Economic Development in Virginia’s Heartland
A Connected Region for Business Growth and Opportunity
Virginia’s Heartland is a prime location for Virginia economic development, offering opportunities for businesses to expand, relocate, or launch in a region built on collaboration and connectivity. Centrally located and supported by strong regional economic partnerships, the Heartland provides access to workforce talent, transportation networks, and key markets.
Across Southern and Central Virginia, the region supports strategic, sustainable growth, bringing together workforce, infrastructure, and community to create an environment where businesses and people succeed together.
Talent Development
Virginia’s Heartland supports workforce development in Virginia through a strong network of education and training partners. Institutions like Longwood University, Hampden-Sydney College, and Southside Virginia Community College provide academic programs, workforce training, and career pathways aligned with regional industry needs. Accredited K–12 systems build a pipeline of future talent.
By investing in people, the Heartland builds a workforce ready to grow with the region.
Transportation
Virginia’s Heartland offers strategic access to major markets through a well-developed network of highways, rail, air, and port connections. Key corridors — including U.S. Highways 15, 60, 360, and 460 — connect the region. Additionally, rail service from Buckingham Branch Railroad and Norfolk Southern supports freight movement and industrial growth. Local and regional airports provide access to major hubs including Richmond, Charlottesville, and Lynchburg, along with proximity to the Ports of Richmond and Norfolk.
Here, connection and accessibility support both quality of life and economic opportunity.
Top Employers
Virginia’s Heartland is supported by a diverse mix of employers across Virginia industries like healthcare, education, manufacturing, and public service. Organizations such as Centra Health, Longwood University, and Southside Virginia Community College — along with regional manufacturers, financial institutions, and local governments — play a key role in supporting jobs and economic stability.
A diverse employer base strengthens the regional economy and creates opportunity across Virginia’s Heartland.
Target Industries
Virginia’s Heartland supports key Virginia industries including advanced manufacturing, agriculture and agribusiness, and logistics. These sectors build on the region’s strengths in workforce development, available land, and transportation access, creating opportunities for business expansion and long-term investment.
Together, these industries represent a balanced approach to progress — where tradition and innovation move forward side by side.
The Cost of Doing Business
The Heartland offers a competitive cost of doing business in Virginia, supported by affordable land, lower operating costs, and access to a skilled workforce. Companies seeking cost-effective business locations benefit from an environment that supports efficiency, growth, and long-term investment.