biotechnology, Agriculture, and
1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 6/4/2024 $491,197 $496,871
TEC Expansion 2 Virginia Food Production; 2) Automation & Robotics; 3) Electrical Engineering; 4) Information Technology, Coding, and Cybersecurity; 5) Metrology; 6) Precision
Machining; 7) Precision Agriculture; and 8) Mechanical Engineering.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Blue Ridge Crossroads Economic Development Authority seeks to complete initial due diligence reports and assessments for Wildwood Commerce Park Site
Wildwood Commerce Park Site 1 Due Site Development and 1, which is the lone available site on the Wildwood property that must be developed. Option agreements on the other sites on the Wildwood property make
1 Blue Ridge Crossroads Regional Per Capita FY25 8/28/2024 $100,000 $50,000
Diligence Infrastructure Site 1 the only developable tract of land available. The site, which is 105 total acres with 50 developable acres, is anticipated to be eligible for future VBRSP
funding after initial due diligence assessments have been completed.
The Joint Industrial Development Authority (IDA) of Wythe County is focused on enhancing the site readiness of Lot 10 located in Progress Park, an established
industrial development area. This initiative aims to capitalize on previous investments made in creating functional industrial sites within the park. By developing
Site Development and
1 Progress Park Lot 10 Wythe County IDA Regional Per Capita FY25 9/10/2024 $425,876 $213,000 Lot 10, the IDA will facilitate the efficient use of existing infrastructure, which includes essential services such as water, sewer, gas, electric, telecommunications,
Infrastructure
and transportation networks. This strategic approach is expected to significantly reduce the time required for businesses to establish operations, thereby
promoting economic growth and attracting new industries to the area.
Middle School Energy Education increases the pool of qualified workers in the Energy and Minerals industry sector in GO Virginia Region 1. The Southwest
Middle School Energy Education Southwest Virginia Higher Virginia Higher Education Center, in partnership with Virginia Tech’s Southwest Center, will conduct research activities such as exploring career pathways,
1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 10/15/2024 $52,500 $26,250
Academy Education Center identifying benchmark data, and determining best practices for curriculum to develop a middle school program focused on career exploration for the energy
sector. These activities will lead to a pilot summer career exploration academy.
The Virginia Small Business Disaster Response is launching an innovative web-based portal to consolidate disaster recovery resources for businesses in
Southwest Virginia. This platform is specifically designed to assist businesses in navigating the recovery process following the impacts of Tropical Storm Helene.
VA Small Business Disaster Response
1 PBS Appalachia HBRI Cluster Scale-Up FY25 10/29/2024 $97,500 $48,750 PBS Appalachia will take the lead in developing and marketing this comprehensive resource portal. By connecting local businesses with various essential
Portal
resources and services—including financial assistance, technical support, and community programs—the portal aims to facilitate a quicker and more efficient
recovery process for those affected by the natural disaster.
Virginia Highlands Community College, in collaboration with local industry partners and community stakeholders, is proposing a strategic initiative to purchase
state-of-the-art equipment to modernize the Associate of Electrical Technology program. Two primary objectives drive this initiative. The first objective is
acquiring updated equipment; the program will provide students with hands-on experience using technology that mirrors local employers' current tools and
Electrical Technology Modernization Virginia Highlands
1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 3/11/2025 $312,326 $156,163 practices. This alignment ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the job market, enhancing their employability and skill set. The
Initiative Community College
second objective, the integration of modern equipment, is expected to improve the quality of education and increase the program's capacity to accept more
students annually. By streamlining operations and creating a more engaging learning environment, the program aims to accommodate a larger cohort of
aspiring electrical technicians, thereby addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the region.
Wise County aims to determine the feasibility of deploying nuclear microreactors as an alternative energy source that would help bolster the growth potential for future
1 Microreactor Feasibility Study Wise County Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 4/11/2025 $97,500 $50,000
business development in Region 1.
Central Virginia Workforce The Region 2 Talent Collaborative aims to bridge the skills and interest gaps in middle- to high-skill occupations within manufacturing, healthcare, and
2 Region 2 Talent Collaborative Development Board Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 2/13/2018 $300,000 $630,072 information technology. Region 2000 will launch a campaign to raise awareness and generate interest in these industries. Additionally, they will establish a
(Previously Region 2000) training program for current workers to help them acquire the skills necessary for higher-skilled job openings.
The Wood Haven Water & Sewer project aims to significantly enhance the site readiness and marketability of a prime industrial area situated at the intersection
Western Virginia Regional of Routes 81 and 581 in our region. This initiative will facilitate the development of two large pads: a 52-acre pad designed for substantial industrial operations
Site Development and
2 Wood Haven Water & Sewer Industrial Facility Authority Regional Per Capita FY18 2/13/2018 $200,000 $760,000 and a 20-acre pad for smaller enterprises or ancillary services. To prepare this site for future development, GO Virginia funding will be allocated towards the
Infrastructure
(WVRIFA) necessary extension and connection of water and sewer utilities. This investment not only ensures that essential infrastructure is in place but also creates a
more attractive environment for potential businesses and investors, ultimately fostering economic growth and job creation in the area..
Roanoke-Blacksburg
Capital Ecosystem Development Plan conducted a two-year strategic planning process to assess weaknesses in the current capital landscape that inhibit
Innovation Network (RBIN)
2 Capital Ecosystem Development Plan Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 2/13/2018 $77,207 $128,832 entrepreneurship and the commercialization of regional research. VIC will use this information to establish a capital pathways plan to cultivate sources of
dba Valleys Innovation
startup capital for high-growth companies, complete with proposals for new and expanding programming and capital resources for the region.
Council (VIC)
The Stopping the Brain Drain Study has developed a talent attraction and retention plan aimed at reducing the outmigration of recent graduates from the
Roanoke Regional
2 Stopping the Brain Drain Study Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 2/13/2018 $65,300 $65,800 region's 25 colleges and universities. GO Virginia funds will be utilized to identify the challenges faced by the region through surveys, focus groups, and
Partnership
interviews. This information will help create an action plan for recruiting and retaining talent.
The Center for Energy Research and Education (CERE) Industry Labs is designing, constructing, and equipping facilities at the former Center for Advanced
2 CERE Industry Labs: Phase I Liberty University Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 4/10/2018 $300,000 $1,586,100 Engineering & Research (CAER) location in Bedford County. These labs will provide regional companies and institutions of higher education with the necessary
resources to promote research and development. Additionally, they aim to attract and retain a skilled scientific and engineering workforce.
The RAMP (Regional Acceleration and Mentorship Program) Expansion significantly enhances the program's impact in downtown Roanoke. This initiative offers
Roanoke-Blacksburg technology-focused startups invaluable resources, including hands-on classroom education, personalized mentorship, and expert guidance in identifying and
2 RAMP Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 4/10/2018 $245,000 $245,000
Technology Council securing funding opportunities. With the support of GO Virginia funds, the program aims to broaden its offerings to accommodate a second cohort, further
fostering innovation and entrepreneurship within the community.
The Enhancing the Region through New Technology for Unmanned Systems initiative introduces a new training program focused on drone technology. This
Enhancing the Region through New Dabney S. Lancaster program aims to take advantage of the Alleghany Highlands Drone Zone Initiative and the development of an unmanned systems facility in the area. In Region
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 4/10/2018 $76,000 $257,000
Technology for Unmanned Systems Community College 2, this program will create a career pathway that starts with project-based learning opportunities for high school students and extends to the attainment of
either two- or four-year degrees through partnerships with higher education institutions.
CERE Industry Labs is developing the Additive Manufacturing Partnership Lab (AMPL) at the newly established CERE facility in Bedford County. Liberty will utilize
2 CERE Industry Labs: AMPL Phase II Liberty University Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 12/11/2018 $274,980 $630,000 AMPL to train students and manufacturing employees in the region on the newest technology-based processes, such as 3D printing and robotics, which are
driving the manufacturing industry's growth.
Innovation Mill (IM) is a pilot program in Region 2 that was supported by a GOVA grant awarded in 2019. The program focuses on six key strategies: recruiting
Increasing the Birth Rate of New High The Advancement new and early-stage companies, conducting comprehensive evaluations, assigning a team of industry experts to assist in refining proof of concept and business
2 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 3/12/2019 $150,000 $315,000
Growth Companies (Phase 1) Foundation modeling through customer discovery, engaging with higher education institutions, and establishing connections to advanced support and funding
opportunities.
Ignite Internship Expansion builds on a previously awarded project in Region 1 to include the creation of a web-based platform to deliver activities that will
United Way of Southwest
2 Ignite Internship Expansion Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 3/12/2019 $99,406 $102,886 encourage post-secondary education and streamline workforce credentialing, provide work-based learning opportunities, and match new graduates with local
Virginia
employers. UWSWVA will expand these efforts into Giles and Pulaski Counties and the City of Radford.
Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance Due Diligence advances a portfolio of six existing commercial/industrial sites along the site readiness scale and determine
Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance Lynchburg Regional Site Development and
2 Regional Per Capita FY19 6/24/2019 $81,300 $81,301 next steps for moving all sites to at least Tier 3 according to the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP), with seven localities participating. GO Virginia
Due Diligence Study Business Alliance Infrastructure
funds will be used for consultant services to complete the required due diligence phase necessary to advance these sites.
The Regional Career and Technical Education Study aims to enhance and advance the existing Career and Technical Education (CTE) initiatives and programs
within Region One. As the demand for skilled professionals continues to rise, this project is designed to undertake a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of
the current educational landscape. Following this analysis, the study will provide targeted recommendations aimed at improving CTE offerings in the region.
Regional Career and Technical Western Virginia Workforce
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 6/24/2019 $45,000 $45,535 These recommendations will include strategies for curriculum updates that align with industry standards, suggestions for new partnerships with local businesses
Education Study Development Board
to facilitate hands-on training opportunities, and initiatives designed to reach and support underrepresented populations within the workforce. Ultimately, the
goal is to ensure that CTE programs not only meet current demand but also anticipate future labor market trends, thereby empowering students and bolstering
the regional economy.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Virginia Tech plans to develop and implement the Blockchain Ecosystem Catalyst (BEC) program, focusing on four key areas: 1) academic programming, 2)
professional development, 3) building industry relationships, and 4) launching an online resource portal for blockchain startups and professionals. The BEC
2 Blockchain Ecosystem Catalyst Virginia Tech Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 9/10/2019 $246,800 $250,000 program in Region 2 supports talent development by creating and enhancing new curricula for regional higher education institutions and mid-career
professionals, thereby strengthening existing IT pipelines related to blockchain and distributed ledger systems. Additionally, the program promotes
entrepreneurship and the commercialization of blockchain-related technologies.
Virginia Tech is establishing regional hubs to connect local employers, students, faculty, and economic development professionals. This program aims to achieve
2 Developing a Destination for Talent Virginia Tech Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 9/10/2019 $300,000 $473,000 two key objectives: first, it will create a talent pipeline from Virginia Tech to employers in the region’s identified priority sectors through an internship program;
second, it will facilitate collaboration between Virginia Tech faculty and employers, as well as interns, on specific technology transfer projects.
The Region 2 Entrepreneurship Initiative has taken significant steps to enhance the entrepreneurial landscape by coordinating and collaborating closely with a
diverse range of stakeholders throughout Region 2. This collective effort has culminated in the development of the Region 2 Innovation and Entrepreneurial
Investment Plan, a strategic framework aimed at fostering innovation and supporting local entrepreneurs. As part of this initiative, the Virginia Innovation
2 Region 2 Entrepreneurship Initiative Valleys Innovation Council Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 12/9/2019 $299,995 $150,004 Council (VIC) plays a pivotal role by conducting a comprehensive mapping of the regional ecosystem's assets. This in-depth assessment will identify key
resources, including existing businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations that can be leveraged to spur entrepreneurship. The VIC will also
devise targeted strategies to attract additional entrepreneurial resources, such as funding opportunities, mentorship programs, and networking events, ensuring
that burgeoning entrepreneurs have access to the support they need to succeed.
The CVTC Redevelopment Plan establishes a comprehensive master plan for the former 350-acre Central Virginia Training Center (CVTC) site in Amherst County.
Lynchburg Regional Site Development and
2 CVTC Redevelopment Plan Regional Per Capita FY20 12/9/2019 $100,000 $250,000 This plan involves data collection and analysis, public engagement, workshops, infrastructure assessment, and market evaluation. The findings will be submitted
Business Alliance Infrastructure
to the Amherst Board of Supervisors for consideration in the County's comprehensive plan and for the approval of an overlay zoning district.
The Classrooms to Careers program was proposed in 2019 to link expanded curriculum opportunities in Information Technology within MCPS to work-based
learning experiences with local employers. The grant funding aimed to engage high school students in the New River Valley, where it has been challenging for
Montgomery County Public
2 Classrooms to Careers Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 4/17/2020 $180,000 $231,700 these students to compete with college students for internships and part-time entry-level jobs. In 2019, IT careers and talent retention were priorities for GO
Schools
Virginia. Unfortunately, the Classrooms to Careers grant did not achieve its intended goals, primarily due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting shift to
remote work in the IT industry nationwide.
The Techonomy report highlighted the need for the project, pointing out Virginia's weak culture of innovation and a lack of support for entrepreneurial
ecosystems. One significant concern is the insufficient allocation of focused resources to foster, recognize, form, and scale high-growth startups and industry
Increasing the Birth Rate of New High The Advancement
2 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 4/17/2020 $180,000 $180,000 clusters, which are crucial for attracting and retaining talent. To address this, The Advancement Foundation (TAF) launched the "Increasing the Birth Rates of
Growth Companies (Phase 2) Foundation
New High-Growth Companies initiative." This initiative focuses on identifying, evaluating, and supporting the comprehensive development of potential high-
growth companies by establishing a backbone of services that bolster regional entrepreneurship efforts and connect the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The Rapid High-Throughput COVID-19 Testing supports an initial 90-day start-up phase for 2 testing sites in Blacksburg and Roanoke to help many people
Virginia Tech Office of Vice receive timely COVID-19 test results. A task force from Virginia Tech has been assembled to work on various aspects of the project. To date, the team has
Rapid High-Throughput COVID-19
2 President for Health Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 4/21/2020 $100,000 $50,000 developed and finalized validation for COVID-19 testing and stood up two Fralin laboratory facilities. GO Virginia funds will be used to support the salaries of the
Testing
Sciences and Technology newly hired Medical Laboratory Specialists (MLS), Medical Laboratory Technicians (MLT), and student interns at both sites to help scale-up the operation and
purchase testing supplies needed for sample analysis.
Pivot and RAMP Up play a crucial role in helping Region Two sustain the momentum of rapidly growing businesses that generate high-wage jobs. Their goal is to
extend the benefits of these programs to a wider array of companies across the region. To achieve this, they offer comprehensive educational resources,
Blacksburg Roanoke
2 Pivot and RAMP Up Regional ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 5/6/2020 $97,200 $49,000 personalized mentoring, and tailored business assistance. These services are designed not only to support new and emerging enterprises but also to ensure
Technology Council
ongoing development and success for graduates of the accelerator program. By focusing on continuous engagement and support, Pivot and RAMP Up aim to
create a thriving ecosystem that fosters job creation and economic vitality throughout Region Two.
The Roanoke Regional Recovery Project is a proactive initiative designed to swiftly engage local companies across key sectors that have been significantly
impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This project aims to provide both immediate support and long-term recovery strategies tailored to the unique challenges
Roanoke Regional
2 Roanoke Regional Recovery Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 5/22/2020 $100,000 $50,000 faced by these businesses. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the project not only addresses the current economic hardships but also works to enhance
Partnership
the resilience of the regional economy, equipping businesses with the tools and resources necessary to withstand future crises. Through targeted outreach and
comprehensive support services, the Roanoke Regional Recovery Project seeks to create a stronger, more sustainable economic landscape for the community.
The New River Valley Business Continuity Team provides comprehensive 24/7 technical support for local businesses seeking certification in best practices for
safe reopening during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aims to equip employers with the necessary resources and guidance to navigate health and safety
New River Valley Business Continuity New River Valley Regional
2 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 5/22/2020 $100,000 $50,000 protocols effectively. Through expert assistance, businesses can ensure they are well-prepared to protect their employees and customers while adhering to the
Team (phase 1) Commission
latest public health guidelines. This certification not only demonstrates a commitment to safety but also helps rebuild community trust as businesses begin to
reopen their doors.
The Workforce Training program for COVID-19 testing in Southwest Virginia aims to enhance the testing capacity at the newly established Fralin laboratories
Virginia Tech Office of Vice located in Blacksburg and Roanoke. Over the course of the next year, this initiative will not only increase the volume of COVID-19 testing conducted but will also
Workforce Training for Coronavirus
2 President for Health Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/23/2020 $500,000 $250,000 focus on developing a robust internship pipeline that prepares participants for full-time positions in the healthcare sector. By providing hands-on training and
Testing in Southwest Virginia
Sciences and Technology professional development opportunities, the program seeks to equip individuals with the necessary skills and experience to support the ongoing public health
response and bolster the local workforce.
The Public Health Readiness (PHRE) mobile application is designed to assist smaller organizations in quickly assessing and improving their readiness to operate
Virginia Tech, Institute for with minimal risk to workers, customers, and surrounding communities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, small businesses and civic organizations in Region 2
2 PHRE Mobile App Critical Technology and Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 7/30/2020 $63,500 $42,610 faced challenges due to a lack of personnel, resources, and expertise needed to track and implement evolving state and federal public health guidelines as they
Applied Science attempted to resume operations. The development of this mobile app provides these organizations with a valuable tool to evaluate and enhance their readiness
to operate safely.
The Amherst LYH Site Readiness Project is a strategic initiative designed to enhance two key locations: one site is situated in Amherst County, while the other is
located in the Town of Amherst. The primary goal of this project is to elevate both sites along the Virginia Business Readiness Scale, which measures the
Lynchburg Regional Site Development and preparedness of locations for business development and investment opportunities. As a result of these initiatives, 151 acres of land will be advanced to Tier IV
2 Amherst LYH Site Readiness Regional Per Capita FY20 9/22/2020 $366,572 $183,286
Business Alliance Infrastructure status, indicating a high level of readiness for businesses to establish operations. Meanwhile, 76 acres will be upgraded to Tier V status, reflecting an exceptional
level of preparedness and attractiveness for potential investors. This project is expected to drive economic growth and enhance the overall business climate in
both the County and the Town.
The Experiment Learning in Tech Employment (ELITE) program provides valuable internship opportunities for students who are pursuing a degree in software
development at a regional four-year university. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical experience by connecting
Experiential Learning in Tech Roanoke-Blacksburg students with small technology companies. These companies often lack the in-house expertise or resources necessary to effectively manage their own
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 9/22/2020 $290,000 $145,000
Employment (ELITE) Internship Program Technology Council internship programs. By collaborating with ELITE, these businesses gain access to motivated students eager to contribute while receiving support in creating
meaningful and structured internship experiences. This partnership not only helps students develop essential skills in a real-world setting but also enables small
companies to harness fresh talent and innovative ideas.
This initiative aims to provide 24/7 technical assistance to employers impacted by COVID-19 through the Business Continuity Team (BCT). The support will cover
public relations and messaging, facility cleaning, certification of best practices, and coordination of on-site testing. This request follows the recent award of
New River Valley Business Continuity New River Valley Regional
2 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 9/22/2020 $250,000 $125,000 $100,000 from the Go Virginia Economic Resilience and Recovery (ERR) Fast-Access funds to the New River Valley Regional Commission (NRVRC) for a six-
Team (Phase 2) Commission
month startup phase. The program manager will promote BCT services to existing employers, including the Chamber of Commerce, Onward NRV, and other
regional partners. The BCT Public Health Director will coordinate efforts with affected businesses and the New River Health District.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
CVCC has identified 26 existing programs that will enhance and align under the Academy framework and will develop four additional credential and/or
certificate programs. The CTE Academy programming includes a heavy concentration of the region’s targeted industry sectors, such as manufacturing,
Central Virginia Community College CTE Central Virginia Community
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 12/7/2020 $266,000 $134,000 healthcare, information technology, and the automated segment of the food and beverage sector. The skills-based training will enable students to pursue well-
Academy College
defined career pathways to obtain higher-paying jobs achievable with stackable credentials and certifications. Each path includes a dual enrollment option
based on existing programs offered to each of the five regional public high school divisions, which includes 10 total high schools.
Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, Inc (VTCRC) will assess the demand and projected growth of lab space, creating a working plan to serve the entire
region, and create an initial conceptual design to drive investor and market interest. This effort will design, develop, and operate lab space under VTF’s
Region 2 Flexible Laboratory Space
2 Virginia Tech Foundation Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 2/23/2021 $99,360 $55,000 leadership through the VTCRC infrastructure to support commercial entities as well as young startups in both Roanoke and the New River Valley. VTCRC
Assessment
routinely receives requests for prospects seeking lab space but they currently have a backlog of 9 companies seeking lab space in various forms. This will also
help address keeping the locally grown talent within the region.
The Helping Local Employers Prepare the Existing and Future Workforce for Industry 4.0 initiative assists local employers in preparing, which is essential in
Virginia Tech Grado meeting the growing demand for specialized skills in this new industrial era. By focusing on developing training programs tailored to industry competencies such
Helping Local Employers Prepare the
Department of Industrial as advanced robotics and data analytics, this effort aims not only to equip the existing workforce with the necessary tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving
2 Existing and Future Workforce for Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY21 5/4/2021 $45,360 $30,000
and Systems Engineering manufacturing landscape but also to ensure that future talent is well-prepared to contribute effectively. This strategic approach is crucial for enhancing the
Industry 4.0
(ISE) Learning Factory competitiveness of Region Two's manufacturing sector, positioning it as a leader in innovation and productivity. Additionally, fostering collaboration between
educational institutions and industry leaders will create a robust pipeline of skilled workers, ultimately driving economic growth and sustainability in the region.
