Stafford Economic Development & Tourism
What's Next | January 2023 |
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Drones have many different purposes including aviation, air defense, information technology, cyber security, and recreation. Recreational drone usage has diversified over the last decade and has provided people with different ways to make memories whether it be through video recordings, photography, or just flying as a hobby. From aerodromes to unmanned aerial systems, Stafford County is leading the way in innovation and aviation. Read our latest blog and learn more. |
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Welcome to 2023. In this month’s newsletter we are announcing a new financing program to encourage tech-based business start-ups, and expansions. The Stafford EDA has established a forgivable loan program designed to foster “smart” tech-based business growth in Stafford. Yes, “forgivable loan”…meaning, if the business meets its growth plans, the loan converts to a “grant.” Coupled with RIoT’s accelerator programs and the upcoming Foundations Program—Stafford is leading the way in entrepreneurial development in our region.
We have designed this innovative program just as Stafford has driven innovation in technology for years. Including what we might call the first drone flight ever—right here in Stafford County in 1896.
We are also proud of our tourism efforts including launching 10 new tour itineraries for visitors and residents alike...my favorites include the Beer Lovers and Visual and Performing Arts itineraries.
Sincerely,
John Holden, Director Economic Development & Tourism |
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Entrepreneurship & Business Events |
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We are leading the way to build a stronger regional entrepreneurial community and “ecosystem” in the Stafford area. We strive to engage business leaders, seek out opportunities for new investments, foster talent development, and, most importantly, support the Stafford regional business community. Check out our upcoming events below, and don't forget to submit your business events to our events calendar here.
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Hospitality & Tourism Hiring Event | January 24 | 10:00 AM | Fredericksburg Nationals Stadium
This event, sponsored by the Bay Consortium Workforce Development Board, has been designed to bring together industry employers and the workforce. Onsite, there will be opportunities for jobseekers to find employment, resources to upskill and find training that can result in an industry-recognized certification, and additional support based on individual needs. Additionally, an hour has been set aside for the Veteran community. Veteran representatives will be on hand to discuss the resources and training available to them.
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Beer & Business: Raw Truth of the Stafford Regional Airport | February 8 | 4:00 PM | Adventure Brewing
The Stafford Beer & Business Series is a quarterly outing provided by the Stafford County Economic Development Authority. These events are designed to connect local professionals across all markets. In addition to networking, each Beer & Business outing will have a brief insightful, “Raw Truth” of an industry specific discussion, led by a local expert. This raw truth discussion will be led by Jim Stover, Director of the Stafford Regional Airport. |
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Stafford EDA announces new loan program |
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The Smart Technology Innovation Loan (STIL) is a new loan program from the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA). It is a forgivable loan focused on supporting tech-based start-up business growth in Stafford County. These loans will help attract startups to locate in Stafford and ensure we retain businesses and jobs in Stafford long-term. This initiative will further the success of entrepreneurial programs in the VA Smart Community Testbed supported by RIoT.
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RIoT Foundations now accepting applications |
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RIoT Foundations is for business owners, start-up founders, early stage companies, or prospective entrepreneurs who are exploring a new idea or product creation. This is a free, 4-week unique business coaching resource program and is a collection of weekly workshops and advising sessions that are specifically tailored to help your new business. The deadline to apply is February 24, 2023 and the session will run from March 6 to March 27, 2023. If you or someone you know is interested in joining RIoT's next Foundations cohort, you can find more information by clicking the button below. Also, check out their upcoming events like Lunch & Learn Series on February 1 and February 15, and Developer Day on March 7.
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Experiences and adventures await in D.C.’s backyard |
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Our Tourism team has been hard at work building new itineraries for all to explore in Stafford, Virginia. Whether promoting quality of life to your employees or looking to explore your own backyard, take a look at Stafford's new Tourism itineraries. Save time with our pre-planned itineraries and local recommendations.
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Stafford County is a pro-business community with an ambitious ecosystem for entrepreneurs, rising cyber and tech investments, and a place with a number of hidden gems to visit. We strive to engage our business leaders, seek out opportunities for new investments, foster talent development. |
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