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ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – Earlier today at the Orange County Public Safety Building, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger, along with the Orange County Board of Supervisors, other county officials, and representatives from L3Harris, announced a $1.27 billion expansion of the company’s production facility in Orange County. 

L3Harris is an industry leader in defense technology and solutions. This expansion will build upon the firm’s strong foundation in Orange County, with plans to construct new facilities at the existing site to support key solid rocket motor production operations spanning multiple Department of War programs. Over the next five years, the expansion will more than double the plant’s manufacturing space and add more than 350 new jobs.

“Today marks the beginning of an economic resurgence for Orange County. On behalf of the Board of Supervisors and our Economic Development team, we are thrilled to recognize and support L3Harris’ $1.27 billion expansion and the creation of 350+ new jobs in Orange County. This is a transformational announcement that will benefit Orange County for decades,” said Bryan Nicol, Chairman of the Orange County Board of Supervisors. “L3Harris has been an important, long-time member of our business community – making their growth and continued investment here particularly gratifying. This project is a recognition of Orange County’s strong business climate, its economic vitality, and our region’s qualified workforce.  The Board is grateful to be receiving a grant from Governor Spanberger’s Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund and support from the General Assembly’s Major Employment Investment Project Approval Commission to bring this opportunity to the Commonwealth,” Nicol said.

 “This project will mean a great deal for our community and economy,” said Crystal Coleman, District 4 Supervisor. The benefit of so many new high-quality jobs coming to our area will create lasting, positive impacts for Orange County. We are especially excited that the growth will be rooted in one of our well-established and deeply valued local businesses,” Coleman said.

“We are very excited to welcome this L3Harris expansion,” said Glenda Paul, Orange County Administrator. “I am proud of the efforts made by our Economic Development team to help bring this growth opportunity to Orange County, and I appreciate the support we received from our regional and state-level economic development partners as we worked to make it happen,” she added. 

“Today is an exciting day for economic development in Orange County. I’m grateful for the hard work of my team, the support of the Board of Supervisors, and the commitment of everyone at L3Harris who recognized that Orange County is the right place to make new investments and create new jobs. This announcement reflects the strength of our community and the bright future we’re building together,” said Julie Perry, Director of Economic Development and Tourism.

Orange County worked with the Central Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the Central Virginia Partnership, and the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment Project Approval Commission to secure this new investment. 

Read more here. 

For more information, please view these related press releases: 

Governor’s Office Press Release: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/newsreleases/2026/april-releases/name-1116451-en.html   

L3Harris Press Release: https://www.l3harris.com/newsroom/pressrelease/2026/04/l3harris-announces-billion-dollar-expansion-orange-county-virginia   

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources (VDHR) has been awarded a grant in the amount of $195,925 to the Friends of Wilderness Battlefield (FOWB) that will be used toward the purchase, preservation and interpretation of  a significant piece of  the 1863 Mine Run Battlefield, entitled the Randolph Artillery Tract, in Orange County, Virginia.

FOWB President Bob Lookabill remarks that  “FOWB wishes to acknowledge the tremendous support received from VDHR personnel and is profoundly grateful for their guidance as we move forward in the preservation and interpretation of this important piece of Orange County’s  Civil War history.” 

This property was a significant part of the 1863 Payne’s Farm fight that occurred during the Mine Run Campaign in 1863.  There is also other significant history that is pre- and post-Civil War connected to this property.  FoWB looks to 2026 to begin completing the preservation and interpretive process as well as reaching out for support as we continue to move forward.

FOWB is fully committed to advancing Orange County’s heritage tourism and battlefield preservation.  In addition, this property provides open space conservation, recreation and wildlife habitat opportunities along with the goal of presenting significant Orange County, State of Virginia and United States history.

FOWB’s purpose is to promote for the benefit of the public, the preservation, protection, and interpretation of the natural and historic resources located in the Wilderness area of Spotsylvania and Orange counties.

Additional information is available on FOWB’s website www. fowb.org.

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – According to the most recent data released by the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), visitor spending for Orange County exceeded $57.6 million in 2024, a 6% increase compared to 2023. During the same time frame, tourism-supported jobs in Orange totaled 520, while local tourism-related local taxes were $2.5 million. These statistics indicate a strong and growing tourism industry in Orange County. Orange County’s numbers reflected trends at the state level. Virginia generated $35.1 billion in visitor spending in 2024, an increase of 5.4% from 2023. The tourism industry in Virginia directly supported over 224,000 jobs in 2024, as visitor-facing industries accounted for more than 5% of all jobs in Virginia last year. 

“Orange County’s tourism success is rooted in the stories we preserve and the experiences we share. As we prepare to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, our historic sites and cultural landmarks are drawing increased attention from visitors eager to connect with the past in meaningful ways. At the same time, our vibrant wineries, scenic landscapes, and locally owned businesses offer modern-day appeal that complement our heritage,” said Julie Perry, Director of Economic Development & Tourism. “Tourism here isn’t just economic—it’s a celebration of legacy and lifestyle, and we’re proud to see that reflected in growing visitor engagement,” she added. For more information about Tourism in Orange County, contact Julie Perry, Director of Economic Development and Tourism, at jperry@orangecountyva.gov, or (540) 661-5324. 

The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce the businesses selected to participate in the fourth annual Locally Made Market at the Montpelier Hunt Races. Inseparability Designs, Original Designs by Maria Pace, Bound2Please Books, Metal Maiden Jewelry, and Samurai Creatives, will all be featured under the Locally Made Market tent.

This program was created to support and encourage local entrepreneurship and will allow for these home-based business owners to connect with a larger consumer base.

Ashley Weaver, co-owner of Inseparability Designs stated, “We're truly honored to be part of the Montpelier Hunt Races Local Maker's Market. This opportunity allows us to share our passion with a wider audience, and we hope that our humble offerings will resonate with the wonderful crowd attending this prestigious event. The exposure here is a privilege, and we believe this experience will help our business grow and flourish."

The 89th running of Montpelier Hunt Races takes place on November 2, with gates opening at 9:00 a.m. The Locally Made Market tent can be found amongst other vendors in the Vendor Village.

For more information regarding this program, please contact the Economic Development & Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

According to the most recent statistics released by the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), visitor spending for Orange County reached $54.4 million in 2023, a 3.1% change over 2022. Tourism-supported jobs in Orange totaled 660 while local tourism-related taxes were $3 million.

At the state level, Virginia generated a record high $33.3 billion in visitor spending in 2023, an increase of nearly 10% from 2022, exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 14.7%. The tourism industry in Virginia directly supported over 224,000 jobs in 2023, an increase of over 13,000 jobs relative to 2022. Direct travel employment is now at 93% of pre-pandemic employment levels. Visitor-facing industries accounted for more than 5% of all jobs in Virginia last year.

All five categories of visitor spending in the Commonwealth have now fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels and beyond. Those categories include recreation, transportation, lodging, food & beverage, and retail. Recreation was the fastest growing category in 2023, up 12% over 2022 and 24% beyond pre-pandemic levels, more than any other category, as travelers continue to show a strong preference for experiences.

“Visitors contribute significantly to the tax base in Orange County and 2023 was a banner year for the local industry. In addition to year-over-year growth, Orange surpassed its pre-pandemic spending levels by 19.3%” said Julie Perry, Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “We’re proud of the historic sites, craft beverage producers, agritourism attractions, small businesses and boutique lodging partners that work so hard to make Orange County a great destination for everyone to enjoy!"

For more information, contact Julie Perry, Director of Economic Development and Tourism, at jperry@orangecountyva.gov, or (540) 661-5324.

Read more here. 

Spelled Ink Awarded $10,000 Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant through American Express and Main Street America

On Tuesday, June 25, American Express and Main Street America announced the grant recipients for the Backing Small Businesses Grant Program. Spelled Ink, based in Orange, Virginia was among the winners. For Spelled Ink bookstore, this grant will help greatly as we expand our current location, and create a more comfortable environment for our beloved community. We plan to use the grant to furnish the expanded space, provide more stock, better signage, and make the store more accessible for our community. American Express and Main Street America today announced the 500 small business owners who have been awarded $10,000 through the Backing Small Businesses grant program. The program’s 2024 grant recipients represent U.S. small businesses across all 50 states, plus D.C. and Puerto Rico. Later this year, grantees will have the opportunity to apply for an additional $30,000 enhancement grant that will be awarded to 25 small businesses. Since launching in 2021, Backing Small Businesses has provided over $9 million in grants to 1,180 small business owners nationwide. American Express and Main Street America initially created the grant program to help economically vulnerable small business owners recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and grow their businesses. This program is part of American Express’ “Backing Small” initiative to provide financial support and resources to small business owners experiencing economic hardships. Other

Backing Small grant programs include Backing Historic Small Restaurants and Backing International Small Restaurants. Backing Small is an extension of American Express’ longstanding commitment to support small independent businesses globally, including through its Shop Small movement and Small Business Saturday campaign, celebrating its 15th anniversary this year. Meet the most recent Backing Small Businesses Enhancement Grant Recipients: https://mainstreet.org/the-latest/news/500-small-business-owners-receive-10-000-grants-through-backing-small-businesses-program

To learn more about the Backing Small Businesses grant program and learn about the grantees, click here.