Lynchburg Beacon of Hope scales the Future Centers model to Amherst County High School and at least another high school located in Region 2000 and the
Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) capture area, and develops a playbook. The Future Centers model looks to increase the number of experiential
2 Lynchburg Beacon of Hope Lynchburg Beacon of Hope Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 5/4/2021 $97,740 $131,250
opportunities offered to high school students and increase the number of students who participate in those opportunities by increasing the percentage of
students pursuing on-the-job training, certificates and degrees in those in-demand fields.
Building a Regional Health Sciences Talent Pipeline builds the life and health sciences talent pipeline by establishing a new initiative to better: 1) meet the acute
Building a Regional Health Sciences
2 Freedom First Foundation Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY21 5/4/2021 $100,000 $106,355 and growing need of regional employers for qualified workers, including technicians and others; 2) support the region’s emerging Health and Life Sciences
Talent Pipeline
(H&LS) ecosystem and; 3) make the region stronger as a magnet for attracting established companies in the H&LS sector seeking to expand and relocate.
Project Eagle aims to deliver cutting-edge programming within a state-of-the-art lab facility, specifically designed to be flexible and responsive to the unique
requirements of smaller emerging startups as well as established biotech companies in the region. This dedicated space not only fosters innovation but also
2 Project Eagle+ Virginia Tech Foundation Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 12/15/2021 $599,437 $503,687
provides essential resources and support tailored to enhance research and development efforts in the biotech sector. By creating an environment that nurtures
collaboration and creativity, Project Eagle empowers these companies to thrive and drive advancements in biotechnology.
Regional Talent Strategy Western Virginia Workforce Regional Talent Strategy Implementation develops a regional talent strategy in the Roanoke Valley and Alleghany Highlands in partnership with the Roanoke
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 4/21/2022 $315,911 $189,354
Implementation Development Board Regional Partnership, focused on career awareness and career pathways, talent development, talent attraction and retention, and collaboration and leadership.
Workforce and Entrepreneurship Initiatives in a Regional Makerspace facilitate the implementation of expanded programming and equipment at the Vector
Space centered around workforce development and entrepreneurship for underserved populations. The Workforce and Entrepreneurship Initiatives within a
Workforce and Entrepreneurship regional makerspace aim to enhance programming and equipment availability at Vector Space. These initiatives are specifically designed to support workforce
2 Vector Space Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 6/14/2022 $324,000 $162,100
Initiatives in a Regional Makerspace development and foster entrepreneurship among underserved populations. By providing access to advanced tools, mentorship, and training programs, we seek
to empower individuals with the skills they need to thrive in today’s job market and launch their own businesses. This effort not only addresses the skills gap but
also promotes economic growth and innovation within the community.
CS/root creates a platform for computer science (CS) focused entrepreneurship in the New River and Roanoke Valleys focusing on stimulating startups in the
Virginia Tech Department of
2 CS/root Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 9/13/2022 $175,000 $175,000 pre-launch phase. The initiative will focus on the pre-launch phase when technical founders need the expertise of technical advisors to move their concept, IP,
Computer Science
or ideas from the drawing board to working demonstrations for eventual use in a go-to-market strategy.
Airport Commerce Park advances an industrial site in an existing airport park from Tier 2 to Tier 3 along the Virginia Business Ready Site Program (VBRSP) scale.
Site Development and
2 Airport Commerce Park City of Lynchburg Regional Per Capita FY22 12/13/2022 $190,000 $109,074 The City of Lynchburg and Campbell County are collaborating to advance 82 acres for future development. This park, which is located on and adjacent to the
Infrastructure
Lynchburg Regional Airport Commission footprint, is 260 acres in size with 82 developable acres.
BTEC - Expanding Welding Training expands the pool of qualified welders to meet the unmet needs of manufacturers in the region through the expansion of the
Botetourt Technical Education Center (BTEC) welding program. In partnership with BTEC, Craig County Public Schools, Botetourt County Public Schools, and
BTEC - Expanding Welding Training Botetourt County Economic
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 12/13/2022 $166,667 $83,333 Botetourt Education Foundation, Botetourt County EDA is requesting 10 new welding booths to expand the current welding program at BTEC and train an
Capacity & Jobs in the Roanoke Valley Development Authority
additional 45 new welders. The additional capacity will allow the program to increase high school and adult enrollment and double the hands-on training time
capacity at the welding booths.
Industry 4.0 provides Region Two participants and serves businesses to scale up the transportation and autonomous vehicles sector through a coalition of
Virginia Tech Grado
industry and educational partners. Through the formation of an Automated-Connected-Electrified (ACE) Coalition of over 150+ public, private, and non-profit
Industry 4.0 for the Automated- Department of Industrial
2 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY23 12/13/2022 $500,000 $251,300 organizations, the initiative seeks to advance the region’s transportation and autonomous vehicles sector with the following: 1) providing direct technical
Connected-Eletrified (ACE) Workforce and Systems Engineering
assistance and advising to sector companies, 2) creating a Network Navigator position, and 3) enhancing and implementing the Industry 4.0 Curriculum through
(ISE) Learning Factory
a prior Virginia Tech-led GO Virginia Enhanced Capacity Building (ECB) grant.
Metal Workforce Training Center purchased a 60,000 square foot former foundry, and the Town of Bedford Economic Development Authority seeks to develop
a master plan to determine programming and an operational model for the proposed “Regional Metal Workforce Retention Center”. The facility would be
2 Metal Workforce Training Center Town of Bedford Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 1/27/2023 $99,900 $213,772 ideally suited for metal fabrication, which includes welding, forging, machining, stamping, folding, extruding, etc. This proposal would help develop a
public/private business model that encourages corporate industry participation and help address the expansion needs of the Central Virginia Community
College (CVCC) CTE Program.
The Center of Entrepreneurship increases the number of growth-oriented startups by creating an entrepreneurial center of excellence for the Greater
Lynchburg region that will serve as an anchor and catalyst for the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Center seeks to provide new and serial entrepreneurs
Lynchburg Regional
2 Center of Entrepreneurship Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 3/14/2023 $240,192 $187,035 with access to capital and resources to help take their products into the marketplace. This initiative will directly assist entrepreneurs by providing dedicated
Business Alliance
physical space at LRBA and Liberty University for the targeted startups, including shared workspaces, meeting room access, and space to work with mentors
and support services.
Lynchburg Career Acceleration Program serves as a regional catalyst to create and fill a well-trained, well-supported pipeline of career-seekers who will fill the
2 Lynchburg Career Acceleration Program Lynchburg Beacon of Hope Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 3/14/2023 $540,000 $352,200 needs of high-demand traded sector industries in and around the Lynchburg region. The proposal will accelerate the training, mentorship, career development,
and placement of talented opportunity youth and prime-age workers in the region.
Falling Branch Corporate Park Regional Site Development advances an industrial site in an existing corporate park from Tier 4 to a Tier 5 along the Virginia
Business Ready Site Program (VBRSP) scale. Montgomery County and the Town of Christiansburg are collaborating to advance this 35-acre site for future
Falling Branch Coporate Park Regional Site Development and
2 Montgomery County Regional Per Capita FY23 6/13/2023 $324,000 $4,585,000 development. This effort will build on previous work to develop pad sites within the park. The applicant has indicated that a previous Tier 5 lot in an earlier
Site Development Infrastructure
phase of the park was chosen for a Life Science facility with a $100 million investment, and that advancing this site to a Tier 5 would allow for less uncertainty
and a shorter construction timeline. The project will involve grading the site and installing utilities.
Strengthening Entrepreneurs Impact project in Region Two provides jobs to expand businesses, serve businesses, engage entrepreneurs and mentors, and
increase the number of fund investments by scaling the Regional Accelerator and Mentoring Program (RAMP) through pre- and post-accelerator activities and
2 Strengthening Entrepreneurs' Impact Verge Alliance Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 9/12/2023 $577,800 $288,900 updating data in the Region 2 Innovation Ecosystem report. The project will support companies in the technology and biotechnology sectors to grow and scale
through the following activities: 1) Launching OnRAMP, a pre-accelerator program to improve barriers to entry for early-stage startup companies, 2) Enhancing
the Exit RAMP program, and 3) Enhancing the I&E report by collecting data on early-stage startups.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Talent Pathways Initiative for Region Two’s Life Sciences & Biotechnology and Transportation, Manufacturing, & Autonomy targeted industries. This project
Virginia Tech Center for
will utilize a model by which Virginia Tech CECE will contract with a diverse group of implementation partners to convene industry coalitions, complete
2 Talent Pathways Initiative Economic and Community Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 9/12/2023 $250,000 $125,029
quantitative and qualitative situational analysis, complete gap analysis, develop an inventory of in need and existing skills and training opportunities, develop an
Engagement
asset map, and identify strategies and supporting highest-impact pathway projects for the future.
The New River Valley Commission developed a roadmap that accomplished the following:1) Build and strengthen the capacity of the coalition to grow the
NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster New River Valley Regional
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 10/23/2023 $98,859 $102,528 cluster through regular discussions and planning; 2)Map out regional assets and resources that could support industry scale up, including resources in Roanoke,
Scale-Up Commission
Lynchburg, and Danville regions; 3) Identify and prioritize unique projects that could support ecosystem growth and transformation of the cluster.
Appomattox County, in partnership with Central Virginia Community College (CVCC) and the Appomattox Christian Academy, developed additional capacity for
ACA Classical & CTE Academy Welding Central Virginia Planning career and technical education in the region through a new facility for welding training. The facility would focus on meeting demand for welding courses not
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 12/12/2023 $565,000 $303,182
Program District Commission currently met through the existing training centers of Central Virginia Community College. CVCC plans to offer students the opportunity to receive portable
credentials in welding and pipefitting at the facility.
Manufacturing Workforce Development Lynchburg Regional The Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance convened stakeholder workgroups and contract with a third party to develop a workforce pipeline development
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 1/25/2024 $40,500 $37,500
for the Lynchburg Region Business Alliance strategy to address the workforce needs of manufacturers in Region Two.
The Developing IT and Cybersecurity Pipeline increases the number of certifications earned in the information technology field through a partnership between
Radford University and the Commonwealth Cybersecurity Initiative – Southwest Virginia. The project team will convene meetings between representatives from
Developing IT & Cybersecurity
IT and cybersecurity programs at Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College, and businesses in the Region to enhance communication
2 Certification Pipeline to Advance Radford University Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 6/4/2024 $202,872 $116,863
within the cluster. This initiative will establish a Pearson VUE testing lab in the City of Radford and market the need for certifications to college students and
Cluster Growth (ITCCP)
regional employers. This initiative also seeks to connect certified students to regional businesses through internships and career fairs in the form of a “Talent
Connector Program”.
The engineering program focusing on mechatronics and robotics will include dual enrollment opportunities in partnership with Central Virginia Community
College (CVCC) as the central hub of dual enrollment offerings for area high schools and will require paid internships for students going through the program,
Educating Engineers for the Region 2
2 Randolph College Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 6/4/2024 $367,000 $379,784 once at Randolph. Partners will continue to serve on the advisory board to ensure the program curriculum remains relevant to the needs of Region 2
Workforce
employers. Additionally, the program will launch as a FANUC robotics certified program and will provide community college students the ability to complete
Phase two of the FANUC certification, which will be the only Region Two engineering program offering this certification.
The VERGE Alliance, in partnership with Virginia Tech, Carilion Clinic, Blue Ridge Partnership for Health Sciences, and Virginia Western Community College, will
lead Region 2 - VITAL. This project is designed to be a comprehensive three-pillar approach to cultivating new business formation in the biotechnology industry:
Pillar One - Asset/Business Development, Pillar Two - Capital Development, and Pillar 3 - Talent Development, Attraction, and Retention. Pillar One activities
include startup-related marketing, boot camps, and networking events branded "Venture Bridge" (VERGE), FDA compliance assistance, and assistance for
translational usability for innovative medical devices through the Carilion Translational Usability Division (Carilion Clinic), and mentorship ecosystem building
and expedited lab-to-market working groups (Virginia Tech. Pillar Two activities include new programming and curriculum focused on teaching startups about
2 Region 2 - Project VITAL Verge Alliance Statewide Competitive Cluster Scale-Up FY24 6/4/2024 $4,987,029 $2,517,443 capital market research and venture finance, as well as facilitated access to investors and a new Expert Entrepreneur in Residence for the biotechnology
program (VERGE) and development of a Biomedical Proof-of-Concept Grant Program (Virginia Tech). Pillar Three activities include development of a summer
conference dedicated to attracting teachers from across the Commonwealth to promote inclusion of biotechnology classes in K-12 (Virginia Western
Community College), coordinating and launching college-focused programming at Virginia Tech, Radford College, Roanoke College, Hollins College, and Virginia
Western Community College (Blue Ridge Partnership for Health Sciences), engaging with Virginia Talent and Opportunity Partnership and ROCS Staffing to
facilitate the matching of college students with internships in the biotechnology cluster (VERGE) and expanding the Fralin Commercialization Fellow Program
and the Graduate Student Tech Commercialization Fellows Program (Virginia Tech).
The Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, in partnership with VERGE, Virginia Tech, Montgomery County, and the City of Roanoke will work to address the need
Fralin Biomedical Reserarch for cleanroom space through planning activities geared toward surveying region-wide and state-wide needs and implementing a pilot cleanroom space as the
2 GMP Clean Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 9/5/2024 $100,000 $50,000
Institute Institute. The pilot cleanroom space in this project will be utilized to test and promote a state-of-the-art modular cleanroom model and will see immediate use
from three local startup companies to manufacture biomedicines. The three businesses being served are Tiny Cargo, Qentoros, and Acomhal.
Montgomery County Public Schools, in collaboration with other Region 2 School Districts (Giles County, Roanoke County, Pulaski County, and City of Radform) will introduce
GOTEC Launch in the New River Valley Montgomery County Public
2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 6/10/2025 $994,213 $518,956 the GOTEC program in order to increase the pool of qualified workers supporting the Transportation and Autonomy Manufacturing, Materials and Machinery
and Roanoke County Schools Manufacturing, Life Sciences and Biotechnology, and IT, Engineering, and Emerging Technologies industry clusters.
New River Valley Regional Site Development and The New River Valley Regional Commission will partner with the participating localities to identify and evaluate 5 sites, one in each of the participating localities, as well as
2 NRV Site Advancement Strategy 2025 Regional Per Capita FY25 8/3/2025 $94,400 $108,479
Commission Infrastructure one regional commerce park. The 5 sites will be self-selected by the participating localities
Lynchburg Regional The Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance (LRBA) will expand the Lynchburg region’s workforce by attracting and retaining talent through the development of a
2 Say Yes to LYH Region Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY26 9/9/2025 $99,999 $50,000
Business Alliance web-based talent attraction and retention portal called SayYestoLYHRegion. The core of the project will be focused on the manufacturing sector.
GO-Tec Phase One provides the region with the Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (Go-TEC) program for careers in IT and advanced
Danville Community College manufacturing. Go-TEC is a partnership between six higher-education centers and the K-12 school systems in their service areas, beginning with Danville and
3 GO-TEC (phase 1) Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 2/13/2018 $648,000 $674,437
(DCC) Pittsylvania schools as the pilot sites. Go-TEC will build give students hands-on exposure to in-demand career pathways starting in middle school. Areas of focus
are precision machining, welding, information technology and cybersecurity, robotics, automation, and mechatronics, and advanced materials.
The SOVA Innovation Hub Planning Grant outlined the concept of a modern multi-use facility with technology outreach programs in the region, to be known as
Mid-Atlantic Broadband the Southern Virginia Innovation Hub. MBC will establish site plans, as well as an implementation plan with projected outcomes and metrics for benchmarking
3 SOVA Innovation Hub Planning Grant Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 10/9/2018 $80,000 $80,000
Communities success, while validating these plans with partners, stakeholders, businesses, educators and students. The region hopes to secure Microsoft’s continued
investment through the TechSpark program by demonstrating the potential for this facility to become a signature project for the program.
The GO-TEC Phase Two expansion was a comprehensive initiative aimed at enhancing workforce development through an array of targeted programs and
resources. This expansion involved the training of personnel and instructors to ensure high-quality education delivery. Additionally, it facilitated extensive
3 GO-TEC (phase 2) Danville Community College Statewide Competitive Workforce Development FY18 3/12/2019 $4,896,528 $4,915,962 outreach efforts to engage more participants in the program. A significant component of this initiative was the establishment of four middle-school career
connection labs, which serve as hands-on learning environments where students can explore various career paths early on. These labs focus on critical fields
such as precision machining, welding, information technology and cybersecurity, robotics, mechatronics, automation, and advanced materials.
Mid-Atlantic Broadband Communities Corporation (MBC) and Longwood Small Business Development Center (SBDC) collaborated to develop a comprehensive
Entrepreneurship Innovation & Mid-Atlantic Broadband
3 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 9/10/2019 $100,000 $50,000 strategy and framework for a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem for the region. These two partners will identify and map traded-sector businesses and
Investment Strategy Communities
entrepreneurship resources available within the region to support entrepreneurial ecosystem activities.
IALR Common Platform with the Institute of Advanced Learning and Research in Region Three increases students’ participation in work-based learning
Institute of Advanced
3 IALR Common Platform Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 4/15/2020 $90,140 $121,960 experiences and maximize participation from employers in listing work-based learning experiences such as job shadowing, internships, and apprenticeships and
Learning and Research
support development of career pathways in strategic sectors
The Virginia Growth Alliance helped with a short-term pilot project to test the efficacy of unmanned system delivery in a small urban environment in order to: 1)
Operation Last-Mile: Critical Drone develop the ability for unmanned system delivery of items (medical equipment/supplies) related to COVID-19 pandemic to locations that could be cut off due to
3 Virginia Growth Alliance Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 4/15/2020 $75,000 $75,218
Delivery Testing quarantine, and 2) to demonstrate that unmanned systems companies can utilize the particular site on a more routine basis to help attract companies to the
site.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Southern Virginia Regional
Bridge to Recovery provided immediate and impactful support to businesses through the multiple recovery periods of the COVID-19 pandemic, bridge supply
3 Bridge to Recovery Alliance and Virginia Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/23/2020 $925,000 $478,250
chain needs of companies with service providers and ultimately, jumpstart the region’s economic rebound.
Growth Alliance
The Broadband Middle Mile Project has significantly advanced collaborative and cross-regional economic development by establishing a robust network of 206
Broadband Middle Mile Expansion for Mid-Atlantic Broadband Site Development and miles of broadband infrastructure. This phase of the project focuses on the critical engineering and design of the fiber optic network, which will enhance
3 Regional Per Capita FY19 7/15/2020 $100,000 $904,000
Economic Growth Communities Infrastructure connectivity and access to high-speed internet for communities and businesses alike. By providing a reliable broadband backbone, the project aims to stimulate
local economies, foster innovation, and ensure that underserved areas are not left behind in the digital age.
The SOVA Innovation Hub Corporation has successfully completed the Entrepreneur & Innovation Implementation, a two-year effort to establish programs that
Entrepreneur & Innovation SOVA Innovation Hub
3 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 3/16/2021 $449,000 $280,000 align with the Region Three Entrepreneurship and Innovation Investment Strategy. This initiative focuses on three key strategies: entrepreneurship training,
Implementation Corporation
youth entrepreneurship, and improving access to capital.
The ExperienceWorks initiative employs a comprehensive systems approach designed to optimize GO Virginia Region Three's investments. This initiative aims to
Institute of Advanced connect students and young adults with high-skill, high-wage employment opportunities. It does this by offering a diverse range of work-based learning
3 ExperienceWorks Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 9/23/2021 $515,628 $523,358
Learning and Research experiences, such as internships, apprenticeships, and job shadowing programs. These experiences are tailored to equip participants with the necessary skills
and practical knowledge needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market. By fostering partnerships with local businesses and educational institutions,
ExperienceWorks enhances the career readiness of young individuals, helping them to successfully transition from education to employment.
The Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) (and the IALR as fiscal agent) are developing a site development program that will parallel VEDP’s site
Institute of Advanced Site Development and characterization program. The region had 33 of 66 available sites evaluated as part of the VEDP site characterization program. This proposal seeks funding to
3 SVRA Site Development Project Regional Per Capita FY21 9/23/2021 $1,534,900 $767,450
Learning and Research Infrastructure elevate eleven of these 33 publicly owned sites on the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program Tier System to be more shovel-ready. The project will raise eleven
sites totaling 2,417 acres to Tier 4, on the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) scale.
The Strategy and Roadmap for Growing Agriculture Project developed a strategy and roadmap for supporting industry growth and workforce development for
Strategy and Roadmap for Growing the Controlled Environmental Agriculture (CEA) in Region Three. The plan and roadmap will include an analysis of this emerging and dynamic agribusiness sector,
Institute of Advanced
3 Controlled Environmental Agriculture Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 11/19/2021 $77,803 $38,543 including industry and economic growth potential, identifying and validating needed facilities and infrastructure, workforce development issues and
Learning and Research
(CEA) Sector opportunities, and applied research assets.
Project SEED aims to enhance the local economy by forging strong connections between the community and a wide array of resources focused on business and
social entrepreneurship development. Central to this initiative is the establishment of an Innovation Hub in Downtown Farmville, designed to serve as a vibrant
Project SEED - Innovation Hub at Longwood University Real workspace and a collaborative environment. This hub will offer workshops, mentorship programs, and access to funding opportunities, fostering creativity and
3 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 12/15/2021 $674,304 $3,087,154
Midtown Square Estate Foundation innovation among local entrepreneurs. By bringing together aspiring business owners, seasoned professionals, and community members, Project SEED seeks to
cultivate a thriving ecosystem that empowers individuals to turn their ideas into successful ventures, ultimately benefiting the economic landscape of Farmville
and its surrounding regions.
