Politics & Government

Virginia to Top Forbes' Best States for Business Again, says Virginia Chamber CEO

Virginia Chamber of Commerce President Barry DuVal praised Virginia's successes at attracting and growing businesses Wednesday, but there may be some "storm clouds on the horizon."

Virginia Chamber President/CEO Barry DuVal announced Wednesday Virginia will spend its second year atop Forbes Magazine's list of Best States for Business due to its strong economy powered by local and federal government, military presence, and farming and manufacturing expertise. 

The announcement came during DuVaul's speech to the Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce at the Stauton Holiday Inn.

DuVal warned that there are still "storm clouds on the horizon," noting the state has to compete for new business from across the globe. Virginia is the top recipient of federal defense funds, which have been cut due to federal sequestration. If Virginia continues to grow at a rate of 2 percent annually over the next decade, the state will be short 2 million workers, the News Virginian reports.

Spurring job growth and attracting businesses and a stronger workforce requires investing in early childhood, K-12 and post-secondary education, according to DuVal. The Virginia Chamber of Commerce developed Blueprint Virginia, a long-range statewide economic development strategy introduced two years ago, to do just that.


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