Read more here.

Orange County is pleased to announce the promotion of Julie Perry from Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism to Director, Economic Development and Tourism, effective immediately. Perry joined the team in early 2022 with extensive tourism marketing experience from her tenures with the City of Fredericksburg’s Department of Economic Development and Tourism and the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

Her work related to the Edna Lewis Media Event and Menu Trail programs helped Orange County win state and national awards for excellence, concluding with the recent placement of a Virginia Department of Historic Resources Highway Marker in Lewis’s honor on April 13. The multi-year program secured over 30 media placements in local, state, and national publications on behalf of Lewis and Orange County. Perry has overseen steady growth in tourism awareness and engagement with the Orange Uncovered story telling initiative, the Corks and Caps Craft Beverage Trail, and the Gordonsville Fried Chicken social marketing campaign with the platform Simply Southern. Perry has also been integral in the multi-faceted Enjoy Orange initiative that promotes local businesses and encourages both residents and visitors to shop locally.

Since assuming the Director position in an interim capacity in November 2023, she has refined her skills by becoming a member of the Virginia Economic Developers Association and attending the Virginia Institute for Economic Development. Under her leadership, Orange County saw the ribbon cutting for the MacMillian Publishing expansion, announced VA Brownfield Grant Awards for two property remediation efforts, received a Commonwealth Opportunity Fund Award from the Governor’s Office to incentivize the $41.2 million expansion of Aerojet Rocketdyne facilities, and put into motion Economic Development Authority (EDA) efforts to improve site-readiness in the Thomas E. Lee Industrial Park.

Perry is excited to begin her new role in earnest, saying “Orange County is a special place – it’s a privilege to lead the Economic Development and Tourism programs here. I am committed that we will continue to be a leader in Tourism Marketing around Virginia, a resource for Small Businesses, a champion of Workforce Development, and an enthusiastic partner in Business Attraction and Recruitment efforts for smart-growth in Orange County. I see this crossroads as an opportunity for Orange to be proactive in bolstering its economy and putting development plans in to action that will have a positive effort for generations to come.”

Orange County Communications Department, 11350 Porter Road, Orange, Virginia 22960

For more information about starting or expanding a business in Orange County, visit www.thinkorangeva.com. To plan your trip and learn more about the attractions in our area, visit www.visitorangevirginia.com. Those with questions are encouraged to contact the Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here.

Orange County is excited to announce that Aerojet Rocketdyne, an L3Harris Technologies company, will be expanding their operations in our community. Aerojet Rocketdyne’s Orange County site is home to some of the most advanced defense and space propulsion research, development, and manufacturing operations in the world. The site includes the Orange Altitude Test Facility, a fully-equipped propellant lab and a state-of-the-art air-breathing test facility. In their press release, Aerojet Rocketdyne announced its plans to construct new facilities, purchase new equipment, and hire 80 new employees over the next three years.

“This agreement builds upon company and U.S. government investments in our solid rocket motor production capabilities for critical defense systems,” said Ross Niebergall, President, Aerojet Rocketdyne, L3Harris. “We have been a part of the Virginia community for decades and look forward to growing our talented workforce here as we produce the vital propulsion that helps protect our nation and its allies.”

“Our country’s security depends on defense manufacturers like L3Harris, and we are proud that this long-term corporate partner continues to reinvest in Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The Commonwealth’s vibrant industrial and technological ecosystem provides an ideal home for the booming aerospace industry, underpinned by a top-notch workforce pipeline that draws from thousands of service members who exit the armed services in Virginia every year and our excellent schools that ensure a steady flow of new talent.”

“This is an exciting announcement. On behalf of the Orange County Board of Supervisors and our Economic Development team, I am pleased to support L3Harris’ efforts to add 80 new jobs and expand their operations in Orange County over the next 36 months,” said R. Mark Johnson, Chairman, Orange County Board of Supervisors. “L3Harris has been an important member of our business community for many years – making their $41.2 million investment particularly gratifying. Receiving the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund grant from Governor Youngkin and VEDP is a recognition of Orange County’s pro-business climate, its economic vitality, and our region’s qualified workforce.”

For more information, please view the Governor’s press release, the press release from L3Harris, or contact our Economic Development Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

Two locations in Orange County have been selected to benefit from Virginia Brownfields Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund (VBAF) Site Remediation Grants totaling over $600,000. The selected locations are the former Virginia Metal Industries property on Old Gordonsville Road and the former Earl’s Glass Shop at the intersection of Caroline and West Church streets in the Town of Orange.

Brownfields are properties where the presence of hazardous materials, pollution, or contaminants may complicate the reuse or redevelopment of the location. VBAF grants help local governments address these obstacles. Orange County and the Orange County Economic Development Authority will utilize these funds with the aim of making these former commercial locations attractive for new business uses.

“In Orange County, we are always seeking to attract new businesses while preserving the character of our community’ said Julie Perry, Interim Director of Economic Development and Tourism. “Rehabilitating brownfields is particularly gratifying work because it occurs at the intersection of old and new. Rehabilitating and reutilizing existing properties to attract new businesses maximizes the utility of our available buildings and allows us to breathe new life into a space,” she added.

More information about this year’s grant awards is available in a press release from the Governor’s Office at www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2024/february/name-1020891-en.html. Visit www.vedp.org/brownfields for more information on the Virginia Brownfield Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund. For more information about these locations, or Economic Development in Orange County, contact the Economic Development Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here.

ORANGE, VA – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce the holiday version of its popular video series enJOY Orange. Beginning the week of Thanksgiving and leading into Small Business Saturday over 50 Orange County Small Businesses will be featured in a variety of programs encouraging locals and visitors alike to Shop Local in Orange County. 

Joy the Elf has left Santa’s Workshop for a Holiday adventure in Orange.  She’s made her rounds to just a few of the many special places to shop, eat and explore this holiday!  You can follow her antics by watching the new video, picking up a holiday gift guide, joining in the social media conversation or taking your picture by one of the new window clings that will be displayed in business windows all around Orange County.    Share with the hashtag #enJOYorange to see who else is in on the fun! 

Julie Perry, Interim Director of Economic Development and Tourism says “This new 4th Quarter Program has been designed to reach citizens and visitors with a lighthearted shop local message.  The Small Business Administration tells us that for every $1.00 spent in a local business, .67 cents stays in the local economy.  It’s so important to shop locally and support the businesses that make Orange County a special place to live, work and play.  We’re inviting everyone to Be like Joy the Elf and shop local this holiday season!”

For more information regarding enJOY Orange please go to www.thinkorangeva.com/living-here/enjoy-orange or contact Julie Perry, Interim Director of Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

According to the most recent statistics released by the Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC), visitor spending for Orange County reached $52.8 Million in 2022, a 4.5% increase over 2021. Tourism supported 485 jobs in Orange County while local tourism-related taxes were $2.2 Million.

At the state level, Virginia enjoyed $30.3 billion in visitor spending in 2022, an increase of 20.3% from 2021, exceeding 2019 levels by 4.4%. The tourism industry in Virginia directly supported 210,721 jobs in 2022, an increase of more than 25,000 jobs relative to 2021, but still down about 30,000 jobs relative to 2019. All data is from Tourism Economics and is based on visitor spending from trips taken at least 50 miles away from home.

The leading tourism sectors in Virginia are recreation and food and beverage, which have exceeded 2019 levels by 10%. The local food and beverage industry in Orange County had a particularly impressive year of growth with overall revenues of $15.1 million in 2022 compared to $13.8 million in 2021.

Julie Perry, Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism, said “Total tourism expenditures in Orange County exceeded pre-pandemic levels in 2021, so this extra growth in 2022 is especially exciting. It’s a tribute to the local attractions, small businesses and lodging facilities that make Orange County such a great place to visit!” For more information, contact Julie Perry, Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism, at jperry@orangecountyva.gov.