Gupton Initiative created a pipeline of internship and employment opportunities for students of the VCF member institutions in the advanced pharmaceutical
3 Gupton Initiative Virginia College Fund Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 2/18/2022 $99,200 $59,000 manufacturing cluster in central Virginia, and further demonstrates the potential for employment in advanced manufacturing sectors across the
Commonwealth.
The Virginia Growth Alliance Restart Strategy played a crucial role in enhancing the operational capacity and strategic framework of the regional economic
VGA Refresh/Restart: A Strategy for development organization located in the eastern subregion of GO Virginia Region Three. This initiative focused on identifying and leveraging key resources,
Virginia's Growth Alliance
3 Regional Economic Development Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 3/4/2022 $100,000 $51,000 fostering partnerships, and implementing targeted programs aimed at stimulating economic growth and resilience. By promoting collaboration among local
(VGA)
In Southern Virginia stakeholders, businesses, and government agencies, the strategy sought to address existing challenges, capitalize on emerging opportunities, and ultimately
drive sustainable development throughout the region.
The MBC Middle Mile Fiber Expansion extended middle-mile open-access fiber optic infrastructure to critical business and industrial parks in Regions Three and
MBC Middle Mile Fiber Expansion Mid-Atlantic Broadband Site Development and
3 Statewide Competitive FY21 3/10/2022 $5,000,000 $6,000,000 Four, which will increase marketability, reduce future infrastructure extension costs, and provide a robust and diverse fiber connection that will enable private
Project Communities Infrastructure
sector telecom carriers to reach these economic development sites.
Through a series of regional discussions, the communities of the CRC footprint desire a strategic set of goals, priorities, focus and support to better reflect
Commonwealth Regional Site Development and
3 CRC REDO Strategy and Business Plan Regional Per Capita FY22 8/18/2022 $65,000 $44,500 changes in the economic development landscape and to launch a Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO) in an effective and sustainable manner
Council Infrastructure
through the development of a business plan.
GO TEC Virginia is a partnership between IALR, GO Virginia Regions One, Three, Four, and Five. In-Region Coordinating Entities (IRCE), employers, economic
developers, K12 Divisions, and higher education institutions. GO TEC Virginia will be executed by IALR and the three IRCEs, with efforts informed and endorsed
Institute of Advanced by a 16-member multi-region Board of Directors. Through the IRCEs, each region will establish a GO TEC Advisory Board, composed of 21 members. GO TEC
3 GO TEC Virginia 2025 Statewide Competitive Workforce Development FY22 12/13/2022 $3,474,821 $2,426,079
Learning and Research Virginia 2025 includes the development of three GO TEC Training Labs – one each in Region One, Four, Five – to serve as a focal point for regional economic
developers, working with existing and prospective businesses, to showcase the GO TEC talent pathways and hands-on technology integration that create a
pipeline of skilled workers.
P&HCC Expanding GO Tec increases dual enrollment opportunities in welding and expands the pool of qualified workers. As part of the GO TEC pathway and
Patrick and Henry aligned with the GO TEC 2025 Statewide Competitive project recently approved, P&HCC proposes offering dual enrollment welding classes for students in Henry
3 P&HCC - Expanding GO TEC Pathways Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 3/14/2023 $118,545 $129,261
Community College County Public Schools and Martinsville City Public Schools. P&HCC seeks to expand training in welding to include high school dual enrollment opportunities to
grow the pipeline of trained welders.
SVCC Expanding GO Tec increases dual enrollment opportunities for high school students and expands the pool of qualified workers in the mechatronics
Southside Virginia
3 SVCC Expanding GO TEC Pathways Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 3/14/2023 $139,732 $223,208 industry. SVCC plans to increase dual enrollment options in the Mechatronics field for students in Buckingham, Cumberland, and Prince Edward schools. The
Community College
instructor that will be supported by this grant will teach mechatronics classes to students in each high school.
The Virginia Growth Alliance advances the number of shovel-ready sites in the GO Virginia Region Three. Virginia’s Growth Alliance Site Development Project
will work to elevate seven sites on the VEDP Virginia Business Ready Sites scale. Among those sites are two sites that will be elevated to Tier 5 via due diligence (I-
Virginia's Growth Alliance Site Mecklenburg County Site Development and
3 Regional Per Capita FY23 6/14/2023 $335,050 $167,525 85 Industrial Park and Brunswick County Industrial Park), two sites that will be elevated to Tier 4 via due diligence (Heartland Industrial Park and Lunenburg
Development Project (Virginia's Growth Alliance) Infrastructure
Commerce Center), two sites that will be elevated to Tier 3 via due diligence (K-V Industrial Site and Lunenburg-Victoria Industrial Site) and one site that will
maintain its soon to expire Tier 4 status via updated due diligence (FASTA Site).
The SOVA Innovation Hub Corporation increases the availability of capital for innovators and entrepreneurs through targeted resource navigation, technical
assistance, and outreach and storytelling. The RISE Build-to-Scale Initiative is the next phase of the SOVA RISE Collaboration, which began with the Region 3’s
SOVA Innovation Hub
3 RISE Build-To-Scale Initiative Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 9/12/2023 $600,000 $350,000 Entrepreneurship & Innovation Strategy in 2019. This proposal will scaleup and expand the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Region 3 and will include the
Corporation
following activities over the next two years: 1) Launch the RISE Community Navigator Program, 2) Expand the RISE Entrepreneurship Training Pipeline, and 3)
Extend Outreach and Storytelling.
The Southern Virginia Partnership for Health Science Careers increases skill-ready and health-ready workforce that advances Southern Virginia’s economy. The
Southern Virginia
TPI Planning 2023: SoVa Partnership for Region 3 Council selected the Southern Virginia Partnership for Health Science Careers (SOVAPHSC) to serve as the Talent Pathways Planning Initiative industry
3 Partnership for Health Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 9/12/2023 $133,000 $67,500
Health Science Careers cluster talent coordinating entity. This proposal recognizes the competitive disadvantage faced by Southern Virginia when recruiting and retaining traded sector
Science Careers
business investment because of their low healthcare outcomes, diminishing access to healthcare providers, and the availability of healthcare workers.
Amelia County Economic Development Authority recently acquired a 134-acre site on the north side of Rt. 360 and has rezoned the property to Industrial M-1
Site Development and
3 Amelia County Site Suitability Study Amelia County EDA Regional Per Capita FY24 4/17/2024 $21,000 $10,500 in June 2023. The site is not currently served by water, sewer, or gas. Before the due diligence activities are undertaken, the County will complete a site sector
Infrastructure
suitability study to determine which of Region Three’s traded industry clusters could be supported.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
This GO Tec Expansion will add two new Career Connections labs, one in Henry County and one in Brunswick County. These new Career Connections labs will
Institute of Advanced
3 GO TEC Region 3 Expansion Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 6/4/2024 $302,690 $517,237 focus on advanced manufacturing and IT modules. The project will also add a 9th and 10th grade bridge pilot program in Henry County. This would attempt to
Learning and Research
bridge the gap between the current middle school GO TEC® programming and CTE education which occurs in 11th and 12th grade.
Amelia County increases the inventory of business-ready sites within Virginia's Heartland Region. Amelia County Economic Development Authority recently
Amelia County Regional Commerce Site Development and acquired a 134- acre site on the north side of Rt. 360 and has rezoned the property to Industrial M-1 in June 2023. The due diligence work would elevate the site
3 Amelia County EDA Regional Per Capita FY25 10/8/2024 $100,000 $100,000
Center Planning Grant Infrastructure from a Tier 2 to a Tier 3 in the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) scale. A site suitability study was recently completed indicating the site may be
able to support the Agricultural & Food Processing sector in the absence of water and sewer being served.
The Institute of Advanced Learning and Research supports the accelerated growth of the controlled environmental agriculture (CEA) industry cluster in Region
Three. This proposal seeks to align and strengthen data centers and the CEA clusters by exploring co-location strategies – co-locating high-tech greenhouses and
Co-locating Date Centers and CEA Institute of Advanced
3 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 12/10/2024 $52,000 $26,020 data centers to leverage waste heat from the data centers. Greenhouses currently rely on fossil-fuel boilers to generate hot water for heating, and by utilizing
Greenhouses Feasibility Project Learning and Research
waste heat from data centers, operational costs can be reduced while improving unit economics and reducing the carbon footprint. Waste heat could also be
used for power generation through Waste-Heat-to-Power (WHP) technologies, such as thermoelectric generators, or for cooling via absorption chillers.
The Institute of Advanced Learning and Research actively enhances the talent pathways for the advanced manufacturing and controlled environment
Talent Pipeline Management to Support
Institute of Advanced agriculture industries in GO Virginia Region Three. By offering specialized training programs, workshops, and partnerships with local businesses, the institute
3 Advanced Manufacturing and Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 12/10/2024 $116,745 $59,842
Learning and Research aims to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in these growing fields. This initiative not only supports workforce development but
Controlled Environment Agriculture
also fosters innovation and economic growth within the region, ultimately benefiting the community and its future workforce.
Virginia Chamber of Commerce will position Virginia’s business sector to lead an AI-driven workforce assessment to identify skill gaps in high priority, statewide
sectors that will support a skilled workforce capable of adapting to AI advancements and help develop a pipeline of eligible GO Virginia implementation projects.
Artificial Intelligence Statewide Virginia Chamber of
3 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 2/28/2025 $100,000 $50,000 An advisory workgroup led by VACC will include representatives from each of the other 7 GO Virginia regions (one staff member and one Council member
Landscape Assessment Commerce
representative), local economic developers from Region 2, local economic developers and K12 school division representative from Region 3. The workgroup will
also include representatives from other state agencies including the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Virginia Office of Education Economics, the
Southern Virginai Community College through EDA and Tobacco Commission funding, will construct a 6,000+ square feet Power Line Worker Training School on
SVCC Occupational Training Facility Southern Virginia a 4.82-acre lot. The site is adjacent to the current workforce development training center located at the Blackstone campus of Southside Virginia Community
3 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 6/10/2025 $570,000 $285,000
Expansion Community College College (SVCC). In addition, the existing truck driver training range will be enlarged to facilitate an increase in the number of students to be served. The new
construction will allow for an expansion of workforce development training opportunities in the power line worker and truck driving training programs.
The SOVA Innovation Hub plans to establish the SOVA Fab Lab project, a state-of-the-art digital fabrication laboratory in South Boston to accelerate
SOVA Fab Lab at the SOVA Innovation SOVA Innovation Hub entrepreneurship, strengthen STEM talent pathways, and support regional innovation in Southern Virginia. The Fab Lab will serve as a hands-on learning and
3 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY25 6/10/2025 $510,000 $260,000
Campus Corporation business incubation space, equipped with 3D printers, laser cutters, electronics workstations, and other digital fabrication tools that enable rapid prototyping
and product development.
Commonwealth Center for The CCAM Pilot Program helps with the need for middle- and high-skilled advanced manufacturing workers through the implementation of two pilot training
4 CCAM Pilot Program Advanced Manufacturing Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 2/13/2018 $430,000 $626,023 programs, which will be housed at the to-be-constructed CCAM Apprenticeship Academy. The pilot programs include a Mechatronics Workforce Training
(CCAM) Program and a Transitioning Military Program for Industrial Maintenance Mechanics.
Lighthouse Labs will pilot the Lighthouse U program, which will feature a series of events and training opportunities to prepare students to launch their own
Virginia Biotechnology
businesses after graduation. As part of the collaboration, Lighthouse Labs will introduce a new summer cohort program for recent graduates of Virginia
4 Lighthouse U Research Park dba Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 8/14/2018 $1,000,000 $1,298,563
universities that participated in Lighthouse U. This project expands the recently piloted Virginia Start-Up Spring Break and Pre-Accelerator programs through
Lighthouse Labs
VCU.
Southeastern Institute of The CampusRVA initiative will serve as a marketplace, both online and offline, for internships and job openings to facilitate the matching of employers with
4 CampusRVA Research (SIR) and Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 8/14/2018 $100,000 $105,000 potential employees. Based on the successful CampusPhilly model, CampusRVA will promote the capital region as an attractive place to live, work, and play,
ChamberRVA supporting the region’s goal of retaining Virginia’s recent college graduates.
The MAMaC Regional Industrial Facility Authority (RIFA) advances the 1,600-acre certified mega-site to a Tier 4, by completing the engineering plans to upgrade
MAMaC Regional Industrial Site Development and
4 MaMaC Mega-Site Competitive Statewide Competitive FY18 8/14/2018 $2,217,500 $3,262,175 the Greensville County Water and Sewer Authority’s Water Treatment Plant, constructing the gravity fed sewer system to the site and constructing the wetlands
Facility Authority (RIFA) Infrastructure
mitigation bank that will be necessary to accommodate future development on the site.
Virginia's Gateway Region Site Virginia's Growth Region Site Development and The Virginia Gateway Region evaluates a portfolio of 89 sites and works with an engineering firm to characterize each site according to the Virginia Business
4 Regional Per Capita FY19 3/12/2019 $100,000 $119,757
Readiness (VGR) Infrastructure Ready Site Program (VBSP) and develop a plan for advancing sites to Tier 4 characterization with cost estimates.
Activation Capital implements two efforts designed to advance the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Region Four. One effort will create, administer, and maintain a
4 Activation Capital Activation Capital Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 6/24/2019 $100,000 $100,000 learning platform for a resource guide to help serve the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The other effort will create a Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
assistance program to assist with grant writing and administration for potential applicants.
The CCAM Business Plan creates a ready-to-implement plan for the Advanced Manufacturing Academy (AMA) with John Tyler Community College (Tyler). The
Commonwealth Center for
plan will 1) increase high school to community college dual enrollment programs, 2) replicate Region 3’s GO-TEC initiatives, 3) work to deliver more
4 CCAM Business Plan Advanced Manufacturing Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 6/24/2019 $50,000 $50,500
opportunities with CCAM’s university members, and 4) outline the financial and human resources assets required to support delivery of advanced
(CCAM)
manufacturing educational services.
A follow-on implementation for CampusRVA. This project is designed to help area employers fill high-paying jobs with talent developed locally by 1) promoting
the Richmond region as a good place for young professionals, 2) providing resources to move and assimilate to the region, and 3) developing a job-matching
4 CampusRVA Phase 2 ChamberRVA Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 12/9/2019 $500,000 $500,000
platform. The program will be operated by Chamber RVA who runs many related programs including Richmond, an internship onboarding program and HYPE
(Helping Young Professionals Engage).
Richard Bland College has created a business plan to develop key partnerships and establish an Applied Associates Degree in Aeronautics with a stackable
Richard Bland College Aeronautics Richard Bland College of
4 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 12/9/2019 $50,000 $50,000 credential in small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). The certificate program will give students the necessary training and experience to sit for their Remote Pilot
Program William & Mary
License and equip them to fill high-demand jobs in the region in logistics and IT clusters.
Virginia Commonwealth University has increased the capacity and output of the tech talent pipeline throughout the region. Alongside numerous partners
throughout the Greater Richmond area and the Virginia Gateway Region, VCU’s College of Engineering will create a comprehensive plan to better align the
Developing Region 4's Tech Talent Virginia Commmonwealth region’s existing tech talent educational programs and help expand Region 4’s tech talent pipeline to address needs now and in the future. Activities will include:
4 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 4/17/2020 $100,000 $100,000
Pipeline University 1) cataloging and mapping the Region’s existing digital economy workforce activities, 2) identifying specific opportunities to improve alignment and close gaps,
3) developing proposals for expanded partnerships between industries, the region’s school systems, community colleges and universities and 4) creating
strategies to facilitate innovation across the Tech Talent Pipeline.
Virginia Commmonwealth Virginia Commonwealth University has developed a pharmaceutical engineering cluster that will drive commercialization, new business, and job growth. This
VCU Pharmaceutical and Chemical
4 University College of Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 4/17/2020 $100,000 $100,000 plan supports the commercialization of a new pharmaceutical manufacturing technology and develop a pharmaceutical engineering cluster in Region 4. The
Engineering Commercialization
Engineering strategic plan will include a market analysis, workforce needs assessment, communications strategy, and recommendations for commercialization applications.
Demand+Supply=Success: Virtual Reynolds Community
The Reynolds Community College Educational Foundation created roadmaps for those unemployed due to COVID-19 to get back to work and improve the
4 Connections for Businesses and College Educational Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 5/28/2020 $80,600 $150,000
connection between job seekers and businesses with open jobs.
Jobseekers Foundation
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
ChamberRVA is dedicated to supporting small businesses as they navigate the reopening and recovery phases following the COVID-19 pandemic. Our efforts
emphasize ensuring employee safety through the implementation of health guidelines and best practices. In addition, we aim to bolster consumer confidence
4 ForwardRVA ChamberRVA Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 5/28/2020 $100,000 $240,000 by providing resources and strategies that help businesses adapt to new market conditions. Through workshops, financial assistance, and community
engagement, ChamberRVA is committed to fostering a resilient business environment that prioritizes the health and well-being of both employees and
customers.
The Idea Factory played a crucial role in fostering economic recovery by actively supporting aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly those who have been affected
by job losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic. By providing resources such as mentorship, funding opportunities, and training programs, the organization not
4 Idea Factory StartupVA Regional ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 6/4/2020 $50,000 $25,000 only nurtured innovative business concepts but also helped individuals transition into new careers. This initiative aimed to empower unemployed individuals by
equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to successfully launch their own ventures, ultimately contributing to job creation and revitalizing the
local economy.
Old Dominion University - Virginia Virtual Workforce has outlined “common pain points” for Virginia manufacturers so they can implement solution-based training programs into college
Virginia Modeling, Analysis and dual enrollment degrees using Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality and simulation to target 5,000 students, and engage manufacturers in using their content
4 Virginia Virtual Workforce Statewide Competitive Workforce Development FY21 9/22/2020 $1,500,000 $1,500,000
and Simulation Center instruction and Virginia Virtual Workforce to design and develop state-of the art training. This project builds on the previously funded COVA MAP project
(ODU-VMASC) ($1,532,500 awarded Oct 2019), which focused on maritime and shipbuilding and used the interactive training framework developed by ODU (FAST).
Virginia Community Capital serves Greater Richmond region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by filling a financial gap and providing key resources to small
4 Capital Region SBDC Launch Virginia Community Capital Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 9/28/2020 $30,500 $102,551 businesses to help grow and sustain their operations during the COVID-19 crisis. to establish the Greater Richmond Small Business Development Center (GRVA
SBDC) to serve the Greater Richmond area.
Virginia State University is committed to supporting manufacturers facing challenges due to the economic downturn resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. To
address the pressing need for skilled professionals in the engineering and manufacturing sectors, the university has established a series of internships. These
Engineering Interns + Manufacturers= Virginia State University
4 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 10/29/2020 $39,200 $19,600 internships are designed not only to provide valuable hands-on experience for students but also to help build a robust talent pipeline that meets the evolving
Success Squared (S2) (VSU)
demands of the industry. Through this initiative, Virginia State University aims to foster a new generation of skilled engineers and manufacturing experts,
ensuring a brighter economic future for the region.
VA Bio-Connect is set to create four new BioHubs that will serve as vital centers for innovation and collaboration within the biotechnology sector. In addition to
establishing these new hubs, the initiative will facilitate connections among all regional BioHubs across the state. This collaborative network will enable
4 Virginia Bio-Connect Virginia Biotech Association Statewide Competitive Cluster Scale-Up FY21 12/7/2020 $1,599,653 $1,599,653 participants to share best practices, enhance workforce development, and exchange valuable resources. Furthermore, it will provide mentorship opportunities
to foster growth and support for emerging biotech professionals and startups. By promoting these synergies, VA Bio-Connect aims to create a robust
biotechnology ecosystem that drives innovation and economic growth across the region.
CCAM establishes a Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) Virginia chapter and launch a FAME Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT)
4 FAME CCAM Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 3/16/2021 $613,000 $309,046 program, which includes earning an associate degree, hand-on work experience with an employer, and a reinforcement of skills needed for a manufacturing
career.
The Virginia Restaurant and Hotel Workforce COVID Recovery and Upskilling Program supports the upskill of underemployed workers with free COVID-related
Virginia Restaurant and Hotel
and skills training to help businesses succeed by ensuring employees are well trained and able to address COVID-related issues, while allowing the sectors to
4 Workforce COVID Recovery and VRLTA Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 3/16/2021 $132,500 $80,000
rebound more quickly and to further develop an industry-specific job board to match out-of-work employees to employers.
Upskilling Program
The Virginia Gateway Region conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the Sussex County mega site's marketability, focusing on its potential as a key location
Site Development and for industrial development. One major challenge identified was the inadequate water capacity to adequately support the site’s needs. To overcome this barrier,
4 Sussex County Water Study Virginia's Gateway Region Regional Per Capita FY21 4/15/2021 $96,000 $49,000
Infrastructure the region collaborated with local authorities and utility providers to develop a strategic plan aimed at enhancing water infrastructure. This initiative not only
aims to enhance the site's appeal to potential businesses but also fosters long-term economic growth in the area.
The Virginia Gateway Region has successfully progressed 15 properties, encompassing a total of 1,652 acres in Region 4, to Tier 4 on the Virginia Economic
Site Development and Development Partnership (VEDP) Site Characterization scale. This achievement was made possible through the thorough completion of all necessary due
4 VGR Sites Virginia's Gateway Region Regional Per Capita FY20 6/15/2021 $1,634,407 $988,417
Infrastructure diligence tasks associated with each site, including environmental assessments, infrastructure evaluations, and compliance with local regulations. These efforts
not only enhance the attractiveness of these sites for potential development but also contribute to the overall economic growth and sustainability of the region.
Virginia State University significantly strengthened the number of scalable minority enterprises that contribute to the economy of Region 4 by establishing the
Minority Small Business Launch Center. This center not only provides a comprehensive suite of supportive services—including business planning, financial
VSU Minority Small Business Launch Virginia State University
4 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 6/15/2021 $453,000 $228,500 management, marketing strategies, and access to funding resources—but also fosters an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. By offering mentorship
Center (VSU)
programs, workshops, and networking opportunities, the center aims to empower aspiring minority entrepreneurs and equip them with the necessary tools and
knowledge to successfully launch and grow their businesses, ultimately driving economic growth in the region.
