Who We Are
Virginia’s Gateway Region exists to enhance the economic development opportunities for the cities of Colonial Heights, Hopewell and Petersburg, and the counties of Chesterfield, Dinwiddie, Prince George, Surry and Sussex. Virginia’s Gateway Region is a private, nonprofit organization that is publicly and privately funded to facilitate new business opportunities, work with existing businesses, advance resources that will enhance the economic viability of the region and foster regional cooperation among the public and private entities that are involved in economic development activities.
History
The predecessor organization to Virginia’s Gateway Region was formed in 1960, making Virginia’s Gateway Region one of the oldest economic development organizations. Virginia’s Gateway Region was created in its present form in 1985 under the name of Appomattox Basin Industrial Development Corporation, better known as ABIDCO. The name Virginia’s Gateway Region was adopted in February 2002.
Growth
Since 1990, more than 180 project announcements have been made for the five county, three city region – welcoming over 90 new corporate citizens – creating over $2.4 billion in capital investment and 15,000 jobs. The excellent transportation system, abundant water supplies and a skilled labor force also make the Gateway Region suitable for pharmaceutical firms, machinery manufacturers, food processors, apparel and textile firms, manufacturers of fabricated metals and plastics and polymer operations.
Results
We provide businesses with everything needed to make the most informed location decision. We deliver detailed information on available sites and buildings, financial and policy information, as well as environmental and workforce studies and more. Our region provides existing businesses and newly located companies with access to the people, places and resources that will ensure you can get your new or existing location built, staffed and running toward a profit.