Read more here.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission invites all employers in Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock Counties to take a survey about the local business environment. The survey is part of a collaborative regional planning effort that RRRC is leading, along with a mix of partners across the region.

The RRRC will be preparing a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy that establishes a vision for the region’s economic development programs and projects over the next five years. To best inform the strategies going forward, the RRRC is engaging employers and other key stakeholders to fully understand the issues and opportunities facing businesses throughout the region. Your responses to the survey will directly inform the biggest areas in need of addressing within the current business climate and aid in developing strategies going forward.

The business climate within these counties has become a prevalent issue in discussions around the potential for economic development in the region in recent years. The study will seek to identify challenges in the business climate through data-driven analysis and strategize ways to tackle these challenges through ambitious, but practical solutions.

“We appreciate all organizations small and large contributing their views and opinions into this survey. All input will be incorporated with qualitative and quantitative data also collected during the CEDS development and we look forward to sharing results and strategies as the process continues,” said Patrick Mauney, RRRC Executive Director.

The online survey is open through October 15, 2023 and should take fewer than 10 minutes to complete. The survey is available in English and Spanish and can be accessed at https://www.rrregion.org/cedssurvey

The RRRC is asking all private, non-profit, and public employers in the region to take the survey so it can collect the most accurate data possible, establish employer needs, and help identify the best partners to conduct this work.

For more information about the housing study and strategy and to learn how to get involved, please visit https://www.rrregion.org/ceds

About the Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission serves the counties of Culpeper, Fauquier, Madison, Orange, and Rappahannock, and the towns of Culpeper, Gordonsville, Madison, Orange, Remington, The Plains, Washington, and Warrenton. The 21-member RRRC board includes elected and appointed officials appointed by each member jurisdiction. Localities with greater than 3,500 residents appoint two members to the regional commission, while localities with fewer than 3,500 residents appoint one member to the regional commission.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission facilitates a collaborative approach to regional cooperation, and serves as a convening forum for the interaction of appointed and elected local government officials, regional stakeholders and citizen members. The Regional Commission coordinates a broad range of regional planning activities – including multi-modal and human services transportation, environmental planning, homelessness and affordable housing coordination, regional tourism, agricultural, and economic development activities. The Rappahannock-Rapidan Regional Commission is located in Culpeper, VA, and can be found online at http://www.rrregion.org/.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – On Wednesday, September 27, 2023, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., the Orange County Economic Development Office and the Virginia Career Works Center in Orange County will host a Hiring Event. Career seekers from the community are invited to speak to hiring managers with job openings in manufacturing, retail, food service, administration, healthcare, agriculture, logistics, distribution, and more.

“There are a lot of opportunities for career seekers across a variety of industries in the area! Whether you are looking for full or part-time employment, there will be an abundance of opportunities to connect with local businesses,” said Jason Ford with the Virginia Career Works Center.

Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development for Orange County, noted, “We’re excited to once again team up with Virginia Career Works to host a local employer hiring event. Several Orange County businesses, who represent a variety of employment sectors, will be present and eager to welcome career seekers. We encourage folks to stop by to learn about and discuss the many full and part-time career opportunities that are available.”

The event will be held at the Orange Train Depot, located at 122 East Main Street, Orange, VA 22960. All participants are encouraged to register for the event at https://bit.ly/3OEbOGm.

For more information regarding this event, please contact Jason Ford at (540) 212-4570 or jason.ford@fredgoodwill.org. Free resume writing assistance and interview preparation is also available through a dedicated Mobile Resource Specialist at any of the three Orange County Library branches. For information regarding the Orange County Mobile Resource Specialist’s hours at each location, please visit www.thinkorangeva.com/support/orange-workforce-center.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce the businesses selected to participate in the third annual Locally Made Market at the Montpelier Hunt Races. Honey Springs Bees, LLC, Inseparability Designs, and Van’s Woodshop, LLC, will be featured under the Locally Made Market tent. This program was created to support and encourage local entrepreneurship and will allow these home-based businesses to gain valuable exposure to a new, larger customer base.

Ashley Weaver, co-owner of Inseparability Designs stated, "We're truly honored to be part of the Montpelier Hunt Races Local Maker's Market. This opportunity allows us to share our passion with a wider audience, and we hope that our humble offerings will resonate with the wonderful crowd attending this prestigious event. The exposure here is a privilege, and we believe this experience will help our business grow and flourish."

The 88th running of Montpelier Hunt Races takes place on November 4, 2023, with gates opening at 9:00 a.m. The Locally Made Market tent can be found amongst other vendors in the Vendor Village. For more information regarding this program, please contact the Economic Development & Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here.

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – For half a century, American Woodmark's Orange, VA, manufacturing facility has been a cornerstone of the company's success. From humble beginnings in 1973 to becoming one of the largest cabinet manufacturers in the United States, the Orange facility has played a critical role in delivering high-quality, affordable cabinets to customers across the country.

American Woodmark takes great pride in their commitment to sustainability, and the Orange facility is no exception. From recycling waste materials to using energy-efficient equipment, they are always looking for ways to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.

“Our success is only made possible by our team members' hard work and dedication. Many of our team members have been with us for decades, and their expertise and attention to detail are what sets our cabinets apart. We're proud to provide a safe, supportive workplace where our employees can thrive and grow. Over the past 50 years, we've faced many challenges and overcome countless obstacles, but our commitment to excellence has remained strong. We're proud to be a part of the Orange County community and grateful for the support of our customers and partners across the country,” stated an American Woodmark representative.

American Woodmark continues to innovate and improve to meet the ever-changing needs of their customers and the industry. The Orange, VA, manufacturing facility plays a vital part in the company's success now, and will for many years to come.

“We are thrilled to celebrate American Woodmark’s 50th anniversary with them and support their continued growth. Their success is extremely important to our community. For years, American Woodmark has been a major employer of County residents, and this remains the same today,” noted Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development and Tourism.

Orange County welcomes new businesses and is well-positioned for their long-term success. If you are interested in starting, moving, or expanding your business, please consider Orange County, Virginia. For more information and assistance, contact our Economic Development Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – Orange County is honored to receive two Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) Achievement Awards in recognition of exemplary programs. The Office of Economic Development and Tourism was recognized for the Edna Lewis Menu Trail and the County of Orange Fire & EMS Department (COFEMS) was recognized for their Firefighter/EMT Education & Workforce Partnership Initiative.

The Edna Lewis Menu Trail earned the Achievement Award thanks to its meaningful efforts to address underrepresentation and share the remarkable story of Chef Edna Lewis. Though just as groundbreaking and influential as other famous chefs of the time, she is not as well known outside of culinary circles. To help spread the word, media representatives were invited to an event in October 2022 which included information about her legacy and a familiarization tour. The results of this effort continue to showcase her influence and elevate Orange County as a destination. For more information about this program, read the full nomination document or call (540) 661-5324.

COFEMS built upon last year’s success, when they were recognized with the title of “Best Small County Achievement” for their Whole Blood Program. This year’s Achievement Award recognized their efforts to address the widespread issue of recruiting qualified emergency personnel. A first in the state, COFEMS partnered with Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) to train the EMS and firefighter leaders of tomorrow in active stations, not classrooms, for Firefighter 1 and EMS courses. This has translated into internships and new hires in our community. For more information about this program, read the full nomination document or call (540) 672-7044.

“Orange County is again receiving recognition for our culture of innovation. Our employees continue to look for new ways to serve our community and I join with the Board of Supervisors in expressing appreciation for their work. Making a positive impact on people's lives is what we do.” said Theodore Voorhees, Orange County Administrator. For more information about VACo Achievement Awards, read their official press release.

Read more here.

Orange County, VA - The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to, once again, host the Locally Made Market at the Montpelier Hunt Races. To encourage local entrepreneurship, the office would like to offer home-based businesses the opportunity to compete for one of three FREE spots in a shared vendor tent to market and sell their product(s) at the event.

“We are excited be able to continue to provide local, home-based entrepreneurs with this opportunity to showcase their products and connect with thousands of visitors who attend the Montpelier Hunt Races. Feedback from previous Locally Made Market vendors has been very positive, with all of them noting that the opportunity has been extremely beneficial in helping their business grow,” stated Rose Deal, Economic Development Director.

To be considered for one of the three vendor spaces, interested parties should submit a brief presentation about their business in Word or PowerPoint format, along with a fully completed application, no later than Friday, August 31, 2023. Completed packets must be submitted to Regan McKay at rmckay@orangecountyva.gov or via mail to 109 West Main Street, Orange, VA 22960. Program guidelines and the application are available at www.thinkorangeva.com/support.

