Old Dominion News

RICHMOND, VA –  Governor Glenn Youngkin announced today more than $1.9 million in Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) grant awards for eight projects designed to empower workforce development, bolster startup ecosystems and promote economic growth in the Commonwealth. These initiatives will play a pivotal role in nurturing skilled talent, fostering entrepreneurial ventures and bridging the gap between job seekers and employment opportunities.

“As we grow Virginia’s economy, Virginia’s workforce must grow with it, and GO Virginia continues to foster innovative solutions to these distinct regional challenges,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “By investing in our workforce and removing barriers to success, we are propelling the growth of targeted industries and clearing pathways for sustainable employment.”

The GO Virginia program leads the charge in advancing regional economic growth and diversification by enabling cooperative projects that tap into workforce enhancement, cluster expansion, innovative business initiatives and site development tactics.

“These GO Virginia projects are a testament to our unwavering dedication to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities across Virginia’s diverse regions,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “These awarded projects will support talent pipelines, foster workforce development and fortify Virginia’s targeted industry clusters.”

In addition to the awarded GO Virginia funding, the eight awarded projects will leverage an additional $1.3 million in local and non-state funding.

“Congratulations to the regional councils and today’s awardees. GO Virginia is committed to making an impact in the growth of the economy in every region of the Commonwealth and these projects are strong steps to grow the industry sectors prioritized at the regional level, " said Nancy Howell Agee, chair of the Go Virginia State Board.

Since the program’s inception in 2017, GO Virginia has funded 285 projects and awarded approximately $116 million to support regional economic development efforts. To learn more about the GO Virginia program, visit dhcd.virginia.gov/gova.

A FULL LIST OF THE AWARDED PROJECTS CAN BE FOUND HERE.

Original source can be found here.