Ecosystem Formation

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…and a strategy to position Virginia as one of the most competitive business destinations in the world.

In this episode, Ken sits down with Jason El Koubi, President & CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), to talk about how the Commonwealth attracts global companies, invests in talent, and builds thriving communities in every region.

Filmed live at the Virginia Consultants Forum, the conversation explores Virginia’s winning formula—balancing people, power, and place—to meet the needs of today’s industries while anticipating the opportunities of tomorrow. From Amazon HQ2 to the rise of advanced manufacturing, Jason shares the behind-the-scenes decisions, partnerships, and forward-thinking investments that keep Virginia ahead of the curve.

He reveals how the Commonwealth’s unique, nonpartisan economic development model fosters long-term strategy, how VEDP works with state and local partners to remove barriers for expanding businesses, and why Virginia’s diverse energy mix and site readiness make it a magnet for innovation.

At its core, this conversation is about more than business attraction—it’s about creating ecosystems where companies and communities can thrive together.

Key Takeaways from the Conversation:

Why Amazon Chose Virginia
It wasn’t the biggest check—it was a bold, statewide investment in tech talent that doubled computer science degree production and benefited every region.

The Power of Site Readiness
From utilities and transportation to permitting and zoning, being truly “project ready” is the difference between winning and losing in site selection.

Advanced Manufacturing Momentum
Virginia is leaning into growth sectors like advanced materials, pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, and niche industries like quantum computing and commercial space.

Energy as a Competitive Advantage
With the world’s largest concentration of data centers, a diverse energy mix, and expertise in scaling secure power, Virginia is prepared for the demands of modern industry.

A Model Built for Long-Term Success
VEDP’s nonpartisan structure allows for strategic continuity, deep partnerships, and the ability to pivot quickly in a changing global economy.

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Why This Conversation Matters:

In a competitive national and global market, Virginia’s approach proves that talent, infrastructure, and collaboration are the real incentives. Jason’s insights offer a blueprint for how states and communities can align strategy, partnerships, and resources to deliver long-term prosperity.

“One of the hallmarks of VEDP strategy is we want the Commonwealth overall to thrive, but we want to achieve progress in the Commonwealth where every part of Virginia participates in that progress.” — Jason El Koubi

Whether you’re in economic development, corporate strategy, or just curious about how major projects transform communities, this episode offers a front-row seat to how Virginia wins—and keeps winning.