For more information regarding this program, or for assistance completing the application, please contact the Economic Development & Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here.

Orange County, VA – Orange County is pleased to announce that MITRE Corporation, is launching a new drone range in Orange County. The drone range promises to bring world-leading cutting-edge research and technology to Orange County. As a not-for-profit technology and R&D company, MITRE Corporation connects government, academic, and industry partnerships to tackle complex national and global challenges. For the past 65 years, McLean, Virginia based MITRE Corporation has worked without commercial conflicts of interest to solve problems for a safer world.

The MITRE Corporation currently has an office in North Fork - A UVA Discovery Park, located in Albemarle County. The expansion will support their operations in Central Virginia. “The Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development is delighted to retain this expansion in our region and continue to strengthen our innovation ecosystem,” stated Helen Cauthen, President of Central Virginia Partnership for Economic Development.

This expansion is anticipated to create many new jobs over the next four (4) years. The Economic Development Authority has entered into a land lease agreement with MITRE Corporation, for a 16-acre parcel in the county-owned Thomas E. Lee Industrial Park. “MITRE Corporation’s decision to invest in Orange County is an exciting one for the community. This investment is a testament to Orange County’s pro-business climate, and we are pleased to welcome them to Orange County,” noted Rose Deal, Economic Development Director.

“MITRE is excited to launch a first of its kind drone range in Orange County. MITRE’s mission-driven teams are dedicated to solving problems for a safer world. Through our public private partnerships and federally funded R&D centers, we work across government and in partnership with industry to tackle challenges to the safety, stability, and well-being of our nation,” noted Yosry Barsoum, Vice President and Director of MITRE’s Center for Securing the Homeland.

For more information, please contact Rose Deal, at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here.

Orange County, VA – The Orange County Economic Development Office, in collaboration with the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC), is hosting a FREE business development opportunity. The Gordonsville Business Boost Workshop will be offered on Monday, July 10th, 2023, from 9:00 – 10:00 am in the Gordonsville Town Hall, located at 112 South Main Street, Gordonsville, VA 22942.

The Gordonsville Business Boost workshop is available for businesses interested in learning about the various, free resources available and how to use them to boost their business in 2023.  Topics covered will include; CV SBDC office hours in Orange County, Community Investment Collaborative programs and funding, CV SBDC workshops and topics, Orange County’s Revolving Loan Fund, Orange County’s Incentive Policy, Orange County’s Business Directory, Orange County’s Tourism Industry Marketing Leverage Grant, and more.

An experienced business advisor will also be available for FREE, confidential 1-on-1 business counseling sessions, immediately following the Workshop. Counseling sessions are available by appointment only, please call the CVSBDC at (434) 295-8198 to schedule your appointment.

This event is FREE to all businesses and light refreshments will be provided. To reserve your seat at the workshop, register online at https://cvsbdc.org/event/gordonsville-business-boost/.

If you have any questions please contact Regan McKay, Economic Development and Tourism Assistant at (540) 672-1238 or rmckay@orangecountyva.gov. 

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to launch the inaugural six videos in the Orange Uncovered series. The concept is to tell lesser-known stories throughout Orange County’s history to build awareness about what Orange has to offer visitors and residents alike. The videos will be marketed in an advertising campaign utilizing a $20,000 grant from the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

The Orange Uncovered videos tell stories from Barboursville Vineyards, the Germanna Foundation, Ellwood Plantation/Friends of the Wilderness Battlefield, the African American Historical Society, the Town of Gordonsville and the James Madison Museum of Orange County Heritage.

Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism Julie Perry said “The Orange Uncovered videos are brief snippets of just a few of the amazing stories that Orange County has to tell. It is our hope that highlighting these moments in history will increase awareness of Orange County and be a catalyst for increased visitation.”

In addition to the online content and videos the Orange Uncovered program also includes widely distributed brochures, printed materials, and an in-market photo op soon to be revealed at the Orange County visitor centers. For more information regarding Orange Uncovered please go to www.VisitOrangeVirginia.com or contact Julie Perry, Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA –Orange County is pleased to announce The Edna Lewis Menu Trail program a winner of the 2023 NACo Achievement Award. Through this initiative, the Department of Economic Development and Tourism aims to highlight Orange County’s Black history, agriculture, and current culinary industries while commemorating the 50th Anniversary of the release of Edna Lewis’ first cookbook – The Edna Lewis Cookbook.

Known as the Grand Dame of Southern Cooking – her cookbooks are seminal works on farm-to-table dining, southern cuisine, and Black history.

The Menu Trail program has attracted national media attention and visitors from afar featuring Orange County restaurant stops along the way.

Julie Perry, Assistant Director of Economic Development and Tourism says, “The Edna Lewis Menu Trail has been an important tool to tell Mrs. Lewis’ story and explain how her life in Orange County shaped her culinary perspective and Southern Cuisine.”

Through The Menu Trial, Orange County has helped preserve history, a way of life and the cultural contributions made by generations of African American women in the South.

Visitors can experience The Edna Lewis Menu trail now through Memorial Day.

For more information visit https://visitorangevirginia.com/taste/the-edna-lewis-menu-trail/ or contact Julie Perry at jperry@orangecountyva.gov.

Read more here.

Effective immediately, the Virginia Career Works - Orange Workforce Center will provide workforce services by appointment only.   Job-seekers may contact Virginia Career Works directly to make an appointment at (540) 212-4570, option 3.   Services can be provided virtually, in-person at specific locations in Orange County, and in-person at the Virginia Career Works - Culpeper Center, located at 210 E Steven St., Ste. 200 Culpeper, VA 22701.  

This change represents the first step in workforce services being offered in a mobile form.  Beginning on July 1, 2023, Orange County workforce services will no longer be provided at the Center located at 127 Belleview Ave, Orange, VA 22960. Instead, workforce services will be available one day per week, in each of the three Orange County Library locations. “We are excited to make the services of Virginia Career Works even more accessible to Orange County,” shared Marty Bywaters-Baldwin, Chief Mission Officer for Rappahannock Goodwill. “Whether creating a resume, applying for a job, or accessing funding for training, the partnership with the library system will allow more Orange residents and businesses to be served.”  

Branch locations and hours of operation for workforce services are listed below. Please note that times listed are only for workforce services, and do not reflect the Library hours of operation.

Branch Locations and Hours of Operation:

Tuesdays - 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Orange County Main Library

146A Madison Road, Orange, VA 22960

Wednesdays - 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Gordonsville Library

319 N. Main Street, Gordonsville, VA 22942

Thursdays - 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM Wilderness Library

6421 Flat Run Road, Locust Grove, VA 22508

“We are thrilled to continue our partnership with Virginia Career Works – Piedmont Region, and to be able to pilot a mobile offering of workforce services to job-seekers.  Bringing these services to the three Library branches will allow more folks to gain access to the valuable programs and services offered.” noted Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development and Tourism.

For more information regarding workforce services, please visit the Virginia Career Works page or contact them at (540) 212-4570, option 3. 

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Orange, Virginia - The Market at Grelen is thrilled to announce the opening of its newest venture, The Grelen Depot. With historic preservation, art and beauty in mind, this versatile property was thoughtfully renovated and designed by Grelen Co-Owner, Leslie Gregg. Located in the town of Orange, Virginia, her goal was to restore this classic old world building with creativity and charm adding to the character of its adorable Main Street. The ultimate vision was to glamorize the exterior while creating a variety of small elegant indoor venue spaces that compliment The Market at Grelen. The end result is a contemporary building that exudes warmth and a bit of European flair.

The Grelen Depot boasts high ceilings, ample natural light, an art gallery, bar and lounge areas as well as a loft space with a range of seating options. Each space has its own distinct personality and all can be used for a variety of events including weddings, rehearsal dinners, holiday parties, workshops, corporate retreats, and more. One or more spaces can be rented to create the perfect experience for the guest. Specifically there are three distinct event spaces: The Gallery, The Lounge & The Loft. The Gallery & Lounge work well together for a wedding ceremony and reception but also serve as an Art Gallery that will be open periodically for art openings. The Loft has a different vibe featuring whimsical neon signs and a retro lounge area that simply calls out for live music and fun!

Finally, The Depot also features a luxury two-room suite, called The 118. This space has a living room, bedroom and glamorous full bath. It was designed with honeymoon couples in mind, but makes for a perfect getaway for those looking to explore all that Central Virginia has to offer.

Known for a commitment to excellence and unparalleled customer service, Grelen is excited to introduce Central Virginia’s newest premier event venue. Whether one is looking to host an intimate celebration, plan an unforgettable 50th birthday party or stay the night, The Grelen Depot is sure to please.

