Manufacturers across Virginia may be eligible for state and federal programs that help offset the cost of hiring, training, expansion, facility improvements, and technology investment. Below is a high-level overview of several programs that support business growth, workforce development, and capital investment.
Each program has its own eligibility requirements, application timelines, and funding levels.
InternshipsVA
Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP)
Supports manufacturers by providing matching funds to offset wages for college interns placed in technical and professional roles.
Best suited for:
- Companies needing additional engineering, IT, quality, or manufacturing support
- Organizations looking to build a future workforce pipeline
What it supports:
- Paid internships for students in technical fields
- Workforce development and early talent engagement
Funding:
Provides a wage match for interns, typically supporting a portion of internship compensation.
Defense Production Act (DPA) Title III
U.S. Department of Defense
Supports expansion of domestic production capacity for companies involved in defense and national security supply chains.
Best suited for:
- Defense, aerospace, maritime, and advanced manufacturing suppliers
- Companies looking to expand production capability or capacity
What it supports:
- Facility expansion or upgrades
- Equipment and production line investments
- Manufacturing modernization tied to defense needs
Funding:
Large-scale awards depending on project scope and national priority.
CHIPS Incentives Program
Semiconductor Materials & Manufacturing Equipment (SMME)
Encourages growth of the domestic semiconductor supply chain through facility investment and manufacturing expansion.
Best suited for:
- Manufacturers supplying the semiconductor industry
- Companies involved in materials, components, tooling, or production equipment
What it supports:
- Construction and expansion of manufacturing facilities
- Equipment and process investments
Funding:
Significant capital investment support depending on project size and alignment.
VEDP Workforce Services & Talent Programs
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Helps companies recruit, screen, and train new employees to support business growth.
Best suited for:
- Companies that are hiring or expanding
- Organizations building workforce capacity
What it supports:
- Recruiting and screening services
- Training and onboarding support
- Workforce development initiatives
Funding:
Varies based on hiring volume and program participation.
Virginia Community College Workforce Funding
FastForward, WIOA, and Related Programs
Provides funding assistance for skills training, certifications, and workforce development through Virginia’s community college system and workforce partners.
Best suited for:
- Companies investing in employee training and upskilling
- Manufacturers introducing new technologies or processes
What it supports:
- Technical training programs
- Certifications and credentialing
- Workforce skill development
Funding:
Varies by program, number of trainees, and training type.
Rural Business Development Grants (Currently Closed)
USDA Rural Development
Supports economic growth, business development, and job creation in rural communities.
Best suited for:
- Manufacturers located in rural areas
- Communities working to strengthen local industry
What it supports:
- Business development initiatives
- Technical assistance and training
- Community-based economic projects
Funding:
Varies based on project type and eligibility.
Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP)
Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Supports job creation and business expansion by offsetting recruiting and training costs.
Best suited for:
- Companies adding new jobs
- Manufacturers expanding operations
What it supports:
- Workforce recruitment
- Employee training
- Onboarding and ramp-up costs
Funding:
Varies based on number of new jobs and training needs.
GENEDGE does not administer these programs or control funding decisions. However, we can help manufacturers understand which opportunities may be a fit and support the preparation of strong, well-structured applications. This can include clarifying project scope, aligning proposed investments with program objectives, and helping organize the technical and business information typically required during the application process.