The Lighthouse Labs Alumni Program extends an additional nine months of comprehensive support to alumni who have successfully completed the pre-seed
accelerator program. This program is specifically designed for early-stage companies that demonstrate significant growth potential. During this nine-month
4 Lighthouse Labs Alumni Program Lighthouse Labs Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY21 9/23/2021 $429,000 $234,510 period, alumni have access to a variety of resources, including mentorship from industry experts, networking opportunities, and specialized workshops aimed at
refining their business strategies. This initiative is intended to empower graduates as they navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses and securing further
investment, ultimately helping them to achieve their long-term goals.
Activation Capital is dedicated to accelerating the growth of the emerging Pharmaceutical Manufacturing cluster in Region 4. By fostering innovation and
collaboration, it aims to establish the region as an international leader in advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing and research and development (R&D). This
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Cluster
4 Activation Capital Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 9/23/2021 $1,400,000 $702,480 strategic focus is expected to not only create high-paying jobs but also enhance recruitment initiatives, support the expansion of existing companies, and attract
Scaleup
new investments. As a result, there will be a significant boost in high-tech, tradeable sector activities, ensuring sustainable economic development and
positioning Region 4 as a hub for cutting-edge pharmaceutical solutions.
New Kent County has successfully established a robust training program that develops skilled welders, effectively addressing the increasing demand for welding
professionals in Region Four. This initiative not only aims to fill a critical skills gap but also positions the county as a key contributor to the local economy by
New Kent County/RCC Welding
4 New Kent County Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 9/23/2021 $300,000 $150,000 ensuring that industries have access to a qualified workforce. The comprehensive training curriculum includes hands-on experience and industry-relevant
Program
instruction, preparing these welders for a variety of roles in manufacturing and construction, ultimately fostering job growth and economic stability in the
region.
StartupVA is dedicated to nurturing the entrepreneurial growth that has emerged in response to the pandemic. By providing vital resources, mentorship, and
Growing the Pipeline: Expanding Early support, we aim to cultivate and expand the ecosystem of early-stage startups in Region Four. Our mission is to empower aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools
4 StartupVA Regional ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 12/15/2021 $250,000 $125,000
State Entrepreneurial Support and guidance they need to innovate, thrive, and contribute to the local economy, ultimately fostering a vibrant community of diverse and sustainable
businesses..
John Tyler Community College has taken significant steps to address the workforce demands of the rapidly growing advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing
sector. By developing targeted training programs and partnerships with local industries, the college has created a robust pipeline of skilled technicians. This
Building a Pharmaceutical John Tyler Community
4 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 3/10/2022 $482,330 $246,160 initiative not only equips students with the necessary knowledge and hands-on experience but also fosters diversity within the workforce, ensuring a wide range
Manufacturing Talent Pipeline College
of perspectives and skills are represented in this vital field. As a result, the community college plays a crucial role in supporting the region's economic growth
and meeting the evolving needs of the pharmaceutical industry.
Activation Capital has devised a comprehensive strategy aimed at defining and implementing targeted recommendations to enhance the entrepreneurial
ecosystem in Region Four. This initiative focuses on identifying specific areas for growth, fostering collaboration among local stakeholders, and leveraging
4 Activation Capital REI for Region 4 Activation Capital Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 4/21/2022 $300,000 $150,000
resources to support startups and small businesses. By addressing key challenges and opportunities within the region, Activation Capital seeks to cultivate an
environment that nurtures innovation, encourages investment, and empowers entrepreneurs to thrive.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Reynolds Community College creates jobs and awards credentials for skilled laboratory technicians by creating a fully-equipped learning laboratory at the
Advancing a Regional Skilled Ecosystem Reynolds Community
4 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 6/13/2023 $253,500 $167,000 Reynolds Downtown Campus and developing and launching a laboratory technician major in the Associate of Science degree pathways, and works with industry
(ARISE) for Life Sciences College
partners to bring in entry-level employees.
CCAM created work-based learning opportunities and jobs in targeted industries across Region 4 by creating Career Connection labs as a part of the GO TEC hub-
Commonwealth Center for
GO TEC Region4 Career Connections and-spoke model to allow middle schoolers to explore career pathways. Complementing the GO TEC 2025 statewide competitive grant award in which CCAM
4 Advanced Manufacturing Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 6/13/2023 $1,150,571 $619,561
Labs was selected to serve as the In Region Coordinating Entity (IRCE), Region 4 is applying for funding to establish five Career Connections labs in participating
(CCAM)
middle schools to engage middle school students in STEM career pathways experiences using the GO TEC model.
Brightpoint Community College built proven models from past GO Virginia work in the region in the Information Technology and Advanced Pharmaceutical
Region 4 Talent Pathways Initiative Brightpoint Community
4 Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 12/12/2023 $250,000 $125,000 Manufacturing sectors to create and leverage regional alliances to guide and validate findings for the required components of the Talent Pathways Initiative
Planning College
Program.
The Greater Richmond Partnership has developed a comprehensive plan that outlines actionable strategies aimed at fostering growth in specific industry sectors
within the Greater Richmond subregion. This plan identifies key industries with high potential for development, including technology, healthcare, and
Greater Richmond
4 Greater Richmond Cluster Analysis Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY24 4/25/2024 $87,500 $87,500 manufacturing, and provides targeted initiatives designed to attract investment, enhance workforce skills, and promote collaboration among local businesses
Partnership
and educational institutions. By focusing on these sectors, the Partnership aims to stimulate economic growth and create a more vibrant business environment
in the region.
Activation Capital has expanded the Bioscience industry in GO Virginia Region 4. This project takes a multi-faceted approach to growing this industry by
providing programming and interventions. First, the project will assess the research portfolio in the region to prioritize the concepts with the highest potential
for commercialization. Services for feasibility assessments, IP registration, and other early-stage steps will be provided to assist with maturing research into
4 Region 4 - Project VITAL Activation Capital Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY24 6/4/2024 $5,000,000 $4,557,000 commercially viable enterprises. In addition, the project will expand programming for startups further along in the business formation process by assisting with
identifying funding opportunities. Finally, the project will identify and implement opportunities to integrate advanced computing methods into the bioscience
industry and expand programming to connect the bioscience industry within the region. To date, the subgrantee has been successful in using previous, modest
GO Virginia investment to leverage tens of millions of dollars in federal funding; this project would be an opportunity to build on this past work..
Virginia Commonwealth University has played a key role in diversifying the regional economy by assessing the needs of employers in specialized areas of
Information Technology. The university is preparing to train students to meet these specific needs. This project aims to integrate advanced computing methods
Future AI Learning and Cloud Network Virginia Commonwealth
4 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 9/4/2024 $100,000 $50,000 into the bioscience industry and to enhance programming that connects the bioscience industry with the region. To date, the subgrantee has successfully
Project University
utilized previous modest investments from GO Virginia to secure tens of millions of dollars in federal funding. This project presents an opportunity to build upon
that past success.
The Rowanty Technical Center will establish an Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics Program serving Dinwiddie County, Prince George County, and Sussex County. The
program would enable graduates to finish with a workforce readiness certification, forklift certification, OSHA10 certification, and Smarta Automation Certification
Advanced Engineering and
4 Rowanty Technical Center Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 6/10/2025 $520,000 $260,000 Credentials. It would begin by focusing on high school students and eventually look to expand to adult learners and include work-based learning opportunities such as
Manufacturing Technician Program internships. The program looks to enforce talent pipelines by connecting with GO TEC programming offered in the localities for middle schoolers on one end, and with
Brightpoint Community College programming for dual enrollment or after high school on the other.
The Commonwealth Center for Advanced Manufacturing (CCAM) seeks funding to expand the reach of the GO TEC program in GO Virginia Region 4. This organization
Commonwealth Center for
previously established GO TEC career connections labs in schools in Dinwiddie County, Surry County, Sussex County, the City of Petersburg, the City of Colonial Heights, and
4 GO TEC Expansion Advanced Manufacturing Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 6/10/2025 $970,835 $513,940
the City of Hopewell as part of a GO Virginia project, which was approved in June 2023. This project would add new career connections in middle schools in Charles City
(CCAM) County, Prince George County, and in three middle schools in the City of Richmond.
Virginia’s Gateway Region, a Regional Economic Development Organization (REDO) covering the southern portion of GO Virginia Region 4, will identify and prioritize
VGR: Preparing the Region for Energy- Site Development and potential industrial sites for development within their footprint. The organization has added new localities in recent years, and has seen a shift in targeted end-users
4 Virginia's Gateway Region Regional Per Capita FY26 8/22/2025 $100,000 $50,000
Intensive Industry Infrastructure towards more energy-intensive industries. The project identify the top 10-20 sites which meet criteria for the target industry, and prioritize the top five to 10 sites for up-
tiering along VEDP’s Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) scale.
Start Up Virginia will expand its programming in GO Virginia Region 4. To do so, the organization will a three-pronged approach. First, stage-specific incubator
programming will help founders develop their business with tailored training relevant for the stage their firm is at. Second, Start Up Virginia will make its
Empowering Foudners Through Every
4 StartupVA Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY26 9/9/2025 $1,473,710 $737,112 programming more accessible by offering services at a new building in the Willow Lawn area of Henrico County, with the strong support of the Henrico County
Stage
Economic Development Authority. Thirdly, Start Up Virginia will provide capital access programming to founders, in order to help new founders raise the capital
needed to grow and expand.
Old Dominion University - The Simulation Cetner has developed an advanced collaboration hub at Old Dominion University’s Tri-Cities Campus. The Virginia Cyber Alliance will feature
Virginia Cyber Alliance (Prev. known as Virginia Modeling, Analysis online platforms, industry partnerships, a virtual demonstration environment for cybersecurity analysis modules, and a work-based learning initiative aimed at
5 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/12/2017 $642,713 $750,100
HR Cyber CoLab) Year 1 and Simulation Center helping transitioning military personnel and recent graduates secure internships with firms specializing in cybersecurity, data analytics, unmanned systems, and
(ODU-VMASC) aerospace.
Virginia Digital Shipbuilding is establishing a comprehensive regional and statewide curriculum, along with an advanced co-laboratory facility, designed to train
approximately 8,500 current and future workers in the emerging field of digital manufacturing. This innovative program will not only enhance the skills of the
Old Dominion University -
workforce but also align with the latest technological advancements in manufacturing processes. By focusing on the unique needs of the Hampton Roads
Virginia Modeling, Analysis
5 Virginia Digital Shipbuilding Year 1 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/12/2017 $647,540 $1,877,000 region, the initiative aims to bolster the existing advanced manufacturing and shipbuilding clusters. Furthermore, it will strengthen the entire supply chain
and Simulation Center
throughout the Commonwealth, fostering economic growth and ensuring that Virginia remains a leader in the maritime and manufacturing industries. Through
(ODU-VMASC)
collaboration with local businesses, educational institutions, and industry leaders, this project promises to create a highly skilled labor force ready to meet the
demands of the digital economy.
The 757 Seed Fund has been established to create a robust administrative framework aimed at providing seed-stage investments to Virginia's most promising
innovation-driven and high-growth companies. This initiative is designed to foster entrepreneurship and stimulate economic development in the region. By
launching this new seed fund in tandem with the efforts of the 757 Angels, we intend to cultivate a diverse portfolio of quality, investable companies. These
5 757 Seed Fund 757 Seed Fund Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 2/13/2018 $140,000 $256,000
companies are essential for establishing a thriving innovation economy in the Hampton Roads region. The goal is to build a supportive ecosystem that not only
accelerates the growth of these enterprises but also attracts further investment and talented individuals to the area, ultimately enhancing the overall economic
landscape of Hampton Roads.
The Kings Creek Commerce Center facilitated the initial steps needed to establish a regional unmanned systems facility on state-owned surplus land in York
Virginia Peninsula Chamber Site Development and County. The new facility will provide an open area and infrastructure for use by public institutions, private companies and individuals to develop, test and
5 Kings Creek Commerce Center Regional Per Capita FY18 2/13/2018 $150,000 $150,000
Foundation Infrastructure demonstrate unmanned systems. The goal of this first phase would be to establish a new RIFA governance structure for cost and revenue sharing and to
prepare architecture and engineering plans for development of site infrastructure.
Old Dominion University -
Virginia Digital Shipbuilding: Year 2 helped create a regional and statewide program curriculum and co-lab facility to train approximately 8,500 current and
Virginia Modeling, Analysis
5 Virginia Digital Shipbuilding: Year 2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/11/2018 $647,540 $1,877,000 future workers to work in the new digital manufacturing environment. The project will support Hampton Roads’ existing advanced manufacturing and
and Simulation Center
shipbuilding clusters, with impacts to the supply-chain throughout the Commonwealth.
(ODU-VMASC)
Old Dominion University -
The Simulation Center at ODU developed a highly advanced collaboration hub at Old Dominion University’s Tri-Cities Campus. The Virginia Cyber Alliance will
Virginia Modeling, Analysis
5 Virginia Cyber Alliance Year 2 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 12/11/2018 $642,713 $750,100 consist of online platforms, industry partnerships, a virtual demonstration environment for cybersecurity analysis modules and a work-based learning initiative
and Simulation Center
for transitioning military and recent graduates to intern with firms that specialize in cybersecurity, data analytics and unmanned systems and aerospace.
(ODU-VMASC)
757 Angels has significantly enhanced its mission to bridge the gap between promising startup and early-stage companies and accessible smart growth capital.
To further this initiative, they have taken a proactive step by hiring a dedicated program director, aimed at strengthening their organizational capacity and
5 757 Angel Network 757 Angels Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 3/12/2019 $240,000 $479,000 effectiveness. As the first centralized hub for angel seed stage capital in the Hampton Roads region, 757 Angels boasts a robust membership of 120 investors
and has successfully deployed an impressive $40 million in funding to Virginia-based companies. This strategic investment not only supports local entrepreneurs
but also fosters innovation and economic growth within the community, solidifying 757 Angels' role as a pivotal player in the startup ecosystem of Virginia.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Accomack-Northampton Planning District Commission (ANPDC) conducted a two-phased approach to 1) complete the Eastern Shore Main Force Sewer
Accomack-Northampton
Accomack-Northampton Sewer and Site Development and Transmission Line study and 2) evaluate 25+ acre sites with the AAPDC footprint. The sewer line study will help the Eastern Shore increase it sewer capacity and
5 Planning District Regional Per Capita FY19 3/12/2019 $65,000 $65,000
Sites Study Infrastructure enable it to meet the minimum infrastructure requirements to become eligible for the Virginia Business Ready Site Program (VBRSP). AAPDC will inventory and
Commission (ANPDC)
identify sites to be characterized through an engineering firm.
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council, along with the Hampton Roads Workforce Foundation and the Greater Peninsula Workforce Board, will facilitate
Hampton Roads Coalition for Talent Hampton Roads Workforce systematic collaboration, engagement, and investment among major partners in talent development. This initiative will create a new senior-level position
5 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 3/12/2019 $99,705 $100,000
Development Council responsible for developing implementation and communication plans. This individual will convene senior business leaders and regional workforce providers to
identify and address regional needs in real-time.
The Eastern Shore Foundation will develop a pilot program to help create a model for a rural entrepreneurial ecosystem along the Eastern Shore. The project
5 The GIG Eastern Shore Foundation Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 9/10/2019 $85,117 $115,728 will provide a “Hot Desk” coworker startup business space and a Maker Space that will provide training/certifications in woodworking, metalworking, welding,
3D CAD modeling, and 3D printing at a facility in the Town of Exmore.
757 Accelerate, in partnership with 757 Angels and E&M Consulting, will convene key stakeholders to conduct a gap analysis, develop best practices, and
5 REI: 757 757 Accelerate Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 12/9/2019 $266,667 $133,333 incorporate existing Situational Analysis and TEConomy recommendations to develop a comprehensive plan for the Region 5 entrepreneurial ecosystem. In
addition, they will create a long-term financial plan for the prioritized implementation activities for Region 5.
Old Dominion University - The Simulation Center at ODU helps facilitate and create industry partners and prospective students, identifies workforce gaps, and develops an innovative and
Coastal Virginia Maritime Advancement Virginia Modeling, Analysis new framework (smart mobile devices) for delivering cutting-edge curriculum to support the maritime industry. They will work with the existing network of
5 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 12/9/2019 $1,532,500 $1,636,500
Programs (COVA MAP) and Simulation Center maritime program providers and focus on gaps identified through prior research, with a focus on emergent technologies. The initiative's overall goal is to
(ODU-VMASC) position Hampton Roads as a global leader in the maritime industry and increase the number of skilled workers.
The Campus757 business plan offered an online and offline platform to connect local job seekers with regional employers, using the previously funded
CampusRVA project as a model for Region 5. This will help identify region-wide gaps in the workforce and develop plans with partners to close those gaps. The
Hampton Roads Workforce
5 Campus757 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 3/17/2020 $95,838 $96,500 Hampton Roads Workforce Council will develop a Campus757 business plan and an online and offline platform to connect local job seekers with regional
Council
employers, using the previously funded CampusRVA project as a model for Region 5. This will help identify region-wide gaps in the workforce and develop plans
with partners to close those gaps.
The Eastern Shore Foundation has developed a comprehensive approach to help coastal Virginia generate an accurate and robust database. This database aims
Eastern Shore of Virginia Hydro Drone
to identify and evaluate marine-based economic development opportunities within the region, while also addressing the educational and training needs
5 Near Shore Shallow Water Eastern Shore Foundation Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 5/12/2020 $99,300 $92,680
essential for workforce development. By gathering and analyzing data related to local marine resources, industry trends, and community needs, the foundation
Bayrhymetric Survey Program
seeks to create a strategic framework that supports sustainable growth and enhances the region's economic resilience.
The Hampton Roads Alliance formed ten Action Framework Committees to 1) formulate and share information that helps restore fully business operations; 2)
757 Recovery and Resilience Action
5 Hampton Roads Alliance Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/3/2020 $100,000 $100,000 identify the future challenges and opportunities for their respective industries; and 3) create a concise plan that will help accelerate the region’s long-term
Framework
rebound. All committee work will be shared and metrics will be tracked through the 757recovery.com online platform.
The Hampton Roads Economic Development Alliance has successfully developed an Offshore Wind (OSW) supply chain by strategically targeting and attracting
suppliers to relocate to the region. This initiative not only enhances the local economy but also positions Hampton Roads as a key player in the growing
Offshore Wind Supply Chain Hub Hampton Roads Economic
5 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/23/2020 $529,788 $290,840 renewable energy sector. By fostering partnerships and providing resources, the Alliance aims to create a robust network of businesses that contribute to the
Development Program Development Alliance
production and maintenance of offshore wind energy infrastructure. This commitment to building a sustainable future is vital for meeting energy demands and
reducing environmental impact.
The Greater Williamsburg Target Industry Sector Analysis identifies its updated industry cluster analysis as the last one was completed in 2016. As a region that
Greater Williamsburg Target Industry Greater Williamsburg
5 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 7/31/2020 $36,375 $18,244 heavily relies on the hospitality and tourism industry, the region has been hit hard by the COVID-19 epidemic with double-digit unemployment levels. Updating
Sector Analysis Partnership
the industry cluster analysis will allow the region to develop an implementable business development strategy and marketing plan
The Hampton Roads Planning District Commission has successfully elevated a portfolio of three existing sites along the Virginia Business Readiness Scale to Tier
IV status. This significant advancement involves comprehensive due diligence work on a combined total of 495 acres located in Isle of Wight County, Newport
Hampton Roads Economic Development Hampton Roads Planning Site Development and
5 Regional Per Capita FY20 9/22/2020 $1,122,240 $8,056,960 News, and Virginia Beach. Achieving Tier IV designation indicates that these sites are now recognized for their readiness to support business development and
Sites Readiness Program District Commission Infrastructure
investment, providing essential infrastructure and favorable conditions for prospective businesses. This initiative not only enhances the economic landscape of
the region but also underscores the commitment of local authorities to foster growth and promote job creation.
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council developed a targeted talent pipeline for the maritime industry in Hampton Roads. HRWC’s approach includes the
Hampton Roads Workforce Council Hampton Roads Workforce following elements: extensive employer engagement, aligning higher education curriculum and mandatory job requirements, on the job and incumbent worker
5 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 9/22/2020 $663,696 $332,000
Talent Pipeline Implmentation Project Council training, regional apprenticeships, military/veteran outreach, college student engagement and graduate retention, talent portal development, soft skills
development, a workforce development alliance among local community colleges and out of market talent recruitment.
Hampton Roads Alliance developed a feasibility analysis and action plan for a Regional Robotics Innovation Hub based in Hampton Roads to accelerate and
interconnect technology innovation in robotics, machine learning, advanced manufacturing, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence in Hampton Roads to
5 Regional Robotics Innovation Hub Study Hampton Roads Alliance Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY21 10/19/2020 $73,000 $38,000
advance autonomous systems research and development, manufacturing, digital shipbuilding and repair, distribution and logistics, water technologies,
modeling and simulation, and other target industries.
Virginia Ship Repair addresses the strong training demand by investing in virtual at four locations – Tidewater Community College, Thomas Nelson Community
College, Paul D Camp Community College, and the Apprentice School to assist those currently unemployed and backfill the workers removed in the high-risk
Virginia Virtual Maritime Trades Virginia Ship Repair categories forced to take a leave of absence in the shipbuilding and ship repair industry. The addition to these virtual and simulated components to existing
5 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 10/19/2020 $100,000 $200,000
Training (VVMTT) Foundation trades training program will address the current need by allowing greater social distancing among trainees and minimize touch points on manufacturing
equipment or training mockup structures. The simulations will put students in realistic jobs settings where they can have work scenarios replicated in a safe
environment without the risk of injury, damage to equipment, loss of materials, or exposure to the pandemic.