To learn more about The Grelen Depot and/or to schedule a tour, please visit our website at www.grelendepot.com or contact us directly at 540-672-7268. We can’t wait to help you create an unforgettable event.

Contact:

The Grelen Depot

118 E Main St, Orange, VA 22960

info@themarketatgrelen.com

IG: @grelendepot

www.grelendepot.com

Read more here.

Charlottesville, VA – The Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) will expand its signature program, a 16-week Entrepreneur Workshop for aspiring and existing business owners, to Culpeper and Orange this Fall. In partnership with the Economic Development Offices of the Town of Culpeper and Orange County, the workshop will launch on August 22, 2023 at the Carver Center in Rapidan, VA, located off of James Madison Highway. Applications open May 1, 2023 and are available online at cicville.org/culpeper-orange-workshop. 

“Community Investment Collaborative’s 16-Week Workshop is a proven driver for building an entrepreneurship ecosystem. It’s designed to help entrepreneurs do two things: determine if the business can be viable, and learn the basics of running a business,“ said Paige Read, Director of Economic Development and Tourism, Town of Culpeper. “We are grateful for the partnership with Orange County Economic Development in bringing this series north to the greater Culpeper-Orange community. I am confident participants who complete the program will be better prepared for an ever changing business landscape.” 

CIC expanded its service area to include Orange, Culpeper, Madison, and Rappahannock counties in 2020 when it took over as host of the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC). CIC also partnered with The Town of Culpeper and Orange, Culpeper, Madison and Fauquier Counties to manage business grant programs that were funded by the CARES Act to support businesses impacted by COVID-19. Adding an additional location for the Entrepreneur Workshop implements a portion of the organization’s strategic plan to increase program offerings to rural communities in its region, with a focus on under-resourced entrepreneurs. 

“We are excited to partner with the Town of Culpeper Economic Development and Tourism Office to bring this enriching opportunity closer to our respective business communities. Historically, attendance by Orange County businesses to this workshop has been low. We are confident that bringing this course closer to home will allow for more accessibility, therefore increasing participation by Orange County business owners and entrepreneurs,” said Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development and Tourism, Orange County. 

The Fall 2023 sessions of the Entrepreneur Workshop will take place in Culpeper-Orange and Charlottesville, simultaneously. Each cohort will have dedicated team members, workgroup leaders, and session facilitators to assist the entrepreneurs in successfully completing the rigorous program. Interested participants are encouraged to apply online and will be prompted to select a cohort in accordance with where their business will be located and what is most feasible for them to participate weekly. 

This project was made possible through the support of The Town of Culpeper Economic Development and Tourism Office and Orange County Economic Development, and funded in part by GO Virginia, a state-funded initiative administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) that strengthens and diversifies Virginia’s economy and fosters the creation of higher wage jobs in strategic industries. 

Entrepreneur Workshop graduates have the option to be paired with mentors and join Small Business Circles for ongoing support and insight from fellow entrepreneurs, and are also eligible to explore other aspects of CIC, including its Financial Management Program and its microloan program, which offers financing options of up to $50,000 to help them formally launch or expand their businesses. 

Applications are available May 1 - July 7, 2023. Classes will be held weekly, on Tuesday evenings, at the Carver Center, from 6PM - 9PM, August 22 - December 12, 2023. To apply for the upcoming Entrepreneur Workshop or to learn more about CIC, its programming and available resources, please visit https://cicville.org. 

Learn more here. 

To read more click here.

Orange County, VA – Orange County Economic Development is pleased to announce that Forked on Main, located in the Historic Sparks Building at 124 West Main Street in the Town of Orange is under new ownership. Business partners Stephanie Saperstein, and Will Miguel, purchased the existing restaurant on February 1, 2023. Ms. Saperstein has served as the General Manager of Forked on Main for the past year, and Mr. Miguel has served as the Executive Chef since November 2022.

Orange County Economic Development supported this new acquisition by connecting Ms. Saperstein and Mr. Miguel with various community partners and to the Department’s network of business resources provided by Community Investment Collaborative and the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center.

“For the past five years, Forked on Main has been a staple for Downtown Orange, serving guests with a unique twist on Americana cuisine, in an exceptional setting. We look forward to witnessing Forked’s continued growth and success in the community,” noted Rose Deal, Economic Development & Tourism Director.

For more information regarding Forked on Main, please visit http://forkedonmain.com/.

Read more here.

Orange County, VA – The Orange County Economic Development Office, in collaboration with the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC), is hosting a FREE business development opportunity. The Orange County Business Boost Workshop will be offered on Tuesday, January 31, 2022, from 8:00 – 9:00 am in the Orange County Airport Conference Room, located at 11275 Aviation Way, Orange, VA 22960.

The Orange County Business Boost workshop is available for businesses interested in learning about the various, free resources available and how to use them to boost their business in 2023.  Topic covered will include; CV SBDC office hours in Orange County, Community Investment Collaborative programs and funding, CV SBDC workshops and topics, Orange County’s Revolving Loan Fund, Orange County’s Incentive Policy, Orange County’s Business Directory, Tourism Industry Marketing Leverage Grant, and more.

An experienced business advisor will also be available for FREE, confidential 1-on-1 business counseling sessions, immediately following the Workshop. Counseling sessions are available by appointment only, please call the CVSBDC at (434) 295-8198 to schedule your appointment.

This event is FREE to all Orange County businesses and a light breakfast will be provided. For more information and to reserve your seat at the workshop, please contact Regan McKay, Economic Development and Tourism Assistant at (540) 672-1238 or rmckay@orangecountyva.gov. 

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – Orange County Economic Development and Tourism Director, Rose Deal, recently completed a two-week Advanced Economic Development Leadership (ADEL) Executive Education Program and was awarded the Master Economic Development Practitioner (MEDP) certificate.  Mrs. Deal has been an economic development practitioner for seven (7) years.  Deal noted that, “The Advanced Economic Development Leadership program was an exceptional learning experience!  It allowed me to convene and collaborate with like-minded economic development professionals from around the country, while also learning about today’s leadership and economic development best practices. I look forward to applying these new skills with our staff and community.” 

AEDL is a collaboration of three universities – The University of Southern Mississippi, Texas Christian University, and the University of New Mexico. These universities are committed to excellence in economic development and advancing the knowledge, skills, and application of key job creation strategies in America’s cities, communities, and counties.

The AEDL program is immersive and challenging. The experiential curriculum enhances key skills necessary for leading successful community and economic development strategies. Led by experienced world-class faculty, program topics include negotiation, personal and professional leadership, successful teamwork, site selection, economic development, incentives, innovative data for retention, expansion, attraction, entrepreneurship, talent, and more.  The Advanced Economic Development Leadership course accepts mid and senior-level practitioners from across the United States.

For more information on Orange County’s economic development opportunities please contact the Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238 or at thinkorangeva.com. 

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – As a component of our “Enjoy Orange Campaign,” the Orange County Office of Economic Development encourages our community to shop local, by participating in the Orange County Enjoy Orange Passport Event. The event begins on Small Business Saturday, November 26th, and extends through December 16, 2022. The passport event encourages consumers to shop and dine at small businesses throughout Orange County (excludes franchises or national chains) for a chance to win one (1) of four (4) $25 gift card to an Orange County business of choice, or a variety of other prizes from local businesses. Winners will be announced on December 19, 2022.

Rose Deal, Economic Development and Tourism Director noted, “We want to encourage residents and visitors alike to “Enjoy Orange” buy shopping and dining local this holiday season. Our shops have personal, unique gifts for everyone on your shopping list. While you’re out and about, be sure to experience some of the best fare around at our local restaurants.”

To download your passport and for more information, please visit https://www.thinkorangeva.com/living-here/enjoy-orange, or contact Regan McKay at the Orange County Economic Development Office at (540) 672-1238 or rmckay@orangecountyva.gov.

Read More Here. 

ORANGE, VA – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce the creation of the Edna Lewis Menu Trail in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the release of The Edna Lewis Cookbook in 1972.

Edna Lewis was born on April 13,1916 in an area of Orange County called Freetown. Lewis authored three, groundbreaking cookbooks and is credited with bringing the culture and heritage of African American, Southern Cuisine to the world. She is often referred to as the Grande Dame of Southern Cooking and was the recipient of an honorary Ph.D. in Culinary Arts from Johnson & Wales University (1996) and the James Beard Living Legend Award (1999). The United States Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp in her honor in 2014.

