Hitting the Block

Among the priority projects, initiatives, and goals, which I, identified leading into this role just a few short weeks ago was scaling effective Business Retention & Expansion (BRE) program.  An effective business outreach does not just benefit individual businesses and business owners; it helps to create a connected and thriving business community that attracts visitors and encourages business investment.

By prioritizing business outreach, the Economic Development office can help create and foster an inclusive and supportive business environment where local businesses can flourish.

Business Retention & Expansion is not just a business development strategy; it is a vital component of comprehensive community development. By engaging with the local businesses through a structured business outreach program these touchpoints keep businesses informed about community events, sharing and connects them to business resources, and fostering professional connections, we can create a thriving City-wide local business economy that benefits everyone.

Over the next few weeks as a/the comprehensive city-wide business outreach program is developed and launched the Department of Economic Development and Tourism working with Fredericksburg Main Street will starting in October through December begin Downtown Block Attack.   A pilot initiative, “Block Attack”, aims to connect directly in-person with Downtown Fredericksburg businesses with the goal to create;

• Collaboration Opportunities: Encouraging businesses to collaborate on the growth and enhancement of Downtown’s special events and/or promotions.
• Feedback Loop: Establishing a system for businesses to share their business challenges and successes therefore ensuring outreach efforts remain relevant and effective.
• Economic Growth Opportunities: Connecting business owners with the business resources needed to grow, sustain, and adapt their business to economic or consumer driven market changes.

Looking forward to “Hitting the Block” further connecting and building relationships with our Downtown business community on October 7 & 15 and November 4 & 12.

Contact Josh at 540.372.1216, Ext. 7208 or by e-mail.