The Virginia Chamber Foundation is pleased to present the 2026 Virginia Economic Summit and Forum on International Trade along with our co-hosts the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
The 2026 Virginia Economic Summit & Forum on International Trade will bring together business executives, economic development leaders, policymakers, and industry experts from across the Commonwealth to examine the forces shaping Virginia’s economic future.
Through timely conversations on site selection, business investment, international trade, aerospace and defense, regional economic development, and Virginia’s overall business climate, the Summit will explore what it takes to attract investment, support business growth, and strengthen the Commonwealth’s position in an increasingly competitive global economy.
The program will also reflect on the progress of Blueprint Virginia 2035, the Virginia Chamber’s long-term, business-led plan for economic growth and competitiveness, and the work underway to turn its recommendations into action.
Join leaders from across Virginia as we look at where the Commonwealth stands today, the opportunities and challenges ahead, and how the business community can help position Virginia for sustained economic growth through 2035 and beyond.
CONFIRMED LUNCHEON KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:
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FEATURED TOPICS:
Blueprint Virginia 2035: One Year Update
One year after the Chamber presented the Blueprint Virginia 2035 recommendations to Governor Spanberger, we will hear an update on how we are doing. What is going well? Where can we improve?
Site Selection: What are we looking for?
This year, Virginia was ranked third in CNBC’s Top States for Business list. Gain insight into one of the most important decisions a company makes: where to locate and invest from a Site Selector perspective.
How can Virginia maintain and grow its national recognition as a premier destination for business development?
Why Virginia? The Business Case for the Commonwealth
What truly sets Virginia apart in the eyes of company leaders? C-suite Executives from across the Commonwealth share why they choose to invest, expand, and thrive in Virginia.
The Business of Aerospace and Defense: International Trade and Virginia’s Competitive Advantage
Virginia’s aerospace and defense industry is an excellent example of how international trade creates economic opportunities across the Commonwealth. Learn how global partnerships, foreign investment, and international collaboration can expand business opportunities for Virginia companies through the lens of the aerospace and defense industry.
Building a Competitive Business Climate: Strategies for Sustainable Economic Growth
Economic development professionals from across the Commonwealth will discuss how different regions are attracting investment and helping to grow business long-term.
Accommodations
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Location: Greater Richmond Convention Center, Grand Ballrooms, Level 2 (Directly across from the Richmond Marriott Hotel) 403 North 3rd Street, Richmond, VA 23219
GPS/Directions to Parking Deck: 351 North 3rd Street, Richmond, VA 23219
Dress: Business Attire
Registration and Check-In: The registration desk is located on Level 3 in the foyer outside the Grand Ballrooms. Your name badge serves as your ticket for the day and includes your assigned luncheon seating.
Seating: The morning program is open seating unless you are a speaker or panelist. Check your name badge at check-in for your luncheon table assignment.
Parking: Parking in the GRCC Parking Deck is $10.00 per vehicle. The deck connects directly to the Convention Center via the 3rd level. Additional parking is available near the intersection of 5th Street and Marshall Street.
Please note there is one entrance to the parking deck, and guests pay as they enter. The entrance can become congested as guests arrive. Allow extra time to park and reach registration.
