Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development

Culepeper Star Exponent

Business Monday

Jim Charapich

March 25th, 2013

Congratulations to the former Thomas Jefferson Partnership for Economic Development on the name change. The new branding for the regional economic development powerhouse is Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development - aka CVPED. (http://www.centralva.org/ ) The name change is indicative of the “New Normal” commented Martin Briley, President & CEO of the Virginia Partnership for Economic Development during the new brand unveiling last week at the UVA Research Park in Charlottesville. He went on to say that the new branding equals a better voice in the global economy. Thomas Jefferson is a name that is claimed across the USA by communities for various reasons. The name did not clearly set us apart suggested Helen Cauthen, President and CEO of the newly named CVPED. Now when we show up on the radar for business opportunity - there is no doubt where we are.

Virginia Secretary of Trade and Commerce, Jim Cheng, in speaking at the unveiling, noted that Virginia is a strong brand globally. Most international business prospects can complete the phrase, Virginia is for … Lovers. We have a strong brand and the new name of CVPED will bring more attention to the Central Virginia area. Secretary Cheng also noted that 85% of the global purchasing power is outside of the USA. This points to opportunity to export products from our strategic regions in the Commonwealth. We have the assets to make this happen with strong air, rail, and sea port access. The new branding supports the  message that Virginia is the best state to do business.

CVPED under new leadership by President & CEO Helen Cauthen has made great strides in connecting the opportunities offered in our region. . In her brand unveiling presentation, Ms. Cauthen mentioned that she will be making presentations to groups around the country in the coming months promoting our region. The story of Central Virginia is rural quality of life, ready infrastructure, and adaptable skilled workforce. These are all components for consideration as employers evaluate locations. However, they all point to a more important measure. During a recent presentation by Frank Bossio, Culpeper County Administrator, he dialed in the real interest of business with regard to location. He pointed to “Quality of Work” as the real interest of business in locating and growing a business.

Culpeper, located on the northern end of the CVPED footprint is an important part of the story. Our business friendly environment, comprehensive infrastructure, and  passion to preserve our agricultural heritage creates a unique environment in delivering the newly coined term “Quality of Work”.  We are very pleased to be a part of the new branding. Central Virginia, at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a beautiful place in many ways. Thank you to the Board of CVPED for your leadership in moving Central Virginia forward.