Do you need help with a challenging business situation and don’t know where to turn? 

While we may not have all the answers, we usually know someone who does! ETD serves as both a matchmaker and information broker by connecting local businesses with the contacts and resources they need to succeed.

• International trade questions? We can connect you with a business coach at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership.
• 504 financing confusion? The Small Business Development Center counselors have you covered.
• Need one-on-one business counseling? SCORE brings experienced mentors to the table for free.

Whatever your needs, our community likely holds a resource that can help. The ETD partners with and financially sponsors many of these support organizations to bring more opportunities to our business community.

Concerned about finding quality workers, both now and in the future? 

Nothing is more important to a region’s economic vitality than a highly skilled workforce. ETD partners with the York County School Division, Hampton Roads Workforce Council, the Virginia Employment Commission, Virginia Peninsula Community College, and other area organizations to identify the workforce needs of local employers, job seekers and youth. We then work to create programs that directly address those needs.

Our partner York County School Division is committed to ensuring all students graduate with the skills and knowledge to be successful and productive citizens in whichever career path they choose. The EngagedIN program connects interested parents, community members, and businesses with schools to share their career experiences or expertise with students.

The Hampton Roads Workforce Council collaborates with economic development entities, educational institutions, local governments and employers to devise innovative strategies to help develop workforce talent. This arrangement benefits businesses and helps establish/advance careers for people of all ages.

Job seekers and employers can also connect with resources through the Virginia Career Works Hampton Center or Williamsburg Center. These locations serve as the cornerstones of a systematic approach to the economic expansion of the Greater Peninsula. Area employers use the facilities of these centers for their training purposes and can contract with Virginia Peninsula Community College for customized training programs. Workers and potential employees can receive training that will sustain them at all levels of their professional and career development.

ETD is responsible for reviewing business-related codes and regulations and advocating for any changes needed to make them more business friendly. 

Our staff recommends changes in legislation that can improve the business environment for both new and existing companies. We work with other York County departments to identify challenges to the County’s licensing and permitting processes, and craft potential solutions.

If you or someone you know is embarking on a new commercial site or building development, we encourage you to reach out to us near the beginning of the project. Our staff is happy to serve as a liaison between the various county departments involved in the development process and you, your contractor or your developer, to ensure a smooth and seamless experience. Upon request, we can also help connect existing business owners with knowledgeable staff members in other county departments, such as traffic control, parks and recreation, sheriff, treasurer, public works and the commissioner of revenue.