RVA-757 Connects plays a pivotal role in enhancing the megaregion's collective talent pool by systematically identifying existing gaps in skills and resources.
Through comprehensive analysis and research, it uncovers major trends that are likely to influence the future of the workforce. By addressing these gaps and
5 RVA-757 Connects RVA-757 Connects Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY21 11/19/2020 $90,000 $45,000
fostering an environment of continuous improvement, they not only prepares individuals for emerging opportunities but also ensures that the megaregion
remains competitive and resilient in an ever-evolving landscape.
Tidewater Community College has successfully increased its capacity to meet the growing demand for its Marine Trades Training program, which focuses on
Marines Trades Program Expansion Tidewater Community welding and marine coating training. This enhancement allows the college to accommodate more students while adhering to strict COVID-19 safety guidelines,
5 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 11/20/2020 $99,137 $49,569
(MTPE) College ensuring safe social distancing practices throughout the training process. By doing so, TCC is committed to providing high-quality education and practical skills
that are essential for careers in the marine trades industry, all while prioritizing the health and safety of its students and staff.
757 Accelerate offers comprehensive staffing support for a duration of up to six months, designed to ensure the sustained success of both the 757 Accelerate
and Startup Studios programming. This initiative is crucial not only for the continuation of these programs but also for maintaining and enhancing the capacity
5 757 Collab Bridge 757 Acclerate Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY21 12/18/2020 $32,000 $120,024 that has been established in Region Five. By providing dedicated staffing resources, we aim to facilitate operational efficiency, foster innovation, and nurture the
entrepreneurial ecosystem within the region. This support will empower local startups and organizations to thrive, while reinforcing the skills and resources
necessary for long-term growth and development.
The Startup Stability Program (SSP) will provide co-working spaces rental assistance and mentor services at the Bloom in Portsmouth and Percolator Space in
Norfolk within Region Five’s identified targeted clusters. All applicants will be vetted by a selection committee comprised of individuals from Black BRAND,
Portsmouth Development Percolator, Bloom, and select members from the PDF’s Board of Directors. SSP will provide companies with the ability to obtain immediate and free office
5 Startup Stability Program Regional ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 3/16/2021 $197,000 $235,295
Foundation space and supportive services to increase revenue, begin gradually paying into their rent, and eventually scale into successful businesses. Key activities will
include marketing and recruitment of 15 startups at Bloom and 15 startups at the Percolator, education and training provided by mentors, and rental
assistance.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council has conducted a thorough analysis of the percentage of college students in the Hampton Roads region who choose to
stay after graduation to pursue full-time employment and internships. This initiative is crucial, as it not only highlights the importance of retaining local talent
Hampton Roads Workforce but also addresses the pressing workforce shortages faced by businesses in the area. By forging connections between regional employers and the graduates
5 Campus757 Implementation Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY21 6/15/2021 $500,000 $250,000
Council from local colleges and universities, the Council seeks to create a direct pipeline of skilled individuals ready to meet the needs of the labor market. This
collaboration will not only enhance job opportunities for students but also contribute to the overall economic growth and sustainability of the Hampton Roads
community.
757 Collab continues building momentum and developing new, innovation and entrepreneurship programming, capacity, and services to early-stage companies
by bringing together an accelerator, private capital, collaborative space, and community outreach programs – four tools critical to fostering entrepreneurial
757 Accelerate dba 757 activity. 757 Collab is a collaborative funding vehicle that will provide coordination services for three critical entrepreneurial support resources: 757 Angels, 757
5 757 Collab Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY21 6/15/2021 $2,415,573 $1,390,286
Collab Accelerate, and 757 Startup Studios. 757 Collab furthers the mission of 757 Angels and 757 Accelerate by streamlining processes, personnel, and services.
Housing each of these functions under one roof will create efficiencies and opportunities for greater density of entrepreneurial activity, increase collaboration
and education, and deeper corporate engagement.
The Old Dominion University Research Foundation has created and implemented a cost-effective, cloud-based compliance system designed to assist Virginia's
Old Dominion University Department of Defense contractors in obtaining Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) accreditation. Additionally, the Foundation is developing
5 Cybersecurity Job Creation System Statewide Competitive Workforce Development FY21 6/15/2021 $1,450,000 $1,450,000
Research Foundation an education program focused on NIST 800-171 and CMMC, which will be delivered by Old Dominion University and Eastern Shore Community College, along
with other 4-VA affiliated universities and participating community colleges.
Portsmouth Public Schools has developed a robust connection between the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) programs available in
the region’s high schools and the specific workforce needs of the advanced manufacturing industry. This initiative focuses on aligning the curriculum and hands-
Setting Pathways that Activate Real- on learning experiences with the skills and knowledge that local employers are seeking. By strengthening this relationship, the schools aim to better equip high
5 Portsmouth Public Schools Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY21 8/5/2021 $100,000 $55,000
World Knowledge (SPARK) school juniors and seniors for successful careers, enabling them to seamlessly transition into the workforce upon graduation. This proactive approach not only
supports students in gaining relevant skills but also addresses the demands of the local economy, ultimately fostering a more skilled workforce in advanced
manufacturing.
Hampton Roads Alliance evaluated the projected growth of the region and analyzed the energy infrastructure to support this level of growth. Hampton Roads
has been and will likely remain a net energy importer. From a land use perspective, the region is better suited to focus on industrial development. The
Hampton Roads Regional Energy
5 Hampton Roads Alliance Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY22 8/5/2021 $84,000 $42,000 development of an energy strategy will also help Southwest Virginia in its mission to diversify its economy and create new investment opportunities. The
Master Plan
Hampton Roads Alliance plans to explore collaborating with InvestSWVA and the Energy DELTA Lab in the development of a mutually beneficial, bi-regional
partnership.
Neighborhood prepared unemployed and under-employed residents of South Norfolk, disproportionally impacted by the pandemic, with the skills to be
gainfully employed in a career that provides a sustainable living wage. As a result of the COVID pandemic, residents of South Norfolk have been impacted
disproportionately compared to residents of other neighborhoods in the City of Chesapeake when it comes to unemployment and underemployment, housing
Career and Community Development
5 Neighborhood Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 8/15/2021 $85,222 $42,611 and food insecurity, and poverty. Neighborhood’s Career & Development Program proposes to expand by relocating from a 620 sf building to a larger 2,400 sf
Expansion Program
facility to meet the workforce demand, while remaining safely socially distanced. Neighborhood provides 6-month program that runs twice a year to provide
“leaders” in the community with soft skills, personal development, community engagement, and jobs skills training in high demand jobs of shipbuilding and ship
repair, and cybersecurity and information technology.
The ODU Research Foundation study examined how network nodes and routes/corridors utilizing air, ground, and water through unmanned systems could
Unmanned Autonomous Systems (UxS) Old Dominion University
5 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 10/28/2021 $100,000 $74,500 expedite the transport of goods, services, and travelers between currently underutilized entry points and leverage Upper Chesapeake Bay routes. It would also
Route/Corridor Network Study Research Foundation
assess operational and technical requirements and evaluate communications infrastructure capabilities.
SIR will develop a strategic growth plan that coordinates, directs and accelerates the digital infrastructure community and stakeholders in making the I-64
Innovation Corridor a Global Internet Hub. The initiative’s approach will be to first recruit the I-64 Innovation Corridor a Global Internet Hub Growth Plan
I-64 Innovation Corridor Internet Hub Southern Institute for
5 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY22 5/5/2022 $100,000 $50,000 steering committee to meet monthly to develop the plan and which will encompass Region 4 and 5 participating localities, RVA-757 connects, private sector
Growth Plan Initiative Research (SIR)
energy and digital infrastructure companies (including owners of offshore cables and data integration centers), economic development organizations and
chambers of commerce.
MEET will extend and expand the workforce development begun through the previously GO Virginia-funded project, COVA MAP, which created online courses
for Outside Machinists and Deck Electricians. Like COVA MAP, courses created through MEET by ODU will be designed for both online delivery and in-class
participation. Through partnerships between ODU, Tidewater Community College (TCC), New College Institute, and Q.E.D Systems (QED), MEET will provide a
Maritime Entry-to-Employment Training Old Dominion University
5 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 6/14/2022 $1,090,527 $563,565 deliberate, coordinated training pipeline from an individual’s entry into the maritime training world, all the way to the achievement of trade qualifications
(MEET) Research Foundation
and/or certificates and readiness for employment. Students will complete the basic course either online or in-person, then begin to develop necessary skills and
understanding with interactive games and simulations. Since first submission, the project has expanded to support workforce needs in the telecommunications
industry, specifically broadband.
Hampton Roads Planning District Commission leveraged funds to complete due diligence work recommended by earlier studies, including the Enhanced Site
Hampton Roads Economic Development Hampton Roads Planning Site Development and Characterization project recently performed by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP, 2019), for two sites in Region 5, helping to accelerate
5 Regional Per Capita FY23 6/14/2022 $3,751,545 $10,476,310
Sites Readiness: Phase II District Commission Infrastructure their development to Tier 4 and complete a new site characterization study for a third site. This effort will assist in promoting the availability of shovel-ready
sites to prospective businesses, which would in turn help to create higher paying jobs in Hampton Roads.
The Virginia Tech Foundation scaled up the clean energy industry in Hampton Roads through green hydrogen production while addressing critical energy
challenges in the region and reducing cost. The proposal has identified three main objectives in helping advance a green hydrogen industry lab in the City of
Demonstration Site for Clean Energy
5 Virginia Tech Foundation Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY23 3/14/2023 $1,497,452 $1,200,423 Newport News to help drive energy across Hampton Roads: 1) Initiate 3-5 hydrogen transition projects to drive local industry investments, 2) Establish a
Transition to Green Hydrogen (HRH2)
hydrogen competency/demo center to educate and attract new business to Virginia, and 3) Create advanced workforce and talent programs to support the
clean energy sector.
The Hampton Roads Workforce Council defined talent pathways for Region 5’s targeted industries. The Region 5 Council selected the Hampton Roads
Workforce Council (HRWC) to serve as the Talent Pathways Planning Initiative industry cluster talent coordinating entity as the regional workforce convening
Region 5 Talent Pathways Initiative Hampton Roads Workforce
5 Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 3/14/2023 $250,000 $125,000 organization that has a proven track record of providing seamless services among various workforce programs and providing community leadership around
(TPI) Council
workforce issues in GOVA Region 5. Utilizing a methodology that begins with demand planning and an employer collaborative, HRWC will utilize labor market
information and projections verified by the collaborative to form a tailored approach to each of the two identified industry clusters detailed in the plan.
The Hampton Roads Alliance is dedicated to ensuring that the aviation industry can meet the demands of the region. In collaboration with the Norfolk Airport
Hampton Roads Regional Aviation, Authority, the Peninsula Airport Commission, and the Virginia Institute for Spaceflight and Autonomy, the Alliance will conduct an assessment aimed at
5 Hampton Roads Alliance Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 7/11/2023 $100,000 $50,000
Aerospace, and Unmanned Systems enhancing the aviation, aerospace, and unmanned systems sectors in Region 5. This study will evaluate the current conditions of the region's aviation industry,
project future demands, and provide recommendations on how to effectively meet those demands.
LifeNet Health has created a talent pipeline aimed at students interested in pursuing careers in the life sciences. The project will initiate a pilot program that
introduces students to the life science field. This program will encompass both classroom and laboratory studies, as well as networking opportunities and an
5 Life Science Virginia LifeNet Health Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 8/22/2023 $40,000 $22,885
emphasis on developing soft skills. Henrico County Public Schools and Virginia Beach Public Schools have agreed to collaborate on this project by hosting the
pilot for one semester.
The Paul D. Camp Community College project was designed to enhance workforce development by addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in
the logistics industry. Recognizing the importance of mechatronics—an interdisciplinary field that combines mechanics, electronics, computer science, and
Workforce Development Plan for Paul D. Camp Community
5 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 4/16/2024 $100,000 $100,000 telecommunications—the initiative aimed to identify specific training needs and opportunities within this sector. By providing targeted mechatronics training,
Western Tidewater College
the project seeks to prepare individuals for higher-paying job positions, ultimately contributing to the economic growth of the region and improving career
prospects for local residents.
This Hampton Roads Alliance study would focus on finding an optimal location for unmanned systems testing and training, which utilizes greater range and
Site Development and capabilities than current operations allow for. This report will build on past work done by regional partners to grow the unmanned systems industry cluster. The
5 UAS BVLOS Key Site Initiative Hampton Roads Alliance Regional Per Capita FY25 8/15/2024 $35,392 $17,696
Infrastructure final deliverable would be a site selection report, enabling locality and industry partners to develop a more well-informed implementation grant application
around equipping the site and developing a workforce training curriculum.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable is dedicated to enhancing the diversification of the regional economy. This initiative involves a thorough evaluation
Advancing Commercialization and
Hampton Roads Executive of the potential to leverage the advanced capabilities of the High-Performance Data Facility at Jefferson Labs. By doing so, the Roundtable aims to identify and
5 Innovation Opportunities for Jefferson Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 1/8/2025 $99,900 $55,000
Roundtable cultivate opportunities that will stimulate growth and expansion within the target industries of Region Five. This collaborative effort seeks to foster innovation,
Lab
attract investment, and ultimately strengthen the economic landscape of the region.
The Economic Access Initiative project aims to significantly enhance the workforce in the shipbuilding, repair, logistics, port operations, and warehousing
industries. By providing targeted career pathway placements, the project focuses on empowering individuals from low-income communities. It offers
5 Economic Access Initiative Neighborhood Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 3/11/2025 $305,000 $152,500 comprehensive training programs, mentorship opportunities, and connections to employers, ensuring that participants acquire the necessary skills and
knowledge to succeed in these high-demand fields. Through these efforts, the initiative not only seeks to expand the talent pool but also to promote economic
mobility and create sustainable career opportunities for those who are often overlooked.
The Hampton Roads Alliance (the regional economic development organization in Hampton Roads) requests GO Virginia funds to identify growth opportunities within a
number of the targeted industry sectors in the region. A previous phase of the project managed and funded by the Alliance and its partners identified what target industry
5 Hampton Roads Investment Playbook Hampton Roads Alliance Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 5/29/2025 $100,000 $50,000 sectors should be prioritized for study; this would conduct the analysis. This phase would look to develop seven to ten projects to grow the target industries and relevant
funding structures for the projects. The application notes that Hampton Roads has historically focused on end assembly of products; this project would focus on where the
region could expand opportunities to play a role in innovation and research earlier in processes. The Hampton Roads Workforce Council (the workforce board in the
region) is a partner in the project, contributing match and ensuring that the project proposals will align with regional workforce strategies.
Hampton Roads Advanced
5 FY26 9/9/2025 $669,783 $389,360 Genedge will expand collaborative robotic (COBOTIC) welding technology integration and training in GO Virginia Region 5. Currently, the organization offers these services
Manufacturing Modernization with GENEDGE Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up
to larger shipyards and affiliates in the region through funding from the National Shipbuilding Research Program. This project will broaden access to small and medium-
Emerging Robotics (HAMMER) Program
sized manufacturers by providing COBOTIC integration assistance, support in developing weld-quality procedures, and guidance on accessing capital equipment funding.
Westmoreland County has embarked on an exciting initiative to develop a state-of-the-art, 20,000-square-foot flexible office space in the heart of Montross.
This new facility is designed to meet the diverse needs of businesses in the region, offering modern amenities and adaptable work environments. It will be one
Site Development and
6 Flex Space Due Diligence Westmoreland County Regional Per Capita FY18 2/13/2018 $50,000 $50,000 of the few office spaces of this size and quality available in the Northern Neck, providing an invaluable resource for both small businesses and larger enterprises
Infrastructure
looking to establish or expand their presence in the area. The project aims to enhance the local economy by attracting new businesses and fostering innovation
in the community.
The Middle Peninsula Alliance designed and implemented a sustainable business model for the Pamunkey Tribe to deliver high-speed broadband to underserved
Site Development and Middle Peninsula and Northern Neck areas. MPA will work closely with the Pamunkey Tribe to develop a business plan and create a new legal enterprise to be
6 Pamunkey Net Business Plan Middle Peninsula Alliance Regional Per Capita FY18 2/13/2018 $50,000 $83,000
Infrastructure owned by the tribe. MPA will also review existing studies on the region’s broadband infrastructure to ensure that existing assets and service areas are
considered for future infrastructure development plans.
Westmoreland County established a new 4,000-square-foot welding training facility to offer welding training courses through Rappahannock Community
6 Welding Training Program Westmoreland County Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 6/12/2018 $130,000 $130,500 College (RCC) and other training programs as needed. RCC will begin offering daytime welding courses and expanding evening courses, which are currently at
capacity, as offered at the Northern Neck Technical Center. RCC will train at least 40 welders in four basic and specialty welding areas.
The Virginia Institute of Maritime Science (VIMS) convened a group of regional stakeholders and national resiliency experts to identify best practices for future
Virginia Sea Grant Resiliency Ecosystem Virginia Institute of resilience activities for a multi‐regional water management economy. VASG will also convene workgroups to identify key gaps in the Virginia economic
6 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 6/12/2018 $49,996 $49,996
Development Maritime Science (VIMS) development ecosystem surrounding water technologies and coastal resiliency and develop an operational framework for operating a comprehensive, multi-
sector network of resilience stakeholders.
The University of Mary Washington established a cybersecurity preparatory program to train Certified Information Systems Security Professionals (CISSP).
University of Mary
6 Cybersecurity Certification Program Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 3/12/2019 $110,000 $110,000 UMW will help businesses in the region fill current openings that are difficult to fill due to the inadequate supply of certified professionals. In partnerships with
Washington
GCC and RCC, UMW will implement a 40-hour certification program, as well as a structured pre-study curriculum.
The Stafford County Economic Development Authority addressed the market demand for a technology-based entrepreneurial development program and
Fredericksburg Region Cyber & Smart
Stafford County Economic accelerator around the cyber/IT environment in the Fredericksburg region. Stafford County EDA, in partnership with King George and Fredericksburg, will
6 Tech Entrepreneurial Development Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 4/17/2020 $75,000 $97,500
Development Authority implement a test program that will allow access to the market and build a business model for a sustained program using the successful RIOT framework, to help
Program
explore the potential market for hosting a technology-based accelerator focusing on tech and cyber opportunities.
The Northern Neck Planning District Commission identified training gaps and delivered to employers what they need to grow and expand their businesses within
Northern Neck Workforce Training Northern Neck Planning the Rappahannock Community College (RCC) service area. The Northern Neck Planning District Commission, with partnerships from RCC and the Bay
6 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 4/17/2020 $62,500 $62,500
Feasibility & Site Selection District Commission Consortium Workforce Development Board, will develop a blueprint of what is needed by local companies and other workforce needs, designate levels of
prioritization of implementation, cost estimates, and actionable steps to improve the quality and quantity of workforce training in the region.
The Northern Neck Planning District Commission conducted an in-depth study to assess the feasibility of establishing a commercial kitchen at the Longwood
Hull Springs site. This kitchen is intended to support local food producers and culinary students in the Northern Neck region of Virginia. The project aims to
Commercial Kitchen at Longwood Hull Northern Neck Planning
6 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 5/11/2020 $50,000 $50,000 enhance culinary education, promote local agriculture, and provide a collaborative space where budding chefs can gain practical experience while also
Springs Study District Commission
benefiting local farmers by utilizing their fresh produce. The commission's analysis considered various factors, including potential costs, community needs, and
the impact on the local economy, ensuring that the initiative aligns with the region's goals for sustainability and growth.
The Fredericksburg Regional Industry Cluster Authority has significantly enhanced the ability of localities within the Fredericksburg region to work together on
site development initiatives. By identifying key industry clusters and their specific needs, the analysis facilitates targeted collaboration among municipalities,
Fredericksburg Regional Industrial Sites Fredericksburg Regional Site Development and
6 Regional Per Capita FY18 5/11/2020 $14,665 $7,335 businesses, and other stakeholders. This collective effort aims to optimize resources, share best practices, and strategically plan for sustainable economic
Authority Alliance Infrastructure
growth within the region. As a result, the localities are better positioned to attract investment, support workforce development, and foster a thriving business
environment.
The Fredericksburg Regional Industry Cluster Analysis is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the different industries operating within the
Fredericksburg region, which is part of the larger Region 6. This analysis seeks to identify key industry sectors, their specific characteristics, and trends that can
Fredericksburg Regional Industry Fredericksburg Regional
6 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY19 5/11/2020 $30,000 $15,000 shape the area’s economic landscape. By understanding the composition and dynamics of these industries, local stakeholders can better tailor their workforce
Cluster Analysis Alliance
development initiatives and economic strategies. The goal is to foster sustainable economic growth and enhance employment opportunities in the region,
ensuring that both current and future workforce needs are met efficiently.
The study positioned MPPDC/MPCBPAA as a potential temporary "market maker," a pivotal role designed to enhance electronic commerce. This role aims to
Middle Peninsula bridge the gap between consumers who are eager to purchase locally sourced products and the vendors capable of supplying them. By facilitating connections
Middle Peninsula Seafood & Agriculture
6 Chesapeake Bay Public Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 5/11/2020 $77,000 $38,500 and transactions between these two groups, MPPDC/MPCBPAA can not only support local economies but also promote the benefits of purchasing from local
E-Marketplace Development
Access Authority businesses. This initiative fosters a more sustainable and community-focused marketplace, ensuring that both consumers' needs and suppliers' abilities are
effectively aligned for mutual success.
The Telehealth Needs Assessment has been completed to thoroughly evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of integrating a dedicated telehealth wing
into the proposed King and Queen Telework Business Incubator Center. This assessment aims to identify the specific telehealth services that could be offered,
6 Telehealth Needs Assessment King and Queen County Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/19/2020 $50,000 $25,000 the target population's needs, and the overall impact on community health. Additionally, it will explore how telehealth can enhance the business incubator's
mission by providing accessible healthcare solutions and fostering collaboration between healthcare providers and entrepreneurs. The findings will serve as a
crucial foundation for the development of this innovative project.
