Everyone wins when local businesses are successful in the Greater Richmond region. Like you, we know existing businesses account for nearly 80 percent of new economic activity in the area. The Business First program is an instrumental part of our efforts to grow the regional economy and demonstrates our longstanding commitment to existing business outreach and support.

Using an innovative and award-winning approach that starts with a face-to-face interview, our team of committed outreach professionals and volunteers from the business community aims to learn about your needs and the challenges facing your business. The meeting is a comprehensive conversation about the past, present and future plans for your firm.

Based on your business's unique needs, your local economic development office will work to quickly connect you to the right resources and information. Our network of resource partners provides a broad range of free or low-cost services such as expansion assistance, financing, workforce training and recruitment, international trade support, process improvement and business planning, and technical support. Don't need anything today? You'll have a relationship with an advocate if a need arises in the future.

Finally, you're encouraged to share your opinions on the Richmond region's business climate. Your responses are confidential and will be combined with those of hundreds of other companies interviewed annually. When combined and analyzed, this information helps community leaders better understand the business environment and provides insight into key issues affecting area business. This becomes the basis for action as we continually work to improve the business climate in the Richmond region.