Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development

International Profile

Virginia Beach is not only an Oceanfront resort but an important international destination that has attracted the attention of many international businesses for its affordability, diversity, and proximity to ports.

It is why so many international companies decided to locate and grow here – from consumer product giants and long-term-oriented companies like STIHL and KETTLER, to industrial powerhouses like Busch, Hermes, and IMS:Gear. They understand we are on their side, providing a low-tax, business-friendly environment that encourages business expansion, not only in the United States but also worldwide.

In recent years, the Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development has established offices in Germany, Spain, and United Kingdom to offer assistance to companies abroad that are interested in establishing or expanding in Virginia Beach.

Why Virginia Beach?

Strategically located at the midpoint of the United State's East Coast and just three hours from Washington, D.C., Virginia Beach truly is an international gateway to America. Great companies make their own success, but Virginia Beach offers powerful resources that offer even greater advantages in the U.S. and global markets:

Low cost of doing business
Highly-skilled and productive workforce
One of America's most advanced deep-water port and multimodal transportation systems
World-class telecommunications system makes global communication easy and reliable
Innovative “mechatronics” training/workforce program that supports skills development for the manufacturing sector
Highly competitive business environment encompassing a huge consumer base
Welcoming beach community with excellent quality of life

International Incubator

The Virginia Beach International Incubator is geared towards foreign companies that need space to grow their sales volume before establishing their own office or manufacturing facility in the City. Companies that choose to use the space will also have access to the resources offered at The HIVE, which includes on-site support provided by partner agencies.

Lower Taxes, Higher Profits

International companies will find a relatively uncomplicated and equitable tax structure that allows them to focus on growing their business. Learn more about tax rates and the cost of doing business.

Virginia Beach Metropolitan Area: A Closer Look

The region's strategic location in the heart of the mid-Atlantic, coupled with logistical assets including international airports and the fast-growing Port of Virginia, makes it an ideal gateway to the U.S. market for international companies.

85 million of all United States consumers are within one-day drive of Virginia Beach
More than 200 million of U.S. consumers live within two-day drive of Virginia Beach
(Source: 2020 Virginia Beach Community Profile)

Demographics

Largest city in Virginia with a total metropolitan population of 1.8 million
Within 750 miles/1,200 kilometers of more than two-thirds of the U.S. manufacturing base
Home to nearly 200 foreign-based companies representing more than 27 countries and 12 consulate offices

Workforce

Skilled workforce of more than 810,000 people—supported by innovative, advanced employee-training programs

International Community

International-level education systems
Direct access to experienced attorneys, local bankers, and financial experts
Direct access to other international companies

35% of the region's European companies are located in Virginia Beach (Source: Virginia Beach Economic Development, 2020)

Cost of Doing Business

Stable state and local governments that are receptive to your business needs
No taxes on machinery and tool equipment for manufacturers
Port users incentives

Transportation

The Port of Virginia, the third-largest container port on the East Coast
Two international airports offering direct connections to 17 U.S. hubs
Railroads/Transportation
Foreign Trade Zone

Meet Our Team Across the Atlantic

The Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development travels around the world to meet with business leaders at their facilities or at industry-specific tradeshows and conferences. Our team is also well represented abroad with economic development consultants located throughout Europe.

The Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development established offices in Munich (Germany), Madrid (Spain), and Ipswich (United Kingdom) to offer assistance to the increasing number of European companies interested in establishing or expanding in Virginia Beach.

Business Spotlight

IMS: Gear

IMS Gear is a leader in gear and transmission technology. The company manufactures power seat gears for more than 70% of the automotive market in the United States.

Busch Vacuum Solutions

From their modern 200,000 square foot facility in Virginia Beach, Busch manufactures and sells industrial vacuum pumps and systems for industries that include food packaging and processing, electrical power generation, medical, chemical, semiconductor, metallurgy, plastic processing and more.