The Westmoreland Workforce Training Center has secured additional funding to facilitate its operations as it prepares to resume training activities this fall. This
Westmoreland Workforce Training financial support is crucial, as the center plays a vital role in equipping the local workforce with the necessary skills and training needed in the region. Without
6 Westmoreland County Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/25/2020 $36,000 $18,000
Center Extension this funding, the center would face the risk of permanent closure, which would significantly hinder the development of a skilled labor force essential for the
economic growth and sustainability of the community.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Germanna Community College addressed how to provide a continuous supply of qualified individuals entering engineering, information technology,
computer science, and cyber-related professions in the Fredericksburg region. The two-pronged initiative creates a new Engineering Technology-Mechatronics 2-
Germanna Community College Tech Germanna Community
6 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 9/22/2020 $634,938 $398,000 year certificate program and a Computer Science and Cyber Pathway. Activities will include outfitting classrooms and labs with equipment, training and
Talent Pipeline College
certifying high school teachers, developing a web portal with real-time labor market data, financial aid information, and an internship/jobs board, executing an
outreach/promotions campaign and creating a Tech Talent Advisory Group consisting of local tech companies and educational professionals.
Launching a Coastal Resilience and Adaptation Economy involves several strategies to support Region Six: 1) It fosters resilience entrepreneurship through
RISE’s established business plan competition and accelerator services. This includes product performance validation within Region Six’s network of real-world
Launching a Coastal Resilience and Virginia Institute of
6 Statewide Competitive Cluster Scale-Up FY21 12/7/2020 $2,937,163 $3,696,411 research and development (R&D) test sites, such as the Resilience Innovation Center, which expands on the Hampton Roads resilience living laboratory. 2) It
Adaptation Economy Maritime Science (VIMS)
creates a multi-stakeholder, business-focused consortium between Regions Five and Six. This consortium aims to engage the broader business community in
understanding the risks and economic impacts of sea level rise while building the capacity to adopt resilient practices.
The Stafford County Economic Development Authority has significantly enhanced its entrepreneurial support initiatives in the Rappahannock Region, aiming to
foster innovation and business growth. Central to these efforts is the well-established RIoT Accelerator Program (RAP), which provides resources, mentorship,
and networking opportunities for startups and emerging businesses in the tech sector. In addition to RAP, the Authority has rolled out several community-
Stafford County Economic
6 RIoT Accelerator Program Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 6/15/2021 $215,000 $204,500 focused initiatives designed to engage local entrepreneurs and empower them with the tools and support they need to succeed. These comprehensive efforts
Development Authority
are anchored in the cutting-edge Virginia Smart Community Testbed, located in Stafford. This technology-driven hub serves as a living laboratory for testing and
implementing advanced solutions that address real-world challenges faced by communities. By leveraging the resources available at the Testbed, local
businesses can pilot innovative technologies and ideas, promoting economic growth and technological advancement in the region.
The Wireless Research Center, operating under the name RIoT, has introduced three comprehensive six-week pre-accelerator programs designed specifically to
support early-stage entrepreneurs in transforming their innovative ideas into viable businesses. These programs aim to equip participants with essential
Wireless Research Center
6 Riot Pre-Accelerator Program Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 12/15/2021 $96,804 $80,000 resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities, enabling them to refine their business concepts, develop effective strategies, and navigate the challenges
dba RIoT
of launching a startup. By fostering a collaborative environment, RIoT seeks to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to bring their visions to life and contribute to
the growth of the local business ecosystem
The Fredericksburg Chamber in partnership with five school divisions, Rappahannock Goodwill Career Works, Germanna Community College, and the University
of Mary Washington will host an Internship Expo in April 2022 and five hiring workshops throughout the year. Part of the expo will include business seminars on
Federicksburg Regional
6 Internship Expo & Hiring Workshop Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 2/14/2022 $36,000 $37,254 how to successfully host interns. Students in attendance will be selected by their school’s CTE or internship coordinator where students will be encouraged to
Chamber of Commerce
visit booths of interest to dop off their resumes, make connections with business leaders, and schedule interviews. Between 40 and 60 local businesses are
expected to be in attendance.
Rappahannock Community Rappahannock Community College Educational Foundation made advances in the aquaculture industry cluster by expanding high school students'
6 Promoting Careers in Aquaculture College Educational Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 3/14/2022 $100,000 $52,000 understanding of what jobs are available in the aquaculture industry cluster, expanding educational opportunities that meet employers’ needs, and supporting
Foundation internship opportunities that help young people gain experience and awareness.
Rappahannock Community College (RCC) is actively responding to the significant healthcare shortages that have been intensified by the COVID-19 pandemic. In
Rappahannok And Germanna an effort to address this pressing issue, RCC is partnering with Germanna Community College to create and implement a non-credit Patient Care Technician
Rappahannock Community
6 Community Colleges Patient Care Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/14/2022 $306,252 $177,057 program. This program aims to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge needed to support healthcare providers and deliver quality patient care in
College
Technician various medical settings. By collaborating on this initiative, both colleges are committed to enhancing workforce development in the healthcare sector and
ensuring that communities have access to trained professionals during these challenging times.
King George County Economic Development and Tourism Department helped create new businesses, internships, and mentorships across Region 6 through a
King George County
pitch competition for students to present business design ideas and document the pilot-building experiences in a Resource Guide that can be offered to other
6 Young Entrepreneurs Program Economic Development Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 11/16/2022 $98,000 $90,272
schools or youth-oriented programs. The project aims to create collaboration between government, schools, business, civic/youth organizations, and existing
and Tourism Department
entrepreneurs. The Resource Guide will be tailored to opportunities and challenges for entrepreneurs in Region 6.
Stafford County Public Schools developed a career investigation and readiness curriculum for grades 6, 7, and 8 called “Pathways to Success” – all middle-
Stafford County Public schoolers are required to complete a career investigations course in Virginia selected from either a state-approved list or from a developed course content
6 Pathways to Success Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 11/21/2022 $100,000 $50,000
Schools approved and provided by the school division. The program will provide teacher training modules and deliver the training for up to 50 educators from SCPS and
other regional school district partners.
The Bay Area Workforce Development Board defined talent pathways for Region 6’s targeted industries. The Region 6 Council selected the Bay Area Workforce
Development Board (BCWDB) to serve as the Talent Pathways Planning Initiative industry cluster talent coordinating entity as the regional workforce convening
Region 6 Talent Pathways Initiative Bay Area Workforce
6 Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 12/13/2022 $250,000 $125,000 organization that has a proven track record of providing seamless services among various workforce programs and providing community leadership around
(TPI) Planning Development Board
workforce issues in GOVA Region 6. Using a sub-regional approach, the BCWDC and Region 6 council will develop a plan to create robust talent pipelines specific
to the region’s industry clusters.
The Middle Peninsula Planning District Commission (MPPDC) is applying of r $100,000 in GO Virginia funds to conduct due diligence professional services
West Point Airport Industrial Site Middle Peninsula Planning Site Development and necessary to raise the VEDP Business Ready Sites tier level of t he Middle Peninsula Airport property from a Tier 2 to a Tier 3. The site has potential to support
6 Regional Per Capita FY23 1/23/2023 $100,000 $65,000
Evaluation District Commission Infrastructure businesses in the following sectors: aquaculture/seafood/commercial fishing/marine industries, forest products, manufacturing (those not requiring municipal
water and sewer), professional services and resiliency related businesses.
Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce addressed and filled work-based learning opportunities and connect talent with jobs across Region 6. Following
Fredericksburg Regional the previously awarded GO Virginia Enhanced Capacity Building grant that awarded funds to Fredericksburg Chamber in partnership with five school divisions,
6 Workforce Now Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 3/14/2023 $250,000 $150,000
Chamber of Commerce Germanna Community College, Rappahannock Goodwill Career Works, and the University of Mary Washington to host an internship expo, this project will help
address workforce shortages and increase work-based learning opportunities.
Stafford County Public Schools addressed the supply of qualified individuals entering the information technology, computer science, and cyber-related
professions. Stafford County Public Schools, in partnership with G3 Community Services, the University of Mary Washington, and a regional coalition of school
Stafford County Public
6 Innovation Pathways Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 3/14/2023 $978,449 $563,962 divisions, is applying for funding to offer IT certifications (CompTIA certifications including IT Fundamentals, A+, Network+, and Security+ series) to students
Schools
across the region through outside of school programming and summer camps to build student awareness of STEM and cybersecurity opportunities. The project
will also train teachers with the same CompTIA certifications to build training capacity
Stafford County Economic Development Authority conducted a feasibility study to determine if opportunities exist in rural localities in Region 6 beyond
“Rappahannock region” to expand the existing Testbed and connect entrepreneurs and companies to solve local issues that may be improved using smart
Expanding Smart Community Tech Stafford County Economic
6 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 4/24/2023 $96,250 $71,340 technology. The project will host a series of local community “discovery” and “project shaping meetings” with local leaders to identify environmental
Entrepreneurship Across Region 6 Development Authority
management, water, stormwater, public safety, traffic, and other community issues. Testbed staff and RioT staff will then identify possible technology solutions
and identify technical solution entrepreneurs or providers that could address these issues using the Testbed and smart technology.
Rivers Region Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Council developed an entrepreneurial ecosystem strategy to define and implement recommendations to grow the
Rivers Region
Region 6 Regional Entrepreneurship Region 6 ecosystem further. The project aims to build capacity for the Rivers Region Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Council by hiring an executive director to carry
6 Entrepreneurial Ecoystem Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 9/12/2023 $300,000 $150,000
Initiative (REI) out the duties of the organization, engage with stakeholders, create recommendations and priorities, and create an REI Strategy and Report and Actional
Council
Strategies Plan documents.
The Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce provides resources for Black-owned businesses to scale their operations through an accelerator program, including
Empower Black Entrepreurs Accelerator Virginia Black Chamber of
6 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY24 10/23/2023 $98,438 $99,738 resources and mentorship, to address the challenges businesses face due to limited access to capital, insufficient networking opportunities, and a lack of
Pilot Program Commerce
business education.
Rappahannock Community Rappahannock Community College Educational Foundation trains students and provides credentials in Diesel Mechanics, Welding, and HVAC programs.
Rappahannock Community College New
6 College Educational Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 12/12/2023 $290,000 $313,500 Rappahannock Community College will renovate a building into a Career Training Center offering evening classes for adult students and day classes for dual
Career Training Center
Foundation enrollment students.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Virginia Tech addressed the aquaculture industry’s talent needs by training students, providing a one-week hands-on education immersion summer course
6 Promoting Careers in Aquaculture 2.0 Virginia Tech Statewide Competitive Workforce Development FY22 12/12/2023 $302,536 $164,733 (Summer Program Aquaculture Training or SPAT), and 75-hour internship placements with local aquaculture businesses. The project increases the region’s
capacity to prepare workers for this industry by providing training to local teachers in the aquaculture curriculum.
The Bay Consortium Workforce Development Board aims to build new capacity to enhance career awareness and define career pathways within the identified
targeted industries. The project will focus on four strategic goals: 1) develop the capacity to serve as the Sector Partnership regional convenor to develop the
Career Advancement and Resource Bay Consortium Workforce foundation for employer-led talent development strategies through employer engagement; 2) define career pathways of the targeted industries influenced by
6 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 12/10/2024 $307,857 $160,891
Education (CARE) Development Board data from employers; 3) address workforce development issues as more significant industry initiatives to foster collaboration through the Sector Partnership
Toolkit and outreach materials; and 4) collect and utilize data to inform collective talent development priorities and ensure actional strategies are implemented
through business
The Virginia Blacktoolkits
Chamber of Commerce addresses the growth and competitiveness of small businesses in the region by providing targeted resources, skills,
Expanding Business Ecosystems (EBE) Virginia Black Chamber of access to mentors, and capital. The program will launch a ten-week program for six cohorts over two years, serving 120 businesses across Region 6. Each cohort
6 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY25 12/10/2024 $300,000 $155,500
Business Accelerator Commerce will focus on specific industries or demographic groups that require tailored support, such as minority-owned businesses, tech startups, or companies in the
manufacturing sector.
Cyber Titans Foundation will prepare high school and colleges students, transitioning service members, and individuals seeking careers in cybersecurity. Cyber
Titans VIP will design a training curriculum and certification pathway through a planning and pilot effort focused on cybersecurity. The planning and pilot phase
Cyber Titans Virginia Internship
6 Cyber Titans Foundation Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 1/22/2025 $99,826 $49,913 will be used to establish necessary partnerships, design the program framework, and create a curriculum tailored to the region’s industry needs. Once the
Program (Cyber Titans VIP)
framework is complete, the program will be piloted with 10 participants in an 8-week internship program, providing hands-on experience in the cybersecurity
field.
Economic Impact Analysis for RIVERE RIVERE will evaluates the economic impact of a 25,000-square-foot facility that supports entrepreneurship and small business growth. Designed as a co-working
6 Ecological Center and Entrepreneurial RIVERE Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY25 2/7/2025 $72,100 $36,050 space, the center will feature specialized areas, advanced technological infrastructure, and equipment to facilitate research and development focusing on river
Ecosystem systems.
The Greater Reedville Association (GRA) has embarked on a multi-part approach to renovate Festival Halle, a former school building and now a community
Virginia Tidewater Aquaculture & Greater Reedville center, located in Reedville, VA. The first element is converting a portion of the space into a commercial kitchen to help local waterman bring their products
6 Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY25 6/10/2025 $280,800 $140,400
Maritime Innovation Incubator Program Association directly into the marketplace and expand into markets outside the region and state. The second element is implementing an incubator program to support
small businesses through specialized resources, skill development, financial tools, and market expansion.
Practice Management Certification University of Mary University of Mary Washington evaluate how healthcare workforce gaps influence economic development in Region 6 industry clusters and to pilot a Practice
6 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 6/27/2025 $78,014 $40,000
Program Washington Management Certification Program aligned with regional healthcare needs and employer demand.
Middlesex County will develop an initial summary of the state of the Blue Catfish industries, including harvesters, processors, and wholesale/retail sales;
River to Table - Blue Catfish Processing identifying options, priorities, and estimates of costs for actionable recommendations to scale up this industry. Additionally, the study will provide an asset map
6 and Marketing Study for the Northern Middlesex County Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY26 8/3/2025 $99,840 $62,590 for existing and potential industry related infrastructure, including ramps/landings, transportation/storage, processing (filets and by products), manufacturing
Neck and Middle Peninsula for non-food uses, and retail/wholesale/restaurants. Recommendations would address landings, cold storage, processing costs and how demand could be
improved and be met by products produced within these regions.
Arlington County provided immediate support to ready-to-be-trained individuals and to newly located or newly established firms in Northern Virginia that are
7 Alexandria-Arlington Workforce Arlington County Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/12/2017 $201,897 $255,049 not supported by federal WIOA/SNAPNET funding. This initiative is a combination of career pathway assistance incumbent working training, upskilling, on-the-
job training and credentialing activities aimed to support the computer services industry.
Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) created a state-of-the-art, 9,000-square-foot Fabrication Laboratory (FabLab) at the NOVA Manassas Campus to
Northern Virginia
7 NOVA Fab Lab Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/12/2017 $250,000 $1,829,000 leverage NOVA Systemic, inspire interest, and encourage future generations to pursue careers in engineering technologies. NOVA will align its engineering
Community College (NVCC)
technology program to meet the needs of private-industry partners, such as Micron Technology and BAE Systems.
Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) built upon the Region’s existing computer services and cybersecurity clusters to create a workforce system that
Northern Virginia effectively attracts, prepares and retains qualified candidates to fill high-demand technology jobs in high-paying occupations, such as programming and
7 Tech Talent Pipeline Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/12/2017 $487,500 $603,425
Community College (NVCC) software development, networking and cybersecurity, and data and data warehousing. Target populations include tech workers who lack the high-demand
credentials, transitioning military veterans, college students, recent graduates, and high school seniors with desired aptitudes.
Northern Virginia Community College (NVCC) expanded the previously awarded Tech Talent Pipeline Initiative, which aims to create a workforce system to
effectively attract, prepare and retain qualified candidates to fill high-demand cybersecurity and IT jobs. NOVA will develop and implement a new
Northern Virginia
7 Tech Talent Pipeline Apprenticeships Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 8/14/2018 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 apprenticeship program, matching 400 apprentices to employers as an alternative career pathway to traditional two- or four-year degrees. GO Virginia funds
Community College (NVCC)
will be used to expand staffing for NOVA Workforce, conduct Tech Talent Pipeline outreach and develop and implement the apprenticeship curriculum and
models.
The Loudoun Education Foundation (LEF) created and implemented an immersive and integrated computer science curriculum in grades 6-12 in Loudoun
Loudoun Education County and partnered with Chesapeake City Public Schools in Region 5. The two participating school systems will allow students to learn computer science and
7 Virginia K-12 Computer Science Pipeline Statewide Competitive Workforce Development FY18 12/9/2019 $2,424,537 $3,948,432
Foundation computational thinking as part of the 6-12 core curriculum, culminating in capstone courses and experiential learning opportunities, including internships at the
high school level.
The Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Northern Virginia EDA to create a “one stop shop” Back to Work Covid-19 resources website
that aggregates data from all organizations engaged in business continuity, business recovery, worker training and retraining, and to promote, disseminate and
Northern Virginia Chamber
7 Back to Work Website and Info Program Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 4/28/2020 $100,000 $50,000 communicate content that specifically addresses business solutions, including access to government programs, via a webinar series. The Northern Virginia
of Commerce
Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Fairfax County EDA, will create a three-video series for entrepreneurs under the Back to Work Covid 19: Back to
Innovation brand. The videos will be available online at the Back to Work Covid-19 Resource Website and will be free to the public.
Steps to Safely Reopen the Economy:
Launch of New Rapid COVID-19 George Mason University developed and scaled-up methods to facilitate a safe return to work. The program’s goals include directly expanding diagnostic
7 Diagnostic Testing, Contact Tracing, and George Mason University Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/2/2020 $100,000 $50,000 testing, evaluating the long-term impacts of COVID-19 on frontline healthcare providers, a population at risk of PTSD, and employing rapid contact tracing
Stress Assessment of Northern Virginia capabilities to encourage safe return-to-work strategies, a critical step to reopen the economy.
Nurses During the COVID-19 Pandemic
George Mason University will lead (1) undertake a comprehensive review of the skills of targeted displaced workers, (2) undertake a comprehensive review of
the required upskilling required for employment in technology and healthcare companies, breaking down the analysis into three categories of companies, (i)
7 Hospitality to Tech Workers Roadmap George Mason University Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 7/27/2020 $90,000 $68,100 government contractors and commercial businesses providing technology solutions and consulting services, (ii) technology product-based businesses and (iii)
non technology businesses that need some employees to have technology skills, (3) review gathered data to identify overlapping areas of opportunity and (4)
develop a roadmap for one or more training programs to address the identified skills gaps.
George Mason University played a vital role in helping established businesses adapt their operational models to effectively respond to changing customer
demands and explore new market opportunities. Through tailored programs and resources, the university facilitated innovative strategies that enabled these
Pivoting Technology Businesses for the
7 George Mason University Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 7/27/2020 $100,000 $55,250 companies to pivot successfully in a dynamic environment. Additionally, GMU provided essential support to emerging tech companies, fostering growth
Post COVID-19 Economy
through mentorship, access to research, and networking opportunities. This comprehensive approach not only enhanced the resilience of existing businesses
but also contributed to the thriving ecosystem of technological innovation in the region.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
George Washington engaged and prepared students for careers in the Biomedical, Lab Sciences, and Pharmaceutical industries. GWU’s Virginia Science and
Governor's Health Sciences Community George Washington Technology Campus in partnership with Alexandria and Arlington Public School Systems will create a mobile Immersive Learning Center that will provide state of
7 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 9/22/2020 $700,000 $1,143,000
Medi-Corps Program University the art technology, simulation and virtual hands-on activities combined with work-based learning to make three entry points to join the region’s workforce
(high school industry certification; stackable credentials with associates degree; and stackable credentials with Bachelor degrees).
Prince William Economic Development Authority developed a 30,000-square-foot Level 2 wet laboratory. Prince William entered into a performance
Prince William Economic
7 Northern Virginia Biosciences Center Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY19 9/22/2020 $500,000 $755,000 agreement with DHCD to ensure the property is constructed, marketed, and remains in use as a Level 2 wet lab. At the end of the performance period, the
Development Authority
equipment will be conveyed to the property owner.
George Mason University -
Virginia Small Business Development The Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will expand its services for small businesses by providing matching funds required to access the full
7 Virginia Small Business Statewide ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 9/22/2020 $1,000,000 $600,000
Center (SBDC) Recovery Effort funding available from the Small Business Administration (SBA), which has a 1:1 match requirement with 50 percent cash.
Development Center
The Smart City Works, Inc. expanded its capital investment opportunity, accelerated the growth of high-tech startups through expansion of their business
7 NOVA Smart Region Initiative Smart City Works, Inc. Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 3/16/2021 $1,287,580 $1,572,750
acceleration program, and created pathways to commercialization through efforts to help smart-tech companies validate the product-fit of their innovation.
Women’s Society of The Virginia Cyber Skills Academy assisted COVID-impacted workers to obtain skill certifications (reskill or upskill) to enable them to move into high-demand
7 Virginia Cyber Skills Academy Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 3/16/2021 $699,995 $678,785
Cyberjutsu cyber security roles.
The Northern Virginia Economic Development Alliance went through a strategic planning process to determine the best approaches to organization and
7 Innovation Forward Loudoun County EDA Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 3/17/2021 $100,000 $50,000
management, budgeting and funding, staffing, policy development, business development activities, and brand development.
