STAFFORD, VA [April 29, 2024] – On April 24, 2024, the Stafford County Economic Development Authority (EDA) held its annual Business Appreciation Reception at the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts. The event brought together over 200 local business professionals and leaders to celebrate Stafford’s business community.
During the reception, three Stafford businesses were recognized for their exceptional contributions:
The Innovation Award acknowledged uBreakiFix by Asurion for its forward-thinking initiatives, including a youth program focused on STEM education and repair skills, as well as a Senior Tech Troubleshooting program.
The Donald H. Newlin Community Stewardship Award, named in honor of long-serving EDA member Donald H. Newlin, was presented to FOCUS Group Solutions for its pioneering efforts in addressing mental health needs and creating employment opportunities in the community.
Potomac Point Vineyard & Winery was honored as Business of the Year for its outstanding growth, commitment to community welfare through charitable initiatives, and dedication to exceptional customer service.
“As Chairman of the Stafford County EDA, and business owner in Stafford, I am proud to witness the strength and resilience of our local business community. This event reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting economic growth and innovation in Stafford County,” remarked Howard Owen, EDA Chairman
The evening featured a special introduction and performance by Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, a review of EDA business resources, networking opportunities, and a celebration of Stafford’s entrepreneurial spirit.
“I am thrilled to see the remarkable achievements of our local businesses recognized at the 30th Annual Business Appreciation Reception. This event underscores our dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving business environment in Stafford County,” remarked Liz Barber, Economic Development Director of Stafford County
The event was made possible by generous sponsors including McLane Mid-Atlantic as the title sponsor, NorthPoint Development as the refreshments sponsor, Germanna Community College as the entertainment sponsor, Dominion Energy, GCubed, Inc., and Stafford Printing as the welcome sponsors.
“We take great pride in sponsoring the 30th Anniversary of the Stafford EDA’s Business Appreciation Reception,” remarked Jackie Palmer, General Manager of McLane Mid-Atlantic. “Having celebrated our 50th year of business in Stafford just last September, we are honored to be a longstanding member of the community. Our commitment to events like the Business Appreciation Reception, alongside our fellow supporting businesses, highlights the unity and camaraderie that businesses bring to shaping Stafford County.”
The 30th Anniversary of the Business Appreciation Reception served as a beacon of inspiration, uniting all corners of Stafford County in celebration of its thriving business community. As Stafford continues to expand its economic climate, the EDA remains steadfast in its commitment to nurturing an environment where businesses can flourish, innovate, and succeed.
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About Stafford County Department of Economic Development | Stafford EDA:
The Stafford County Department of Economic Development is the sales and customer service arm for Stafford County, Virginia, committed to advancing expansion and investment for the community. As the official economic development organization of Stafford County, our mission is to promote, solicit and encourage business growth through marketing and media services that enhance economic activity and quality of life within the Stafford region. Stafford County is located halfway between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. In partnership with the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Stafford County Department of Economic Development and the EDA has helped finance and support business growth in Stafford since the EDA’s inception in 1970. In addition to business loan programs, in recent years, the EDA has helped develop a number of vacant and underused properties in Stafford and helped launch the Virginia Smart Community Testbed. For more information on Stafford’s Economic Development and the Stafford EDA, visit www.GoStaffordVA.com and www.StaffordEDA.com, and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, or get connected through the monthly business newsletter.