The Orange County Edna Lewis Menu Trail is a collaborative effort commemorating Lewis and the 50th Anniversary of her first cookbook – The Edna Lewis Cookbook. It highlights seven (7) Orange County restaurants whose chefs will be creating their own versions of Lewis’s recipes for purchase on their menus from Thanksgiving 2022 to Memorial Day 2023. Assistant Director, Julie Perry says “This new Menu Trail is a way for visitors and locals alike to get a sense of Lewis’s legacy today. It’s a chance to see how local chefs reinterpret classic, Southern dishes - with access to many of the same ingredients and agriculture that inspired the great Edna Lewis. We can’t wait to taste their creations!”

Participating Restaurants are the BBQ Exchange, Champion Ice House, Clearwater Grill, Coopers Cookin and Catering, the Market at Grelen, Spoon and Spindle, and Vintage at the Inn at Willow Grove. 

Read More Here.

Orange County, VA – Orange County is pleased to announce that MPS, a division of Macmillan Publishers, will invest $26+ million over the next three years to expand its distribution operation in Orange County. Macmillan Publishers, based in New York, NY, is a global trade and higher education publishing company operating in over 70 countries, with imprints in the United States, Germany, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Africa, and India. Macmillan Publishers is a division of the Holtzbrinck Publishing Group, a large family-owned media company headquartered in Stuttgart, Germany. MPS first opened its’ doors in Orange County in 1997 and then expanded in 2000 to add their Returns Facility, located in the Thomas E. Lee Industrial Park. The Orange County distribution facility handles all distribution for the United States and Canada, and some international customers.

This expansion is anticipated to create 10 new jobs over the next three (3) years. The Economic Development Authority incentivized MPS to expand its operations in the County by offering a $250,000 real estate and machinery and tools performance tax grant, in exchange for their $26+ million investment. “This is wonderful news for Orange County. MPS has been a valued corporate citizen for the past 25 years and we are so excited that they have chosen to invest in the community once again,” noted Rose Deal, Economic Development Director.

“We could not be more appreciative of the Economic Development Authority’s generosity and support of our business efforts. This is an exciting opportunity for MPS to continue expanding our operations here in Orange County. We’ve enjoyed a strong relationship with this community and its leaders for the past 25 years and this project solidifies many more years of growth and partnership.” noted a representative from MPS.

For more information, please contact Rose Deal, at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – The Orange County Economic Development Office, in collaboration with the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC), is hosting two (2) FREE business development opportunities. A Starting Your Business Workshop and 1-on-1 counselingsessions will be offered on Wednesday, November 2, 2022.

The Starting Your Business workshop will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and is targeted towards those interested in learning best practices for starting a business, required registrations and regulations, and the components of sound business planning, including financial projections.

In addition to the workshop, free and confidential 1-on-1 business counseling sessions are available from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. for those seeking feedback and advice from an experienced business advisor. Counseling sessions are available by appointment only. Please call the CVSBDC at (434) 295-8198 to schedule your appointment for November 2, 2022.

These events are free to all local businesses. To reserve your seat at the workshop, register online at https://cvsbdc.org/event/starting-your-business-19/.

For more information, please contact Regan McKay, Economic Development & Tourism Assistant, at (540) 672-1238 or rmckay@orangecountyva.gov.

Read more here. 

ORANGE, VA – The Virginia Tourism Corporation (VTC) announced this week that travelers to Virginia spent $69 million a day in 2021, up from $48 million in 2020. Virginia’s tourism revenues also reached $25.2 billion in 2021, marking an 87% recovery to pre-pandemic spending in 2019. This spending supported 185,000 jobs, $7.1 billion in salaries and wages, and $1.8 billion in state and local taxes. 80 of Virginia’s 133 localities fully recovered to 2019 levels of spending and many grew even further.

“Tourism has seen an incredible comeback thanks to the hardworking leaders in the travel and tourism industry across Virginia,” said Rita McClenny, president and CEO of Virginia Tourism Corporation. “As travelers continue to visit communities across the state, Virginia is on pace to restore the tourism industry into the vibrant and highly performing economic engine it always has been. We look forward to an even stronger recovery in 2022.”

In Orange County, direct visitor spending in 2021 was up 34.1% over 2020 and has surpassed pre-pandemic levels from 2019.  Tourism Program Manager, Julie Perry said “We are excited to see such tangible evidence of Orange County’s tourism recovery and are grateful for the dynamic attractions, lodging, restaurants, retail and recreation businesses in our community who have labored to make this a reality.”   

Total Direct Visitor Spending in Orange County

2019 - $45.6 million

2020 - $37.6 million 

2021 - $50.5 million

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – Cooper’s Cookin and Catering will celebrate their one (1) year anniversary on Saturday, September 24, 2022, from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. at its restaurant location in Orange. The event will host a DJ and door prizes along with raffles and their famous southern cuisine and soul food.  

Cooper’s Cookin and Catering co-owners, Denise Thompson and her cousin Phillip Cooper, are direct descendants of several of the women from Gordonsville, VA tied to the “waiter carriers.” “Waiter Carriers” were local women who sold fried chicken and other food items at the railroad stop in the late 1800s and 1900s, prior to the time that dining cars existed. These women were able to gain financial independence through their entrepreneurial skills. Because of this, Gordonsville became known as the “Fried Chicken Capital of the World.”  Although the need for the services decreased as dining cars were added to rail cars and government regulations increased, their recipes lived on through Mildred Cooper, Gladys Cooper, Pauline Johnson and other relatives who continued to sell locally until the late 1900s.  

Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development noted, “We are thrilled to be able to celebrate this milestone with Cooper’s Cookin and Catering and are proud that they continue the legacy of the waiter carriers today.  It’s significant that residents and visitors alike can taste the authentic, original recipes of the entrepreneurial women who earned Gordonsville the title of “Fried Chicken Capital of the World.”  We wish Denise and Phillip many more years of continued business success!”

Denise is Mildred Cooper’s youngest daughter and uses the original family recipes at Cooper’s Cookin and Catering. “This is where my vision came from. … My aunts and my mom. I know that they are smiling down on us,” says Denise Thompson. In addition to Phillip and Denise, Michael Cooper (one of Mildred’s sons) the special family chicken cooker, adds his flair to the mix. He is the force behind many of the Gordonsville Fried Chicken Festival wins held by the Cooper family.

Cooper’s Cookin and Catering is located at 131 Byrd Street, Orange, VA.  They are open daily (except Wednesdays) for breakfast and catering, lunch.  For more information call 540-308-7199.   

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – Central Virginia Wine Tours & Transportation is celebrating their 10th anniversary. Locally owned and operated by Stephen and Jenny Sanford of Orange, Virginia, Central Virginia Wine Tours & Transportation was started in 2012, when Stephen realized there was a need for transportation services in the region. Beginning with a six passenger Cadillac Escalade for tours, the business soon evolved and the inquiries for transportation continued. Over time, Stephen expanded his fleet to another SUV and a Minibus and extended the service regions to include Charlottesville, Madison, and Culpeper. Today, Central Virginia Wine Tours & Transportation has a fleet of six (6) vehicles, ranging from an SUV to a 24-passenger shuttle bus.

From wineries, breweries, and cideries to wedding/event venues to chef and family-owned restaurants, supporting local establishments has been at the forefront of their services. Stephen Sanford, owner of Central Virginia Wine Tours &Transportation, noted, “What better way to help our local economy by providing a service for guests coming to visit this beautiful area!” 

“We are thankful for Stephen’s vision to bring a transportation business to Orange County.  This is a much-desired service for County residents and visitors alike and supports our growing wedding industry and tourism industry partners,” noted Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development.  You can get more information for any tours or group events by visiting their website at centralvirginiawinetours.com or send inquiries to centralvirginiawinetours@gmail.com.

Read more here. 

Orange County, VA – The Louisa County Chamber of Commerce, with the Orange County Economic Development and the Quad County Business Summit Planning Committee, are pleased to announce the October 12, 2022 Quad Summit at Shenandoah Crossings Resort featuring keynote speaker Dr. Kelli Palmer, Chief Diversity Office at WillowTree®.  WillowTree is a full-service digital product consultancy, with over 1,000 employees.  WillowTree began in 2008, with three individuals building mobile apps in Charlottesville, VA.  Today, WillowTree creates digital products for companies ranging from startups to Fortune 500.

Prior to WillowTree, Palmer was CFA Institute’s Head of Global Inclusion & Diversity and Corporate Citizenship. In this role, Palmer led the strategic direction of CFA’s internal initiatives to improve the organization’s ability to recruit, retain, and promote an inclusive, diverse, and culturally competent employee base.  Palmer focused on the organization's culture to ensure success and to maintain/attract a high-quality workforce. 