Refraction, Inc., in collaboration with George Mason University, launched Accelerate 2022, an ambitious multi-day pitch competition designed to connect
innovative startups and high-growth companies in Northern Virginia with investors from across the United States. This event not only provided a platform for
7 Accelerate 2022 Refraction, Inc. Regional ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 3/17/2021 $100,000 $50,000 entrepreneurs to showcase their pioneering ideas and business models but also aimed to foster a dynamic ecosystem for investment in the region. By bringing
together key stakeholders, including seasoned investors, industry experts, and budding entrepreneurs, Accelerate 2022 sought to stimulate economic growth
and encourage the exchange of knowledge and resources essential for the success of emerging companies.
The DEEP-IET approach seeks to target successful student outcomes with touch points at multiple points along the STEM talent pipeline including enhanced
programming for precollege and community college students including block scheduling, summer bridge programs, and internships and a credentialing program
NOVA Dual Enrollment Expansion
Northern Virginia to prepare regional high school teachers to teach credit-bearing dual enrollment (DE) courses in IET, developing a faster and more cost-effective path to
7 Program for Information and Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY19 6/15/2021 $1,106,777 $558,632
Community College (NOVA) employment. The DEEP-IET is also proposing to develop a veteran’s outreach program to transition veterans and military-connected NOVA Community College
Engineering Technology (DEEP IET)
students to IET programs.
George Mason University -
This project at George Mason University expanded the network of ICAP mentors by creating 4 new full-time positions to provide services to support start-ups
7 Expansion of ICAP Mentor Network Virginia Small Business Statewide ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 6/15/2021 $882,794 $441,415
and early stage companies to access funding, develop strategic plans, acquire talent, access SBIR grants or angel/venture investments and launch new products.
Development Center
NOVA Labs, Inc. developed a plan to expand the Innovation Center, add new tools and equipment, and support programs for member companies that will
7 Innovation Center Roadmap NOVA Labs, Inc. Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 9/15/2021 $100,000 $52,000 contribute to their success and growth. NOVA Labs will hire consultants to conduct a facilities, equipment and programming needs assessment, develop an
implementation plan and outreach strategy to publicize capabilities and build relationships with regional partners in the business startup ecosystem.
Marymount College increased the number of economically disadvantaged college students in technology jobs in Region 7 while addressing the Region 7
7 Tech Set Marymount College Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 9/23/2021 $425,000 $230,000
technology companies' identified need for entry-level workers.
Future Kings undertook a comprehensive study to assess the feasibility of extending the Future Kings program beyond its current location at Northern Virginia
The Future Kings STEM Pipeline Project Community College's Woodbridge campus. The goal is to explore the potential for expansion into Region 7, thereby reaching a broader audience and providing
7 Future Kings Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 11/22/2021 $97,000 $76,000
Focused on Black and Latino Boys valuable resources and support to more students. This evaluation included an analysis of the needs of the communities in Region 7, the availability of resources,
and the potential impact of the program in fostering leadership and personal development among young individuals in that area.
George Mason University brought together various stakeholders to establish and enhance an entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region. This initiative aimed to
create a comprehensive strategy that not only identifies the key components necessary for fostering entrepreneurship but also designates a dedicated
7 Convene and Collaborate - Region 7 REI George Mason University Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 12/15/2021 $193,751 $132,690 coordinator to oversee and facilitate collaboration among local businesses, startups, and support organizations. By leveraging the collective expertise and
resources of the community, the university seeks to cultivate a vibrant environment that promotes innovation, economic growth, and sustainable development
for aspiring entrepreneurs.
George Mason University has significantly contributed to the development of Virginia’s nanotechnology sector by providing comprehensive hands-on workforce
training programs. These initiatives are designed to equip students and professionals with the essential skills needed in this rapidly evolving field. Additionally,
7 Nano-IMAGINE George Mason University Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 6/14/2022 $2,500,000 $1,250,000 the university has been instrumental in supporting both the launch and growth of high-tech nanotechnology startups. Through strategic partnerships, research
collaborations, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, George Mason University fosters innovation and entrepreneurship, ensuring that Virginia remains a
leader in nanotechnology advancements.
The Northern Virginia Regional Commission analyzed data to understand the impact of FDI in Region 7. The project will help the region understand the role
Quantitative Metrics to Determine Northern Virginia Regional
7 Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY22 8/18/2022 $30,000 $15,000 international business plays in its economy. By identifying the impact of FDI, the region will be able to identify strategies to diversity economic development and
Effects on Foreign Investment Commission
move the region to less dependency on the federal government.
ACCELERATE is a year-long process of engaging tech entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem partners. It culminates in an investor conference and student/high
growth startup competition that showcases Virginia as a powerhouse for innovation and business opportunity. The conference convenes angel and venture
7 Accelerate Investor Conferences George Mason University Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 9/13/2022 $532,269 $311,500 investors from Region 7 and across the US to learn, network, and connect with a rich pipeline of local, tech-focused, high-growth companies. The competition
targets entrepreneurs with early through mid-seed stage businesses with the potential to have an immediate, positive, and significant impact on our local
economy, as well as student concepts with longer-term business viability.
Cyber Guild gained recognition as a cybersecurity hub, attracting talent to meaningful careers in cybersecurity, and attracting investors to build and retain
cybersecurity businesses locally. The project will create a 2023-2027 strategic plan focusing organization leadership and resources on programs that will
7 Cyber Guild Cyber Guild Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY22 10/20/2022 $100,000 $50,000
advance the mission, determine robust metrics to show value and inform future work, and establish the core resources and staff to deliver successful
implementation.
The project team led by GMU’s Center for Health Workforce and Institute for Biohealth Innovation in partnership with Phoenix Advantage, providing contract
Project Collective Impact: Life Science George Mason University services, will conduct a workforce gap analysis in the life sciences industry by assessing employer needs, employment trends, workforce supply, and demand
7 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 11/16/2022 $100,000 $50,013
Workforce Preparedness (GMU) projections. Findings will support the design of a program that enables the region to augment and strengthen life science workforce development using an
“employer-led” workforce preparedness model.
The Virginia Tech Continuing and Professional Education (CPE) provided connections, marketed, and created a talent pipeline for the emerging nanotechnology
industry in Virginia. VNNI will first seek to connect higher education institutions across the Commonwealth with existing nanotechnology facilities. These
Virginia Tech Continuing
(VAST) - Virginia Alliance for “nodes” will be connected to the central hub located at Virginia Tech by an advanced cloud-based system. This project seeks to ensure coordination among
7 and Professional Education Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY22 3/14/2023 $3,300,000 $1,675,000
Semiconductor Technology these facilities at several institutions of higher education through a cloud-based infrastructure management system, centralized policies and MOUs, and
(CPE)
multimedia training modules. The VNNI system will also help to create a coordinated pipeline of talent for the semiconductor industry through three certificate
programs, which will all fall under the new Fast Track to Semiconductor Careers (FTSC) program.
The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) defined talent pathways for Region 7’s Computer Software, Cybersecurity, and Emerging
Center for Regional Technologies targeted industries. The Region 7 Council selected the Arlington-based nonprofit Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC),
7 Region 7 Talent Pathways Initiative Economic Competitiveness Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 9/12/2023 $250,000 $125,000 collaborating with the George Mason University Center for Regional Analysis, as the Talent Pathways Planning Initiative Industry cluster talent coordinating
(CREC) entity. CREC will work with Region 7 council leadership to identify a Research Advisory Group consisting of businesses, local stakeholder groups, and subject
matter experts from educational institutions to guide the project.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
The Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC) defined talent pathways for Region 7’s targeted industries: Computer Software, Cybersecurity, and
Career Investigations: Pathways to Your Alexandria City Public Emerging Technologies. The Region 7 Council selected the Arlington-based nonprofit Center for Regional Economic Competitiveness (CREC), collaborating with
7 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 12/20/2023 $100,000 $100,035
Future Schools the George Mason University Center for Regional Analysis, as the Talent Pathways Planning Initiative Industry cluster talent coordinating entity. CREC will work
with Region 7 council leadership to identify a Research Advisory Group of businesses.
Future Kings accelerated entry level job readiness for emerging biomedical job opportunities in life sciences for underserved black and Latino populations by
increasing the pool of interested students in the K-12 system and providing two internship opportunities for graduate students and college credit opportunities
Future Kings Life Sciences Workforce for secondary students. This program will accomplish its project goal through a two-part process: 1) increasing the number of graduate school candidates who
7 Future Kings Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 1/17/2024 $100,000 $100,000
Development Pilot Program meet the qualifications of the most in-demand jobs of area life science employers, and 2) creating a pipeline of area secondary school students who are
prepared and motivated to pursue a career in the life science industry and have the opportunity to earn college credits through American Council on Education
(ACE).
Through partnerships with the economic development offices of Prince William County and the City of Manassas, GMU will work with a third-party contractor
to bring together public and private stakeholders to the table to ensure a strategic plan and next steps laid out to create an Innovation District (also known as a
SciTech Innovation District Planning
7 George Mason University Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY24 3/21/2024 $75,000 $75,000 Research Park). Success will be dependent on a business plan that 1) is informed by SWOT analysis; 2) is inclusive of all assets including areas of strength for
Grant
research, educational programming, workforce and business counts, and ecosystem support organizations; 3) has a sustainable and scalable financial and
operations plans; and 4) is guided by a collaborative governance model.
George Mason University will launch of the implementation phase for the Region 7 Innovation District, a regional innovation ecosystem centered on GMU's
SciTech Campus in Prince William County. The district builds on the concept and groundwork developed through a prior GO Virginia planning grant to accelerate
7 Innovation District George Mason University Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 6/10/2025 $2,604,410 $1,302,598
the growth of advanced industries, research commercialization, entrepreneurship, workforce development, and international business attraction. Spanning
3,800 acres and supported by cross-sector partnerships, the Innovation District aims to drive scalable, long-term economic growth across Northern Virginia.
Byers Technical Institute has taken significant steps to address the increasing demand for skilled welders in the Shenandoah Valley. To meet this need, the
institute has expanded its training capacity by investing in state-of-the-art equipment, hiring additional qualified instructors, and broadening its course offerings.
8 RAAMP Welding Training Byers Technical Institute Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 2/13/2018 $100,000 $100,000 As a result, the RAAMP program will now be able to train 20 more welders in each 40-week cohort, providing students with the specialized skills and knowledge
required to excel in the welding industry. This initiative not only helps to fill local workforce gaps but also equips graduates with valuable career opportunities in
a vital trade.
Blue Ridge Community College initiated a new cybersecurity workforce development program focused on producing new industry credentials (CompTIA
BRCC Cyber Security Workforce Blue Ridge Community Security+) to attract cybersecurity jobs to the Shenandoah Valley. BRCC will arrange internship opportunities with regional employers and establish an advisory
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 6/12/2018 $200,000 $200,000
Development College (BRCC) council of Managed Security Service Providers (MSSP) who will review and approve the development of the program, curriculum and on-the-job training
opportunities.
Shenandoah Valley Talent Solutions Frederick County Economic The Frederick County Economic Development Authority developed a Talent Solutions Strategy to address: 1) high school and college graduate retention 2)
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 12/11/2018 $64,800 $68,400
Strategy Development Development Authority development of a workforce to meet the needs of regional businesses, and 3) attraction of new workforce participation from outside of the Region and State.
The Staunton Innovation League assessed the feasibility of creating the Hub-Lab, a student-entrepreneur makerspace, to teach creative and collaborative ways
to use innovative equipment and technology such as 3D printers, laser cutters, robotics, and electronics. This study will 1) assess the need for this initiative, 2)
8 Staunton Tech-Lab Feasibility Study Staunton Innovation League Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 12/11/2018 $23,000 $23,000
determine the equipment and relevant curriculum, 3) assess the practicality of bricks-and-mortar and mobile lab spaces, and 4) identify funding sources to
support the build-out of the Hub-Lab.
Winchester Public Schools renovated the former Kohn Kerr Elementary School into an advanced facility for career and technical education (CTE) programs
8 Shihadeh Innovation Center Winchester Public Schools Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 3/12/2019 $540,000 $540,000 offered through a Professional Skills Academy, a Health Sciences Academy, and an Information Technology Academy to support an expanded Work-Based
Learning program to connect students to regional businesses in the targeted clusters.
The Shenandoah Valley Partnership utilized the expertise and resources of the National Center for Economic Gardening (National Center). Founded by Chris
Shenandoah Valley Gibbons in Littleton, Colorado, the National Center has a long history of providing economic gardening services to traded-sector companies on behalf of states,
8 Scale-Up the Valley Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY19 4/17/2020 $50,000 $50,000
Partnership regions and localities. In fact, Virginia has been a client and user of the National Center’s resources through a limited program offered by the Virginia Economic
Development Partnership.
James Madison University studied the impacts and opportunities of the industrial hemp industry for all of the Shenandoah Valley, including the assets and
8 Industrial Hemp Initiative Phase 1 James Madison University Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY19 4/17/2020 $53,630 $53,630 industry resources within the region in order to identify and verify business and cluster scale-up opportunities across Region 8 in agriculture, manufacturing, and
biomedical/biotechnical sectors
The Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission provided long-term scale up food manufacturing opportunities to new and existing businesses. The
Central Shenandoah
Agriculture Enterprise Center Feasibility Central Shenandoah Planning District Commission is proposing to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of developing a certified, commercial, shared-use
8 Planning District Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY19 4/17/2020 $85,000 $85,000
Study Agricultural Enterprise Center in order to identify what components will be the most successful and beneficial to the region. Initial uses being considered include
Commission
a kitchen space for testing and manufacturing food products, a resource space for training and special events, and space for packaging and distribution.
Staunton Creative Staunton Creative Community Fund delivered a three-prong approach to kick start a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that will deliver dedicated staff,
8 Startup Shenandoah Valley Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 6/23/2020 $628,953 $315,210
Community Fund partnerships with regional assets, workspaces, connections to mentorship, and access to capital to companies with a high potential for growth and success.
Augusta County helped the region’s small businesses recover revenue lost due the economic effects of COVID-19 and provide assurance to locals and visitors
8 Reopening SAW Augusta County Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 7/25/2020 $50,000 $25,000
that SAW is a safe and welcoming location.
Frederick County Economic Development Authority helped the region’s small businesses mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19 in the near term, as well as
Frederick County Economic prepare them for successful longer-term outcomes. This will be done by assembling Small Business Resiliency Teams (SBRT), a consortium of service providers
8 SBDC Small Business Resiliency Teams Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 7/31/2020 $81,813 $44,413
Development Authority to work directly with participating businesses to identify the most appropriate type of assistance to address their needs in implementing the recommendations
for SBRT clients.
Common Grain Alliance developed a scalable and repeatable process of supporting and building cooperative relationships between farmers, other local
producers, and distributors impacted by the Coronavirus by introducing a platform to facilitate supply chain logistics which enables a network of farmer-
8 LOCAL-I Common Grain Alliance Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 12/17/2020 $60,600 $30,300 cooperatives and distributorships, (ii) introduce farmer efficiency technology to streamline food sales, cold or dry storage access, and distribution, and (iii)
leverage the established web applications of Local Food Network (LFN) and Virginia Cooperative Extension’s (VCE) Market Maker and Buy Fresh Buy Local in
order to provide an online marketplace to increase sales from wholesale buyers and direct consumers.
Shenandoah Valley Site Development and The Shenandoah Valley Partnership elevated six sites totaling 1,112 acres in Region 8 to the next Tier on the VEDP Site Characterization scale by completing all
8 Shenandoah Valley Sites Enhancement Regional Per Capita FY20 3/16/2021 $821,000 $1,223,664
Partnership Infrastructure due diligence work associated with the sites.
The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport Commission has successfully finalized the design and engineering plans for the water and sewer systems that will
Shenandoah Valley Aviation Technology Shenandoah Valley Regional Site Development and support the upcoming phases of the Aviation Technology Park. This development is essential for accommodating future growth and ensuring that the
8 Regional Per Capita FY20 6/29/2021 $100,000 $50,000
Park Site Airport Commission Infrastructure infrastructure meets the needs of businesses and tenants within the park. The Commission is committed to creating a sustainable and efficient environment that
fosters innovation in the aviation sector while promoting economic development in the region..
The Advancement The Advancement Foundation created a multi-use facility featuring a business incubator and classrooms, ag and food tech labs, a small-scale manufacturing
8 Agricultural Innovation Center Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY21 12/15/2021 $550,000 $275,000
Foundation space, a processing and product development space, and a commercial kitchen to expand agricultural and tech industries across the Shenandoah Valley.
Laurel Ridge Community College enabled Business Resiliency Navigators to work with the small business community and assist in the specific areas of e-
Shenandoah Valley Small Business Laurel Ridge Community
8 Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 4/20/2022 $100,000 $50,500 commerce, finance, and operational systems. This program will help participating businesses stay on-track and fully focused on successful growth strategies and
Resiliency Teams (SBRT) Round 2 College
actions by providing existing resources and skills, as well as defined focus and technical expertise.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Laurel Ridge Community College will partner with the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) to offer their advanced manufacturing sector focused
career pathway training program. NC3 has partnered with major national advanced manufacturing employers such as 3M, Trane, Dremel, Snap-On Tools, and
Accelerating Advanced Manufacturing Laurel Ridge Community
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 6/14/2022 $530,000 $266,687 Lincoln Electric to create an industry driven portable and stackable certification system that spans three levels of manufacturing competency-based training
Workforce College
which can be utilized for new job applicants and emerging employees, incumbent workers who need to advance their skills, and apprenticeships for
manufacturing production positions and industrial maintenance technicians.
Shenandoah University addressed critical healthcare shortages exacerbated by the pandemic, Shenandoah University and Valley Health System will partner to
develop and deliver a model that will: Systematically Increase the number of nurse preceptors, increase the number of clinical hours achieved in the university
8 NextGen Nurses Shenandoah University Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/14/2022 $496,000 $343,455
simulation lab, increase the number of newly trained nurse graduates who are retained in the region, increase the number of new nursing enrollments, and
increase the number of new nurses hired by Valley Health
The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport Commission (SHD) advanced an industrial site within an existing airport park from Tier 2 to Tier 4 along the Virginia
Shenandoah Valley Regional Site Development and Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) scale. The Shenandoah Valley Regional Airport Commission, which comprises five surrounding localities, is working
8 SHD Technology Park Regional Per Capita FY23 12/13/2022 $993,300 $1,368,637
Airport Commission (SHD) Infrastructure towards making fundamental site improvements to the Aviation Technology Park. These improvements will construct a water line and gravity sewer line that
will strategically redirect existing utilities at the site to the perimeter, allowing SHD to build out the Park, and construct several new hangars.
The Shenandoah Community Capital Fund addressed a gap in the Region 8 entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing a regional incubator program serving early-
Shenandoah Community stage startups. The Capacitor Incubator Program aims to fill a substantial gap of the greater Shenandoah Valley entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing early-
8 Capacitor Incubator Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 6/13/2023 $395,067 $201,402
Capital Fund stage startups with an array of services including customized validation stage development, commercialization programming, physical working locations hubs,
and deep connections to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem facilitated through dedicated ecosystem builders and mentors.
The Shenandoah Valley Center for Advanced Learning increased the pool of qualified candidates in the Transportation and Logistics and Light Manufacturing
GO2 Work in Manufacturing and Shenanadoah Valley Center industry clusters. The project will add new career education and technical programs for Industrial Maintenance and Aviation Technology and will address critical
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 9/12/2023 $884,500 $442,250
Transportation in the Valley for Advanced Learning needs to upgrade equipment to modern standards and technologies for training high school and adult apprenticeship students in Precision Machining, Welding,
Auto, and Diesel Technology.
The Winchester Regional Airport Authority performed due diligence planning for a parcel of land at the Winchester Airport that will support the attraction of
Winchester Airport Northside Pacel Winchester Regional Airport Site Development and aircraft manufacturers serving the GO Virginia Region 8 targeted industry sectors, including Light Manufacturing, Transportation and Logistics, and Information
8 Regional Per Capita FY24 9/15/2023 $100,000 $50,000
Planning Study Authority Infrastructure Technology/Communications. This project is a planning study to analyze the site development requirements and perform selected surveys for a 27-acre tract of
land owned fee simple by the Winchester Regional Airport Authority and zoned for aeronautical use.
The Shenandoah Valley Partnership undertook a comprehensive feasibility analysis of the Blue Mountain site to evaluate its suitability for a proposed Regional
Industrial Facilities Authority (RIFA). This in-depth analysis encompassed a thorough economic assessment of the property's potential, examining factors such as
Shenandoah Valley Site Development and
8 Blue Mountain RIFA Feasibility Study Regional Per Capita FY24 1/19/2024 $78,630 $45,000 market demand, infrastructure capacity, and job creation opportunities. The study aimed to inform the establishment of the RIFA, which is intended to promote
Partnership Infrastructure
industrial development and enhance economic growth in the region. By combining these insights, the Partnership seeks to facilitate informed decision-making
and attract potential investors to the site.
The Winchester Regional Airport Authority will engage a specialized consultant to conduct a comprehensive study on the necessity of workforce development
Winchester Advanced Air Mobility Winchester Regional Airport initiatives in the rapidly evolving field of advanced air mobility. This initiative aims to assess the current skill gaps and training requirements in the sector,
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY24 4/23/2024 $71,000 $35,000
Workforce Study Authority ensuring that the local workforce is well-prepared to meet the demands of emerging technologies and opportunities within the industry. The findings of this
study will help inform strategies and programs designed to enhance workforce readiness and bolster economic growth in the region.
The Region 8 Council has chosen the Shenandoah Valley Workforce Development Board (SVWDB) to act as the Talent Pathways Planning Initiative industry
Shenandoah Valley
Shenandoah Valley Workforce cluster talent coordinating entity. As the regional workforce convening organization, SVWDB has a proven track record of delivering seamless services across
8 Workforce Development Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 6/4/2024 $250,000 $125,000
Development Board TPI various workforce programs and demonstrating community leadership on workforce issues in GOVA Region 8. In collaboration with Worked, SVWDB will create
Board
a comprehensive talent pathways plan, serving as a roadmap for future workforce development projects for the Region 8 Council's consideration.
