Prince William County’s Department of Economic Development announced a year of record achievement in 2020 with the completion of 40 projects, expected to add $2.4 billion in capital investment and 1,531 new jobs to the county.
With 29 new business attractions, eight expansions of existing businesses, and three business retentions, 99% of the new jobs will be in a range of industry sectors targeted by the county, including life sciences and biotechnology, IT, data centers, advanced manufacturing, federal contracting and distribution.
In rapid response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the department shifted focus to economic stabilization and recovery while simultaneously executing its planned work program.
The county established a multipronged framework of grant and incentive programs to provide much-needed relief to its business community, particularly its small businesses and displaced workers. The Prince William Board of County Supervisors appropriated $16 million of CARES Act and economic development funds to establish the following programs:
- Capital Investment and Innovation Grant – provided funding up to $200,000 per business for 127 businesses that needed to make physical improvements to adhere to health and safety guidelines to operate safely or to make capital investments in innovative business models.
- Small Business Relief Micro-Grant – provided grant assistance totaling $4.7 million to 640 businesses that experienced a loss in revenues. Grants up to $50,000 were provided to qualified businesses.
- ELEVATE – provided no-cost employment assistance to 188 residents and 59 businesses in collaboration with Virginia Career Works.
- Construction and Renovation Permit Rebate – provided 13 businesses with assistance to begin new construction projects by offering rebates of up to $2,000 for permitting fees.
- Small Business Technical Assistance – provided business counseling to 57 small businesses that needed one-on-one technical assistance. Additionally, the county partnered with the Mason Small Business
- Development Center to provide enhanced technical services up to $10,000 per business in digital marketing and e-commerce, financial planning, and IT services, to ensure business viability.
IGNITE Grant – provided grants up to $50,000 for businesses and entrepreneurs who have a start-up idea or new business. - FireUp Business Mentoring and Coaching – supported eligible small businesses by pairing them up with coaches and giving them one-on-one access to expertise in business strategy, marketing, and finance.
- Be Safe, Work Safe – provided a webinar series for businesses to provide them with guidelines based on best practices for maintaining a safe and healthy workplace and keeping their business open.
“We are forever grateful for the assistance and guidance we received from Prince William County during this time of crisis,” said Cathy Madigan, co-owner of Madigan’s Waterfront. “Not only were we able to receive much-needed funding to continue operations and keep our employees, but the support and counseling we received from the Department of Economic Development made all the difference and has further reinforced why chose to locate in Prince William County.”
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Traffic disruptions and lane reductions are set to begin on northbound I-495 (Capital Beltway Inner Loop) near Tysons, Virginia, as part of the 495 NEXT project’s Big Beam Weekend. The impacts will start tonight, Friday, January 24, at 9 p.m., and continue through 5 a.m. Monday, January 27. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and plan alternate routes, as significant delays and backups are anticipated.
Discover the hidden gems and rich history of Downtown Manassas on the thrilling Manassas Scavenger Hunt! This exciting walking tour will take you on a journey through the charming streets of Manassas, unlocking the secrets of its iconic landmarks and beloved attractions. From the historic Veterans Memorial to the majestic Water Tower and the Opera House, each location offers a glimpse into the city’s fascinating past.
Join the adventure and solve clues, unravel mysteries, and dive into the captivating stories that make Manassas unique. It’s a perfect outing for friends, families, or anyone looking for a fun and engaging way to explore this vibrant city.
Ready to embark on this unforgettable journey? Visit Manassas Scavenger Hunt for tickets and details.
With contraception rights under scrutiny nationwide, Virginia Democrats are doubling down on efforts to safeguard access, even as they brace for potential pushback from Gov. Glenn Youngkin, the Virginia Mercury reports.
House Bill 1716, introduced by Del. Cia Price, D-Newport News, passed the House of Delegates on Thursday, while a companion bill from Sen. Ghazala Hashmi, D-Chesterfield, cleared the Senate Education and Health Committee.
Last year, similar bills passed both chambers with bipartisan support but were ultimately vetoed by Youngkin.
The Manassas City Council began its three-day retreat on Thursday at James Madison’s historic Montpelier, located over 80 miles south of the city. The event quickly raised concerns about public access after members of the public who traveled to attend the meeting discovered the venue was locked and inaccessible.
Virginia law mandates that government meetings remain open to the public unless they are specifically classified as legal closed-door sessions. According to Virginia’s open meetings laws, the Council’s work session and retreat did not qualify as a closed-door meeting, raising questions about compliance.
Former Councilwoman Lynn Forkell Green attended the event and confirmed the gate to the complex was locked. “I couldn’t get in. Had I not had the cell numbers of council members, I would not have gained access because the meeting space was more than a mile past the gate, and the complex was closed,” Forkell Green said. While she was able to contact a council member who provided the entry code, she noted that most members of the public would not have such relationships or access.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