This half day summit will include a panel of local business owners showcasing Wesley Chiles, owner of Chiles Enterprises (Louisa, VA), André Xavier, owner - C'ville Travel, C'ville Tours, C'ville Transportation, and Casa X Publishing, co-owner -Virginia Hop on Tours, Patch Brewing Co. (Orange, VA), and C'ville 3D, and Katherine Morris, co-owner of Performance Signs & Wraps (Greene, VA). 

The Central Virginia Small Business Development Center will host the fourth annual QuadTank Pitch Competition during the summit. The winning individual or team will be awarded a $$$ cash prize ($5,000 or more) to support implementation of their business plan. At the end of the Quad Business Summit, the winner will be chosen by a panel of judges. For applicants that are starting new businesses, there will be an opportunity to be evaluated for a Market Validation Micro Grant up to $1,000 from Community Investment Collaborative.  Interested individuals or teams must schedule a meeting with a Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CV SBDC) before September 16th to apply.  Contact Client Services Coordinator, Mesa McMurtrey via email: contact@cvsbdc.org, or by calling 434-295-8198.

We would like to graciously thank all of our generous sponsors: Bluegreen Shenandoah Crossing Resort, WillowTree, First Citizens Bank, Dominion Energy, Community Bank of the Chesapeake,  Rappahannock Electric Cooperative, Seventh Wall, Community Investment Collaborative, Madison County Chamber of Commerce, Louisa Chamber of Commerce, Greene Chamber of Commerce, Orange Chamber of Commerce, Fluvanna Chamber of Commerce, Fluvanna Economic Development Authority,  Xpress Copy & Graphics, and Firefly Fiber Broadband. Sponsorship opportunities are still available and are listed on the Summit website.

The full 2022 Summit agenda and registration is now available and can be found on the Quad County Business Summit website at www.qcbsummit.com.

For more information regarding the event, please contact Tracy Hale Clark, Executive Director at (540) 967-0944.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – Due to field conditions at Booster Park, The ConnectOrange Community Showcase has been postponed. The ConnectOrange Community Showcase has been rescheduled for Friday, August 19, 2022, at Booster Park, located at 11177 Bloomsbury Road, Orange from 4:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. For more information please contact the Orange County Chamber of Commerce at (540) 672-5216 or orangevadirector@gmail.com.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – On Tuesday, September 20, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., the Orange County Economic Development Office and the Virginia Career Works Center in Orange County will host a Hiring Event. Jobseekers from the community are invited to speak to hiring managers with job openings in manufacturing, retail, food service, administration, healthcare, agriculture, logistics, distribution, and more. “There are lots of new opportunities for jobseekers in the area and we are excited to connect them with our local businesses. Whether you are looking for full or part-time employment, there is something for everyone,” noted Jenny Biche with the Virginia Career Works Center.

Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development for Orange County, noted, “We’re once again excited to team up with Virginia Career Works - Orange County Center to host a local employer hiring event. Several Orange County businesses who represent a variety of employment sectors will be present and are eager to welcome jobseekers. We encourage jobseekers to stop by to learn about and discuss the many career opportunities that exist here in Orange.” 

The event will be held at the Orange Train Depot, located at 122 East Main Street, Orange, VA 22960. All participants are encouraged to register for the event at  https://forms.office.com/r/yQ1FKpTAPG.

For more information regarding this event, please contact Jenny Biche at (540) 614-2604 or jenny.biche@fredgoodwill.org. Free resume writing assistance is also available through the Virginia Career Works Center, located at 127 Belleview Ave, Orange, VA 22960 or by calling (540) 661-3419. 

Read more here.

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is delighted to announce a new trail is now open within the Market at Grelen Trail System. The “Duncan Trail” adds 1.5 miles to Grelen’s existing five miles of trails. Additionally, the new, higher "Grelen Overlook" offers breathtaking panoramic views of Grelen Nursery and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

On Friday, July 15, 2022, we invite you to join us at the Market at Grelen for the Duncan Trail Opening Celebration, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Market at Grelen will host live music, a ribbon cutting ceremony, ice cream, and a limited menu. Visitors are invited to hike to the new “Grelen Overlook” as a part of the celebration.

Julie Perry, Tourism Program Manager noted, “Outdoor Recreation is a significant driver of visitation for Central Virginia. Virginia Tourism statistics show that 13% of visitors list Sports and Outdoors as the main purpose for their trip to Virginia. This new trail expands Orange County’s assets in this important sector, and we are thrilled to celebrate the Grand Opening of the Duncan Trail with team at Grelen”

To learn more about the new trail system please visit www.themarketatgrelen.com. 

For more information, please contact Julie Perry, Orange County Tourism Program Manager, at (540) 672-1653.

Read more here.

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Economic Development Office is pleased to announce the 2022 Quad County Business Summit & QuadTank Pitch Competition, hosted in partnership with the economic development offices of Fluvanna County, Greene County, Louisa County, Madison County, and the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center.

The Seventh Annual Quad County Business Summit will be held at Bluegreen Shenandoah Crossing Resort, located at 174 Horseshoe Circle, Gordonsville, VA 22942, on Wednesday, October 12, 2022, from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The Summit will include a keynote speaker, a local business owner panel discussion with a Q&A session, opportunities for networking, a luncheon, and the QuadTank: a winner-take-all pitch competition.

The event is free for businesses from the host counties. More information and registration will become available in the coming weeks. Sponsorship opportunities are listed on the Summit website: www.qcbsummit.com. For more information, please contact Rose Deal, Orange County Economic Development Director, at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – Last week, Orange County received a $25,000 grant award from the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industry Development (AFID) Fund Infrastructure Grant Program to assist Piedmont Processing, LLC. with a freezer expansion.

The Governor’s AFID Fund Infrastructure Grant Program supports strategic investments into missing infrastructure that is impeding small-scale farmers and food producers from growing their operations. This 2:1 matching grant will allow Piedmont Processing, LLC. to increase its cooler space by 40%.

“Orange County is pleased to be able to support its agricultural community. This grant not only supports Piedmont Processing’s operation but also the 75 to 100 local producers that rely on the facility to process their meat locally.” noted Orange County Administrator, Theodore L. Voorhees.

The Orange County Office of Economic Development worked to successfully secure the competitively awarded grant. A total of 11 projects across the Commonwealth were awarded funding. The Governor’s official press release is available at: https://www.governor.virginia.gov/newsroom/news-releases/2022/june/name-934635- en.html.

For more information, please contact the Orange County Office of Economic Development at (540) 672-1238.

Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism and the Orange County Chamber of Commerce have partnered to host the first- ever ConnectOrange Community Showcase. This family-friendly event is designed to help connect your business to the community.

The ConnectOrange Community Showcase is scheduled for Friday, August 12, 2022, at Booster Park, located at 11177 Bloomsbury Road, Orange. Both businesses and non- profits are invited to participate. Vendors can display and sell products, set up appointments, distribute literature to highlight services offered, and advertise current job openings. The deadline for vendor registration is Friday, July 29, 2022.

Sponsor opportunities are available. To ensure maximum publicity for your business, sponsorship requests must be received by Friday, July 15, 2022. Those interested in registering, and those with questions, should contact the Orange County Chamber of Commerce at (540) 672-5216 or orangevadirector@gmail.com.

Read more here.

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Economic Development Office, in collaboration with the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC), is hosting two (2) free business development opportunities on Wednesday, July 6, 2022.

The Business Plan 101 workshop is for businesses interested in learning how to create a successful business plan that will ensure profitability and efficiency in operations, as well as help set guidelines for operational success. The workshop will be held online, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

In addition to the business plan workshop, an experienced business advisor will be available online by appointment only to offer free and confidential, one-on-one business counseling sessions, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Counseling sessions are available by appointment only, please call the CVSBDC at (434) 295-8198 to schedule your appointment.

This event is free to all local businesses. To reserve a seat at the workshop, businesses can register online at https://bit.ly/3aIt1y9. For more information, please contact Regan McKay, Economic Development and Tourism Assistant at (540) 672-1238 or rmckay@orangecountyva.gov.

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ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to host the return of the Locally Made Market at the Montpelier Hunt Races. To support and encourage local entrepreneurship, the Office is offering the opportunity to compete for free inclusion in a shared vendor tent. Three (3) home-based businesses will be selected to market and sell their product(s) at the 2022 Montpelier Hunt Races.