The Shenandoah Valley Partnership desires to increases the inventory of regionally significant shovel-ready sites in GO Virginia Region 8 and addressed
developing a regional industrial park. Through previous GO Virginia grant funding, the applicant has worked with localities to elevate 199 acres of the Blue
Shenandoah Valley Site Development and
8 Blue Mountain Extended Due Diligence Regional Per Capita FY25 12/10/2024 $348,810 $174,405 Mountain site to a tier 4 on the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) scale. The applicant is seeking GO Virginia funding to elevate the remaining
Partnership Infrastructure
balance of the site (297 acres) to tier 4 on the VBRSP scale. Another key project component is a GO Virginia-funded Regional Industrial Facilities Authority (RIFA)
feasibility study. The study, which was completed in November 2024, indicates a recommended next step of forming a RIFA
Clark County is working to increase the inventory of shovel-ready sites in GO Virginia Region 8. The applicant is in the process of closing on the purchase of a 40-
acre site from the Commonwealth of Virginia that was previously home to a prison, which ceased operations in 2014. The proposed GO Virginia funded first
Clark County Camp 7 Site Development Site Development and
8 Clark County Regional Per Capita FY25 12/10/2024 $170,625 $85,313 phase will include work with a site consultant to complete a series of planning and assessment activities, including review and analysis of site access, existing
Planning Infrastructure
water and sewer infrastructure, industrial hygiene of all buildings, phase 1 environmental stream/wetland delineation, cultural resources, geotechnical surveys,
and structural analysis.
Page County will work to develop a business plan for the creation of a meat processing facility and cooperative that will serve GO Virginia Region 8, as well as
other meat processors statewide. This business plan will include the following components: 1. Research and development of the most effective structure and
governance for the cooperative. 2. Identification of key partner relationships for services that would not be handled by the facility, including harvesting and live
ShenValley Meat Processing
8 Page County Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 4/11/2025 $87,450 $43,725 receiving. 3. Development of and execution of legal agreements between the public and private partnering entities, including outlining roles and responsibilities,
Cooperative
commitments, and the governance structure. 4. Research and development of generic facility designs, including defining necessary components of the facility,
such as cooler areas, cold storage, and cattle receiving. 5. Development of a sustainability strategy, including identification of additional funding partners and
fundraising strategies for private investment.
Laurel Ridge Community College will launch a new education-toworkforce powerline program. This program will include two entirely new curricula: Powerline Worker and
Laurel Ridge Community
8 Expressway to Power Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY25 6/10/2025 $401,374 $200,687 Power Industry Fundamentals. In addition to these two curricula, Laurel Ridge will modify and customize existing Heavy Equipment Operation, CDL, and VDOT Flagger
College programs that will need to be modified to meet the unique specifications and requirements relevant to the powerline industry
Rockbridge County Public
8 Cybersecurity Dual Enrollment Program Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY26 9/9/2025 $38,227 $20,000
Schools
Rockbridge County Public Schools will establish a robust Cybersecurity Program designed to build a pipeline of workforce-ready graduates prepared for high-demand fields
in information technology and emerging technologies. In partnership with Mountain Gateway Community College (MGCC), the program will offer industry-recognized
certifications and hands-on technical training.
Rockbridge Advanced Manufacturing Rockbridge County Public Rockbridge County Public Schools will ensure high school students at the local technical center graduate with the certifications, skills, and experiences necessary
8 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY26 9/9/2025 $131,128 $71,000
Workforce Development Schools for immediate employment and continued education.
Culpeper County addressed the former George Washington Carver High School into the state-of-the-art GWC Piedmont Technical Education Center to train
GWC P-Tech Welding and Machining
9 Culpeper County Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 4/10/2018 $244,300 $431,625 machinists and welders. New Pathways Tech Inc. will operate the facility in partnership with Germanna Community College and the American Institute of
Center
Welding to train machinists and welders for the region’s advanced manufacturing industry.
Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) created a professional training program in wine and cider making, craft brewing and distilling to support the scale-
Piedmont Virginia up of the growing food and beverage manufacturing industry for the region and the commonwealth. PVCC will equip two training facilities for the training
9 Adult Beverage Jobs & Exports Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 6/12/2018 $249,472 $251,800
Community College (PVCC) programs, and establish the necessary agribusiness curriculum and career pathway from post-secondary instruction to employment. The new curriculum will be
shared with Germanna Community College (GCC) and deployed to students and businesses in GCC’s service region.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) built capacity for the Central Virginia Cybersecurity Partnership, a collaborative talent development solution for
Central Virginia Cybersecurity Piedmont Virginia the cybersecurity industry in Region Nine. PVCC will coordinate with GCC and Lord Fairfax Community College (LFCC) to establish a shared cybersecurity
9 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY18 6/12/2018 $100,000 $136,400
Partnership Community College (PVCC) program by aligning each community college with area of instructional expertise and accreditation from the National Centers for Academic Excellence in Cyber
Defense. The project will result in common cybersecurity curricula and a credentialing pathway between the partners for areas of specialization.
Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development advances a portfolio of eight sites targeted for light manufacturing to at least a Tier 3, according to the
Central Virginia Partnership Site Development and
9 Central Virginia Site Readiness Regional Per Capita FY18 6/12/2018 $58,675 $58,675 VBRSP classification system. CVPED engaged a consultant to conduct site characterization and initial due diligence activities for the site nominated by each of
for Economic Development Infrastructure
the participating localities.
CvilleBioHub assesses the current and projected regional capacity for the biotech industry and creates a strategic plan for driving innovation and growth for this
9 CvilleBioHub Planning Grant CvilleBioHub Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY18 8/14/2018 $83,540 $92,540 cluster. In addition, CvilleBioHub will also plan for organizational sustainability and growth by investigating new revenue models and forming additional
institutional partnerships.
University of Virginia School
The University of Virginia School of Business Batten Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation is addressing an existing gap in the local ecosystem by
of Business Batten Institute
9 Catalyst Accelerator Program Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 3/12/2019 $475,200 $476,000 providing the dedicated staff, workspace, programming, mentorship, and grant funding to support up to 20 high-potential companies. The Catalyst will offer a
for Entrepreneurship and
portfolio of programming and network events, as well as internships and project-based learning opportunities for UVA students.
Innovation
Louisa County completed the Phase II due diligence work for an approximately 700-acre new regional business park and advanced the development status to a
Regional Business Park - Phase 2 Site Site Development and
9 Louisa County Regional Per Capita FY19 6/24/2019 $600,850 $2,802,150 Tier 3 site on the Virginia Business Ready Site Program (VBSRP). This phase of due diligence includes topographic and boundary surveys, traffic impact
Readiness (Tier 3) Infrastructure
assessment, preliminary engineering reports (PER), geotechnical survey, cultural resource summary, and completion of the master plan.
Fauquier County contracted with a consultant to develop a pilot Youth Entrepreneurship Program in three schools and a best practices resource deliverable.
Youth Entrepreneurship Program The program is designed to introduce, expose and pique interest in the concept of entrepreneurship to high-school-aged youth and help youth explore careers
9 Fauquier County Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY19 6/24/2019 $83,500 $83,500
Resource as entrepreneurs. The goals of the program are to develop a pipeline of future business owners in high-growth, targeted sectors and to encourage these new
businesses to locate and focus their job growth in the rural part of Region 9.
CvilleBioHub led the growth and expansion of the biotechnology innovation cluster within the region. This initiative will serve the needs of existing companies
9 Biotech Innovation Cluster Growth CvilleBioHub Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY20 12/9/2019 $548,000 $604,740
through programming, the planning and design of a wet lab space, workforce training and candidate matching opportunities.
The Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development strengthens communication within the talent development system, proactively reach out to
Business-Driven Workforce Recovery Central Virginia Partnership
9 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY20 5/8/2020 $99,500 $50,000 businesses to determine their workforce needs and corresponding opportunities. This work will also support the development of regional sector-based
Initiative for Economic Development
strategies to implement talent solutions for each of the target industries as identified in the Region 9 Growth Plan Update, released in 2019.
Virginia Career Works: Piedmont focused on providing support to dislocated workers who are not covered under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunities
Act (WIOA) federal program. The initiative aimed to connect these individuals with meaningful employment opportunities by collaborating with regional
Virginia Career Works -
9 Project Reconnect Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 5/29/2020 $99,500 $50,000 employers. Through targeted outreach and tailored resources, Virginia Career Works: Piedmont sought to bridge the gap between local talent and the job
Piedmont
market, ensuring that those affected by economic shifts could access the necessary training and job placement services to successfully transition into new
careers.
Thomas Jefferson Planning The Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission project focuses on feasible web-based industry support solutions to improve e-commerce with a focus on
9 Crafting a New Normal Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/5/2020 $44,000 $22,000
District Commission improving dining reservation systems that allow for limited outside service and a platform adaptable to COVID-19 restrictions.
The Charlottesville Regional Chamber is committed to gaining a comprehensive understanding of the unique challenges faced by local businesses as they
navigate the process of reopening and rebuilding their operations in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. By actively engaging with business owners and
Charlottesville Regional
9 Project Rebound Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 6/5/2020 $80,000 $100,000 stakeholders, the Chamber identifies immediate needs and offers tailored resources and support to help foster a resilient and thriving regional economy. Their
Chamber
initiatives focus on providing guidance, facilitating access to funding, and promoting best practices to ensure that businesses can effectively adapt to the new
economic landscape and emerge stronger than ever.
The Charlottesville Business Innovation Council in Region Nine has developed a comprehensive cloud-based platform utilizing Start-Up Space technology. This
innovative solution features a native mobile application, a responsive website, and a utility/interaction platform offered as a service. The aim of this platform is
Regional Business and Professional Charlottesville Business
9 Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 11/20/2020 $76,500 $38,450 to empower businesses by providing them with the tools they need to accelerate their recovery and adaptation in the post-pandemic landscape. By facilitating
"Connector Platform" Innovation Council
improved communication, streamlined processes, and enhanced access to resources, the platform is designed to support businesses in navigating the
challenges they face and seizing new opportunities in the wake of the pandemic.
The Charlottesville Regional Chamber has significantly strengthened the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region by enhancing access to critical resources and
support services for entrepreneurs. This initiative aims to create a more vibrant network of shared knowledge, mentorship, and funding opportunities, which
Charlottesville Regional
9 Venture Central Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY20 12/7/2020 $300,000 $210,000 will ultimately lead to a higher five-year survival rate for startups. As a result, we anticipate not only increased job growth but also a broader economic vitality
Chamber
that benefits a diverse range of individuals and communities. By fostering an inclusive environment, the Chamber is committed to ensuring that all aspiring
entrepreneurs, regardless of their background, have the tools and support they need to succeed in a competitive marketplace.
Community Investment Collaborative helped existing businesses and new ventures address growth challenges and improve economic resiliency by addressing
Community Investment
9 SBDC Digital Business Resiliency Regional ERR Cluster Scale-Up FY20 3/16/2021 $131,220 $65,800 digital presence and e-commerce gaps, as well as expand the SBDC’s capacity to serve the region’s business development needs. The proposal emphasizes
Collaborative
services to rural localities and under-resourced communities.
The Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development elevated one site totaling 700 acres in Region 9 to Tier 4 on the VEDP Site Characterization scale,
Central Virginia Partnership Site Development and
9 Accelerating Regionally Significant Sites Regional Per Capita FY21 6/15/2021 $786,333 $413,167 and to enhance the marketability of a Tier 4 site in Culpeper County totaling 266 acres by completing water and sewer engineering studies for the sites. An
for Economic Development Infrastructure
additional three sites in Culpeper County will benefit from the project.
The Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development addressed newly identified service equity gaps in specific localities to ensure regional recovery from
The Future of Workforce Development Central Virginia Partnership
9 Regional ERR Workforce Development FY20 6/15/2021 $148,689 $74,250 the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The project will capitalize on the lessons learned while serving the workforce needs throughout GO Virginia
Outreach for Economic Development
Region 9 over the last ten months through Project Reconnect.
The Virginia Career Works: Piedmont is committed to advancing the Talent Development opportunities identified in the Region 9 Growth & Diversification Plan
Update (2021). This initiative will specifically target the Light Manufacturing and Food & Beverage Manufacturing sectors, aiming to enhance workforce skills
Virginia Career Works -
9 Talent Supply Connector Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 6/14/2022 $391,528 $200,851 and support local businesses. By focusing on these industries, we strive to create a robust talent pipeline that meets the current and future needs of employers
Piedmont
while fostering economic growth in the region. Our programs will include training workshops, career counseling, and partnerships with local educational
institutions to ensure that individuals are equipped with the necessary skills for success in these high-demand fields.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 2 - FY26Q1 Project Awards Full Report
Region Project Name Subgrantee Type Strategy Program Year Date of Award $ Award Committed Match Project Purpose
Laurel Ridge Community College has launched innovative technology academies aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for students. These academies
will offer comprehensive college-level courses focused on robotics and drone technology, catering specifically to high school students from Rappahannock and
Technology Academies for Fauquier and Laurel Ridge Community
9 Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY23 6/14/2022 $402,075 $201,038 Fauquier, as well as adult learners seeking to further their skills. By integrating hands-on learning experiences with theoretical knowledge, these programs aim
Rappahannock Counties College
to equip participants with the essential skills required in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, preparing them for careers in engineering, aerospace,
and other related fields.
The New Hill Development Corporation took proactive measures to support food and beverage businesses that are still in the process of recovering from the
economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Their efforts focused not only on stabilizing these existing enterprises but also on fostering growth in
New Hill Development
9 BEACON's Kitchen Regional ERR Startup Ecosystem FY20 6/14/2022 $189,000 $94,500 the food and beverage manufacturing sector throughout the region. By implementing targeted initiatives and providing resources, the corporation aims to
Corporation
enhance operational resilience, stimulate local employment, and drive innovation within the industry, ultimately contributing to a more robust and sustainable
economic environment.
Culpeper County supports existing Region 9 food and beverage manufacturers who wish to scale existing businesses or develop/manufacture products to be
sold outside of state lines. To revitalize the former George Washington Carver Regional High School (now called the Carver Center) into a thriving and
9 Carver Food Business Incubator Culpeper County Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY22 9/13/2022 $199,727 $103,000 sustainable agricultural education, production, research, and training hub. Culpeper County will complete a community kitchen currently under construction by
providing crucial specialized equipment, which addresses the needs of businesses as they add value to local produce and prepare products for the interstate
market.
Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development helped college graduates to launch their careers within the Central Virginia region and provide a talent
Central Virginia Partnership pipeline for higher paying jobs in technology fields in Region 9 targeted sectors. Tech Talent Retention will raise awareness of local businesses through student
9 Tech Talent Retention Regional Per Capita Workforce Development FY22 9/13/2022 $307,800 $155,500
for Economic Development “thought leaders” who will innovate and inspire classmates. Work will be completed by a team of undergraduate work‐study “student ambassadors” led by an
experienced talent director.
CvilleBioHub aims to successfully launch CvilleBioLab, a dedicated wet lab incubator and accelerator designed to support emerging biotechnology firms in the
region. To achieve this goal, the non-profit organization will focus on completing essential operational tasks, pre-construction requirements, and
9 CvilleBioLab CvilleBioHub Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY22 2/17/2023 $100,000 $50,000
comprehensive marketing efforts. This initiative will not only provide state-of-the-art laboratory facilities but also foster innovation and collaboration among
local startups, ultimately contributing to the growth of the biotechnology sector in our community.
The Community Investment Collaborative serves existing businesses and new entrepreneurs by engaging and building entrepreneurial networks in rural counties
across GO Virginia Region 9. This support will create jobs, serve and help expand existing businesses, create new businesses, and engage entrepreneurs. The
Community Investment project will advance recommendations made in the Region 9 Rural Entrepreneurship Report (2020), which was researched and vetted by subject matter
9 Rural Entrepreneur Ecosystem Building Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 3/14/2023 $200,000 $100,820
Collaborative experts, including economic development representatives, entrepreneurs, and community partners, including community colleges and chambers. Project
activities include hosting entrepreneur workshops, facilitating small business circles, providing target sector support services, training with subject matter
experts, and providing one-on-one technical advising for new businesses.
The Community Investment Collaborative developed a strategy for defining and implementing recommendations to grow the Region Nine entrepreneurial
ecosystem further. Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) will partner with Venture Central to utilize funding set aside by GO Virginia for Region Nine’s
Community Investment
9 Region 9 REI Regional Per Capita Startup Ecosystem FY23 6/13/2023 $300,000 $165,375 Regional Entrepreneurship Initiative (REI). This project will survey regional stakeholders, inventory funding needs and sources, and compile best practices from
Collaborative
other regions to develop county/city level assessments and prepare a guide and recommendations for local ecosystem collaboration. This will help build a 3–5-
year plan for actionable strategies and potential future GO Virginia Grant Applications.
Nelson County addresses a current knowledge gap in the food and beverage manufacturing industry in the region by studying barriers to expanding exports out
of the state as well as potential solutions to these barriers. The study would use meetings with stakeholders, survey work, and business led coalitions to validate
9 Wine Industry Planning Grant Nelson County Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY23 12/12/2023 $100,000 $104,159
findings around various parts of the production process. Ultimately, the report would include recommendations for future funding opportunities to address
challenges and areas for growth.
The Cvillebiohub expansion of the Biotechnology industry in GO Virginia Region Nine. The Commonwealth Bio Accelerator will fulfill multiple tasks which have
previously been identified as needed to overcome current obstacles for the industry. Currently, the region does not possess wet-lab facilities to support
emerging life-science firms. This has been a contributing factor to growing firms leaving the region, and prevents startups from accessing federal funding
9 Region 9 - Project VITAL CvilleBioHub Statewide Competitive Cluster Scale-Up FY24 6/4/2024 $4,302,887 $2,702,158
sources. This project would address this by providing turnkey wet lab space. In addition, this project would provide robust support services through the
accelerator program for emerging firms. In tandem, this would allow for the Commonwealth to more fully realize benefits from its investment in the Paul and
Diane Manning Institute of Biotechnology at the University of Virginia (who are a key partner in this project).
CvilleBioHub is dedicated to creating well-defined talent pathways for the biotechnology and biomedicine sectors within GO Virginia Region Nine. By focusing on
the specific skills and expertise needed in these industries, CvilleBioHub seeks to connect local educational institutions, businesses, and workforce development
9 BioBridge Talent Pathways Planning CvilleBioHub Talent Pathway Initiative Workforce Development FY23 12/10/2024 $244,400 $122,200 organizations. This initiative will not only help cultivate a skilled workforce but also enhance regional economic growth and innovation in the life sciences.
Through collaborative efforts, CvilleBioHub aims to ensure that both current and future talent is equipped to meet the evolving demands of the biotechnology
and biomedicine fields.
Venture Central is dedicated to fostering growth and diversification within the regional economy by developing a comprehensive action plan to establish a food
and beverage accelerator program specifically tailored for GO Virginia Region Nine. This initiative aims to support local entrepreneurs and businesses in the
Food and Beverage Business
9 Venture Central Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 1/8/2025 $100,000 $53,750 food and beverage sector by providing resources such as mentorship, access to funding, and networking opportunities. By creating a robust ecosystem for
Accelerator
innovation and collaboration, we seek to enhance the region's culinary landscape, stimulate job creation, and attract investment, ultimately contributing to the
overall economic vitality of the area.
Rivanna Futures in Region Nine is dedicated to enhancing the economic landscape by increasing the number of regionally significant, shovel-ready sites within
Site Development and GO Virginia Region 9. This initiative aims to facilitate the development of a robust regional industrial park, fostering growth and attracting businesses to the
9 Rivanna Futures Albemarle County Regional Per Capita FY25 3/11/2025 $613,570 $324,000
Infrastructure area. By strategically identifying and preparing these sites, Rivanna Futures aims to create a competitive advantage for local industries, promote job creation,
and stimulate long-term economic development in the region.
The Wine Industry Implementation initiative will be an industry-led coalition focused on enhancing the export potential of the wine industry in region nine. This
9 Wine Industry Implementation Nelson County Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 3/11/2025 $224,125 $209,784 coalition will provide a range of specialized services, including market research, export training, and networking opportunities, to help local wineries scale up
their operations and reach international markets. By fostering collaboration among producers, suppliers, and industry experts, the initiative aims to strengthen
the regional wine sector and boost its global competitiveness, ultimately leading to increased economic growth and job creation in the region.
Central Virginia Partnership
9 Innovation Corridor Roadmap Regional Per Capita Cluster Scale-Up FY25 4/16/2025 $100,000 $75,000 The Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development will identify subsectors with competitive advantages and growth opportunities within biotechnology and
for Economic Development
information technology in the region.
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
Appendix 3 - FY26Q1 GOVA Unobligated Balances by Region
Unobligated Balances
Funding Source Total Balance
Regoin 1 Per Capita $ 1,756,669.25
Region 2 Per Capita $ 1,874,192.97
Region 3 Per Capita $ 1,260,494.32
Region 4 Per Capita $ 2,236,896.45
Region 5 Per Capita $ 6,108,568.00
Region 6 Per Capita $ 1,300,991.25
Region 7 Per Capita $ 9,940,117.15
Region 8 Per Capita $ 1,063,400.50
Region 9 Per Capita $ 1,016,607.56
Helen Business
Recovery Initiative $ 1,402,500.00
Competitive Fund $ 20,762,709.82
$ 48,723,147.27
Funded Projects as of 9/30/2025
File and source
- File
- 2026-RD90.pdf
- Size
- 950,990 bytes
- SHA-256
- 4582946baca05989a7e464fab53da0ef7c864fb7f60775cc886b3fd2127a7744
- Our copy
- 2026-RD90.pdf
- Original
- No public link identified.