Defense, Data and Deep Water Drive Economic Growth in Hampton Roads

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The U.S. military’s presence is a big part of the story in the Hampton Roads region of Virginia – but far from the whole story.

Hampton Roads is home to the world’s largest naval installation – Naval Station Norfolk, which covers more than 4,300 acres. Every branch of the U.S. military is represented in Hampton Roads, as is NATO. Jolie Spiers, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center (SBDC), says the area’s military presence is a rising tide lifting businesses of all types.

“Hampton Roads offers a unique mix of assets which creates a very pro-business environment,” Spiers says. “At the SBDC, we’re focused on helping local entrepreneurs tap into opportunities ranging from assisting small businesses explore overseas markets to exporting through The Port of Virginia and supporting our tourism-based businesses to maximize the region’s amazing attractions. Our entrepreneurs know there’s an ecosystem of expertise and assistance in Hampton Roads to help them launch, start and thrive.”

Here’s just a bit of what Hampton Roads brings to the table in its ongoing effort to be a place in which businesses succeed:

World-Class Logistics

Bryan K. Stephens, President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Chamber, says logistics matter, and The Port of Virginia is central to the region’s logistics industry.

“Logistics – especially maritime logistics – is a cornerstone of our economy, national security and global connectivity,” he says. “The Port of Virginia is one of the most advanced and efficient ports on the East Coast. It supports tens of thousands of jobs, driving trade and investment, and serves as a critical gateway for U.S. exports and imports.”

Stephens says that between its deep-water channels, modern terminals, and strong rail and highway connections, The Port of Virginia – the ninth-busiest U.S. port in 2025 – makes Hampton Roads a premier logistics hub and a key engine of economic growth for the commonwealth and the nation.

Global Connectivity

Hampton Roads is a vital communications junction, given that it hosts multiple high-capacity transatlantic subsea cables. The cables land in Virginia Beach, Stephens says, and boost global connectivity by attracting digital, data center and tech infrastructure investments.

“The cables enhance internet speed and reliability for businesses and consumers and position the region as a strategic gateway for international communications,” Stephens says. “This connectivity will support cybersecurity, cloud services and innovation ecosystems, helping diversify the local economy and strengthen ties with global markets.”

Diverse Economy

Stephens notes that The Port of Virginia (maritime, logistics) and a defense/cybersecurity cluster anchored by no fewer than 18 military installations and numerous tech firms might be the stars of the Hampton Roads economy, but the supporting cast is solid. Health care and life sciences provide critical services and employment through major hospitals and research institutions, while advanced manufacturing, education and tourism further broaden the region’s economic base.

“Those assets help Hampton Roads remain resilient to market shifts and attractive for future investment,” he says.

U.S. Navy photo by Justice Vannatta

Workforce Hub

Hampton Roads supports a labor force of more than 840,000 people, and that workforce covers a wide range of skills.

“The region’s strong military presence, major employers and network of colleges, universities and training institutions create a steady pipeline of talent and technical expertise,” Stephens says. “But to sustain long-term growth and competitiveness, it is critical that Hampton Roads train, retain and
attract more talent so employers can meet workforce demand, innovation can accelerate and the region remains attractive to new investment and emerging industries.”

Collaborative Spirit

As chambers of commerce go, Hampton Roads is in the major leagues. Stephens is a former Virginia Chamber Executive of the Year, and the Hampton Roads Chamber has earned a Five-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce – a distinction earned by just 1% of the nation’s more than 7,200 chambers. Spiers, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads SBDC, says her organization’s partnership with the Hampton Roads Chamber is the only one of its kind in Virginia.

“It demonstrates our business community’s leadership in supporting all levels of success,” Spiers says. “Both organizations help set the conditions for business success in Hampton Roads and provide resources for businesses to build solid foundations and focus on growth and expansion.”