“We are excited to bring back the Locally Made Market for the second year in a row.  Last year’s vendors were extremely pleased with the exposure that the Vendor Village provided them. By offering this opportunity for home-based businesses to connect with the many visitors who come to the Montpelier Hunt Races, we can continue our commitment to growing and supporting entrepreneurship in Orange County.” noted Rose Deal, Economic Development Director.

Entrants must be registered home-based businesses situated within Orange County, current on all business and/or personal property taxes. To be considered for one (1) of the three (3) vendor spaces, businesses should submit a brief presentation (in Word or PowerPoint format) about their business, along with a fully completed application no later than Friday, July 29, 2022.

For more information or assistance preparing your presentation, please contact the Economic Development Office at (540) 672-1238. Fully completed packets must be submitted via email to Rose Deal at rdeal@orangecountyva.gov, or via mail to P.O. Box 111, Orange, VA 22960. Full program guidelines and application can be found at https://www.thinkorangeva.com/support. Read more here. 

ORANGE COUNTY, Va. – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce the Corks and Caps marketing program and summer contest. Corks and Caps is a passport- style marketing initiative featuring our award-winning local wineries and breweries. All of Orange County’s seven (7) wineries and four (4) breweries are participating in the inaugural program this summer. They are excited to open their doors and pour another round for Orange County visitors.

The Corks and Caps Summer Contest invites guests to create their own beverage trail, collecting a stamp at each location. Completed passports can be mailed to the Office of Economic Development and Tourism to receive a free commemorative T-shirt. T-shirts are available while supplies last. Julie Perry, Tourism Program Manager, calls Corks and Caps, “a great opportunity for Orange County to highlight the strength and depth of its Tourism product. Orange County’s wineries and breweries really put Orange over-the-top as a destination of choice for Virginia visitors!” The Corks and Caps contest will run Memorial Day through Labor Day 2022.

Corks and Caps leverages interest in Virginia’s growing agriculture and viticulture to extend stays and increase visitation at these important, local attractions. “Orange County is home to a robust craft beverage scene as well as agriculture industry, and we want folks to come out and experience it. Whether you are a local or a tourist, I encourage you to get out and support these businesses,” said Rose Deal, Economic Development Director. Participating wineries and breweries are as follows.

Barboursville Vineyards

Chateau MerrillAnne Vineyard

Honah Lee Vineyard

Horton Vineyards

Reynard Florence Vineyard

Sweet Vines Farm Winery

Well Hung Tasting Room and Restaurant

Champion Ice House

Iron Pipe Alewerks

Patch Brewing Company

Unionville Brewing Company

For more information regarding Corks and Caps, please visit www.corksandcapsva.com, or contact the Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Orange County, VA – The Orange County Office of Economic Development is excited to announce the launch of the Enjoy Orange campaign. This shop local effort targets residents, building on Orange County’s previous high-quality campaigns encouraging non-residents to “Visit Orange” and businesses interested in opening, expanding, or relocating to “Think Orange.” 

The campaign highlights Orange County’s unique small business community and encourages residents to shop, dine, and enjoy Orange County. With a wealth of vibrant new businesses and blossoming Main Streets, residents need not travel to enjoy high-quality shopping, dining, and more.

“From our tasty BBQ to our award-winning wineries, Orange has something right here at home for everyone. Your local purchases support vital public services, create local jobs, and help attract new entrepreneurs and skilled workers. So, before you travel outside of Orange for your next cup of coffee, meal, or special gift, I encourage you to Enjoy Orange first,” stated Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development. “Spending dollars locally has a major impact on Orange County compared to residents spending outside of the county.”

The campaign will consist of the new Enjoy Orange logo and a series of videos featuring local businesses discussing the importance of Orange County residents' support. Follow the campaign on Facebook and Instagram at @thinkorangeva, or https://www.thinkorangeva.com/living-here/enjoy-orange.

For more information regarding the Enjoy Orange Campaign please contact the Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

ORANGE, VA – The Orange County Office of Economic Development and Tourism is pleased to announce plans for the 2022 Small Business Week, scheduled for May 1 - 7, 2022.

To promote Small Business Week, the Office will make marketing material available to businesses, including a poster to download and display, and a Facebook event header to help spread awareness. Additionally, the @thinkorangeva Facebook and Instagram pages will post regular updates about the importance of Orange County’s small businesses. Residents and business owners are encouraged to participate and interact on social media using the hashtags #enjoyorangeva and #OCsmallbusinessweek.

Interested parties are encouraged to review the digital directory at www.buyorangeva.com, which showcases businesses throughout the County. Using this tool, businesses can feature services offered, menu items, hours of operation, websites, social media links, promotions, photo galleries, and more. Visitors and residents can sign-up to receive notifications as new promotions appear.

“We invite everyone to join us in the celebration! Help us recognize and thank Orange County's many wonderful small businesses for their tremendous contributions to our economy. This year we are focused on keeping dollars in our community, and we are challenging you to keep it local and "Enjoy Orange" by shopping, dining, and supporting Orange County businesses,” said Rose Deal, Economic Development Director. 

Businesses looking to collaborate, or for more information on Small Business Week, please contact the Economic Development and Tourism Office at (540) 672-1238.

Orange County, VA – The Orange County Economic Development Office, in collaboration with the Central Virginia Small Business Development Center (CVSBDC) and Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) is hosting FREE business development opportunities. A hybrid workshop, Financing your Business, and one-on-one Counseling Sessions will be offered on Wednesday, May 4, 2022.

The Financing your Business workshop is available for businesses interested in learning from the experts about financing your small business. Presenters include members of the CV SBDC/CIC team as well as representatives from Truist Bank.The Financing your Business workshop will be held on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

An experienced business advisor is also offering FREE and confidential, virtual or in person one-on-one business counseling sessions on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, following the Financing your Business workshop. Counseling sessions are available by appointment only, please call the CVSBDC at (434) 295-8198 to schedule your appointment.

This event is FREE to all local businesses. To reserve your seat at the workshop and receive dial-in credentials, businesses can register online at https://bit.ly/3uedOfI.  

For more information, please contact Regan McKay, Economic Development and Tourism Assistant at (540) 672-1238 or rmckay@orangecountyva.gov.

This week, The Arts Center in Orange celebrates 25 years of providing access to the arts in Orange County and beyond. In 1997, a group of local artists and community members formed the organization and began offering classes and hosting small gallery shows in various buildings throughout Orange, Virginia.

In 2000, responding to an appeal from then-Mayor Ray Lonick, The Arts Center launched a project to create a mural masking the scrap yard greeting visitors to Orange as they approached from Route 20 South. The project included artists, school children, and construction provided by Town of Orange engineers and carpenters.

Local businessman and former Mayor Bob Morin offered a 10,000 sq. ft. building on Main Street as a workspace to complete the project. And, after witnessing the cooperative effort, Morin leased his building to The Arts Center for $1 per year and promised it as a posthumous gift - a promise his family kept, gifting the building in 2009. Since 2001, The Arts Center in Orange has expanded its programs, which now include the Morin Gallery, classes, public programs, the Virginia Artist and Artisan Gift Shop, and the Community Outreach Program.

In the spirit of their founding, The Arts Center will spend Summer 2022 working with community members and artists to create new murals for the public to enjoy. Three (3) artists will be selected through an open request for proposals, and submissions will be reviewed by a community panel. Once selected, artists will each be invited to spend up to a month in Orange, during which time they will meet with community members, get a feel for the area, refine their proposed design, and paint their mural with the assistance of volunteers and local youth.

The Arts Center in Orange is a nonprofit community arts center with a mission to increase the quality of life in our community by promoting an appreciation for fine contemporary arts. More information can be found on The Arts Center’s website: https://www.artscenterinorange.com or by contacting Anna Pillow, Executive Director, at (540) 672-7311.

Orange County Economic Development is pleased to announce Centercare Urgent Care will open on March 14, 2022. Centercare will be located at 4207 Germanna Highway, Locust Grove, VA 22508. The new practice will offer urgent care services to patients of all ages; and is equipped with on-site labs, EKG, and X-ray services. Centercare will be open Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m., and Saturday - Sunday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Pedsplus Pediatrics Primary Care, affiliated with Centercare Urgent Care, will share the facility. They will provide primary care services to patients up to 21 years of age.

Orange County Economic Development assisted Centercare & Pedsplus with identifying a location and provided additional business expansion assistance.

Rose Deal, Director of Economic Development for Orange County, noted, “We’re excited that Dr. Laurore has selected Orange County as home to his fourth Virginia clinic. This new medical facility will fill a need for Orange County citizens and is a welcome addition to the business community.”

For more information regarding Centercare and Pedsplus, please visit http://www.centercareva.com.