COMPANIES EXPANDING TO THE U.S.
Your gateway to the U.S. starts in Virginia
Your gateway to the U.S. starts in Virginia
VEDP is your partner in helping international companies expand to Virginia, a strategic, business-friendly entry point into the U.S. market that serves as a launchpad for growth throughout the country. Virginia combines a globally connected location with the depth to support both headquarters functions and large-scale research and development, manufacturing, and distribution operations. For international executives and site selectors, the Commonwealth stands out as an established destination where globally minded companies can invest, grow, and compete with confidence.
A workforce to bolster your expansion
A workforce to bolster your expansion
A key advantage for companies locating in Virginia is our workforce capability and availability. Virginia’s talent pool is both highly educated and practically skilled, with a workforce that can support white-collar leadership roles as well as blue-collar and technical operations. The Commonwealth ranks first among Southeastern states for the percentage of adults with at least a bachelor’s degree. For companies building advanced manufacturing, engineering, logistics, or regulated-industry teams, Virginia helps reduce ramp-up risk by aligning talent with real operating needs.
Access to best-in-class logistics infrastructure
Virginia also delivers strong global access and logistics performance. With major air connectivity through Washington Dulles International Airport, The Port of Virginia’s capabilities, and efficient reach to U.S. population centers — 47% of the U.S. population is within a one-day drive — companies can serve customers across the country while staying connected to international markets. Proximity to Washington, D.C. adds a further advantage for firms that sell to federal institutions or operate in highly regulated environments.
A stable, common-sense business environment
From a financial standpoint, Virginia offers a competitive cost structure for companies seeking quality talent and infrastructure without the premium associated with some peer locations. For international investors comparing leading U.S. states, Virginia competes strongly on labor, taxes, and overall cost of doing business, helping organizations balance performance, predictability, and long-term operating costs.
Your connection to the partners that drive project success
Virginia helps international companies navigate how U.S. industry ecosystems work, connecting firms to partners, suppliers, research capacity, and training pipelines. Virginia is known for practical collaboration between industry and education, including community college programs designed around employer needs.
A connected, global network
An established ecosystem where international companies thrive
increase in FDI projects in Virginia over the last 5 years
Source: Conway, 2025
invested by foreign firms in the last 10 years
Source: VEDP Announcements Database 2017-2026
languages spoken in Virginia
Source: Migration Policy Institute, 2023
foreign firms choosing to grow or expand in Virginia in the last 10 years
Source: VEDP Announcements Database 2017-2026
Why companies
choose Virginia
More than advisors – partners for international growth
More than advisors – partners for international growth
Antje advises international companies on how best to expand operations into the U.S. in general and Virginia in particular, providing expert guidance on key topics, from site selection to tax incentives. She oversees VEDP’s offices in Europe, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan.
Caitlin Champion works with European companies exploring expansion into the United States, helping them evaluate Virginia as a destination for growth. Based in Munich, she supports companies as they assess new market opportunities and consider investment in the Commonwealth.
Marie supports international companies exploring expansion and business development in Virginia, drawing on deep cross-cultural experience, multilingual fluency and global market insight.
The regions powering Virginia’s growth
You’re in good company in Virginia
You’re in good company in Virginia
Virginia’s dynamic international business ecosystem connects global companies, exporters, and investors across industries—from advanced manufacturing and life sciences to technology and logistics. With more than 1,000 foreign-owned companies operating in the Commonwealth and billions in annual exports, Virginia provides a strategic gateway for businesses expanding into the U.S. and global markets.
Hitachi Energy, Halifax County
Hitachi Energy, Halifax County
A proven history of international success
A proven history of international success
Virginia’s track record provides added confidence: internationally owned companies across life sciences, food and beverage, aerospace and defense, manufacturing, logistics, and energy have already scaled successful operations here, including brands such as Airbus, AstraZeneca, Danone, Hitachi Energy, Kongsberg, the LEGO Group, and STIHL. The Commonwealth is a proven location of choice for global companies, pairing strong access to customers with a skilled workforce and supportive, solutions-oriented economic development partners, backed by measurable outcomes in jobs created and capital investment.
Our Success Stories
Why companies
choose Virginia
Massimo Zanetti, Suffolk
Our proximity to major transit lanes and the Port of Virginia, one of the largest coffee ports in the country, further enhances our position and allows for continued growth, while adding to the economic vitality of the area. Hampton Roads has a business-friendly environment, high quality of life, and a diverse talent pool.
STIHL Incorporated U.S., Virginia Beach
The City of Virginia Beach has been an ideal business partner. For over 40 years, the City has continued to create a positive economic environment for manufacturers like STIHL, supporting our continued growth and expansion.
