Announcements

Nominations now open for VGR's Ambassador of the Year award! Based on your nominations, our Special Events Committee will choose an individual who has demonstrated an outstanding contribution and dedication to economic development within the region. The award will be presented at the 53rd Annual Meeting in the spring of 2014. For additional information or to nominate, please contact

Upcoming Events

Annual Partners Holiday Gathering & Business Council Meeting

When: Thursday, Dec. 12

5:30 p.m.-7 p.m.

Where: Wabi-Sabi

29 Bollingbrook Street

Petersburg, VA 23803

Partner Spotlight

We are happy to announce our newest partner, Dominion Commercial! Dominion Commercial is a Chester based full service commercial real estate company that handles the sale, leasing and property management of office, retail and Industrial properties, as well as multifamily and investment sales. In addition, they also handle grounds maintenance and construction services.

VSU to break ground on Multipurpose Center

Staff | The Progress Index | Full Story

ETTRICK - Virginia State University is set to break ground on its new Multipurpose Center this Friday at 2 p.m., at the intersection of Third Avenue and Watson Street. The ground-breaking isn't open to the public due to space constraints.

The 165,941 square-foot building is set to seat 6,100 people for events - much more than the existing Daniel Gymnasium. For sporting events, there is a 5,100 seating capacity for NCAA basketball and volleyball. The center will replace Daniel Gym as home to the university's basketball and volleyball teams, and as a venue for other athletic events.

The center will not only contain a single large gathering space, it will provide meeting and classroom space, a student wellness center and locker rooms. A banquet kitchen that can accommodate events up to 900 will be on site. Special guests will also be able to enjoy six VIP suites.

Governor McDonnell Announces More than $2 Million in Industrial Revitalization Fund Grants

Taylor Thornley Keeney | Virginia.gov | Full Story

RICHMOND - Governor Bob McDonnell today announced more than $2 million in Industrial Revitalization Fund (IRF) grants for five projects in Virginia. The IRF program provides gap financing for construction projects aligned with local and regional economic development strategies, primarily in distressed communities.

"This program focuses on bringing derelict structures back to life," said Governor McDonnell. "By revitalizing vacant structures, we are encouraging economic growth in communities that want new investments and creating new vitality for vacant buildings."