We’re not sure we belong here, but we’re giving it a shot. We’d like to think VEDP is among cutting-edge state economic development organizations. After all, Virginia has been ranked the “Best State for Business” for three years in a row by Forbes.com. That didn’t just happen.

In times of economic crisis, Virginia needs to be creative with how it delivers its message. We’re often credited for our creativity when it comes to helping companies find solutions to meet their needs. Now it’s time to help ourselves.

Like others, our marketing budget has been slashed and our economic development activity has slowed. But in comparison to other states across the nation, Virginia is holding its own. In fact, the number of announcements, the sector and geographic diversity, and the encouraging ratio of new to expanding economic development projects suggest that Virginia remains a sought-after destination for new business investment.

We intend to keep it that way. If one (free) method of marketing Virginia means venturing out into the unknown world of cyberspace—we’re willing to give it a shot. It remains to be seen if it will help; it certainly can’t hurt.