When The Turman Group began focusing on exporting nearly 20 years ago, they saw the potential for new markets, increased sales, and improved resiliency with domestic economic issues, but also saw the potential downsides that come with opening up to new clients. When they hired someone to oversee exports in 2006, one of their first major projects was a VEDP trade mission to China.

RICHMOND - Governor Terry McAuliffe announced today that Emser Tile, the leading designer, marketer and producer of the world’s finest tile and natural stone, will invest $16.25 million to establish an East Coast distribution operation in CenterPoint Intermodal Center in the City of Suffolk. Virginia successfully competed against South Carolina for the project, which will create 98 new jobs. 

Armed Forces Brewing Company, a military tribute beer company, will establish its headquarters and first brewing facility in the City of Norfolk.

This issue of Virginia Economic Review takes a deep dive into the controlled environment agriculture industry’s past, present, and future, while highlighting traditional agricultural operations in Virginia. Article highlights include:

RICHMOND - The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced a partnership with 24 private sector providers that will offer services to companies in the two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. Launched in January 2002, the program assists exporters in the Commonwealth that have firmly established domestic operations and are committed to international exporting as an expansion strategy. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growing their export sales.

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced the establishment of the Virginia Offshore Wind Supplier Development Grant, a new program designed to incentivize smaller existing Virginia manufacturers.

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that 11 companies across the Commonwealth have graduated from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s (VEDP) Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program.

Fortreum, LLC, a Virginia-founded cloud computing and cybersecurity advisory company, will invest $125,000 to establish its headquarters in Loudoun County.

Virginia offers sales and use tax exemptions for use by a farmer for purchase of tangible personal property for use in producing agricultural products for market, medicine and drugs sold to a veterinarian, or property used to produce agricultural products for market in an indoor, closed, controlled environment commercial agricultural facility.