As it was in 1776, Virginia remains central to the American story in 2026. To understand America’s economic, political, and historical developments on its 250th anniversary, one must begin in Virginia.

VEDP is now helping Riggs Ward take that expertise overseas by providing them with market research and helping the company make connections abroad. This spring, the firm will use a grant to attend a trade show in London through VEDP’s Trade Show Program, which provides eligible companies with up to $10,000 in reimbursements to exhibit at product-, service-, or industry-related events that occur outside of the United States or have a demonstrated international aspect. 

It’s not just history, but history-making innovation that’s the new draw for the Northern Virginia city established in 1749. From welcoming startups to students, Alexandria has been transforming into an ideation destination, complete with recognition by Business Facilities as one of the country’s top innovation hubs to watch.

For more than 300 years, Virginia’s universities have helped produce generations of political leaders, scientists, entrepreneurs, engineers, and business executives who shaped the economy in the Commonwealth and beyond.

Learn more about how Virginians helped push the country forward in its formative years, a precursor to the innovation still occurring in the Commonwealth every day.

Virginia is ranked No. 3 in CNBC's annual America’s Top States for Business ranking. Virginia has finished in the top five of every edition of CNBC’s ranking since 2018 and has finished No. 1 six times, more than any state.

The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program earns top ranking from Business Facilities