Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced $6.2 million in grant funding on Dec. 30 through the Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) initiative, aimed at strengthening the state’s long-term economic growth.
According to the governor’s office, the funding will support 10 projects designed to boost Virginia’s competitiveness by promoting innovation, expanding workforce development, and accelerating growth in key industries. Officials say the investment is also expected to generate an additional $4 million in non-state funding across multiple sectors.
“GO Virginia continues to serve as a powerful driver of innovation and opportunity across the Commonwealth,” Youngkin said in a statement. “Virginia is stronger than ever, but we must keep moving forward. This $6.2 million investment will enhance our workforce, advance strategic industries, and ensure Virginia remains competitive for years to come.”
The selected projects include initiatives focused on aviation maintenance training, industrial trades expansion, and talent development pathways in emerging technology fields. Other efforts support the creation of regional innovation ecosystems and long-term planning strategies to help regions prepare for transformational industry opportunities.
Several projects feature partnerships with school divisions, community colleges, and research universities, with the goal of aligning education and training programs more closely with workforce demands while opening doors to higher-paying career paths.
“Across the Commonwealth, we are seeing strong alignment around talent pipelines, commercialization efforts, and the development of competitive sites,” said Emily O’Quinn, chair of the GO Virginia State Board. “This level of regional collaboration is essential for creating jobs and expanding economic opportunity.”
One of the largest awards includes a $1.23 million implementation grant to expand Virginia Commonwealth University’s Small Business Opportunity Center into additional regions through partnerships with universities and entrepreneurial support organizations, including those in Hampton Roads.
In addition, smaller planning and feasibility grants were distributed to support long-term economic development strategies, workforce planning, and site development across regions such as Northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, the Northern Neck, and the Blue Ridge corridor.
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