We were just as excited this week to get the news as we were in 2007—the first time CNBC labeled Virginia with its Top State for Business title. Anytime an independent, third-party source validates your message, it’s better than you saying it about yourself. It’s especially rewarding when it comes from a credible, well-respected source like CNBC.
So what difference does it make, really? Being tagged “the best” or “No. 1” brings awareness to executive decision makers and differentiates the Old Dominion from other states—especially on the global stage. Economic development is a highly competitive process and accolades like CNBC’s Top State for Business, Forbes.com’s Best State for Business and Pollina Corporate Real Estate’s No. 1 pro-business ranking (you like how we worked those in there, right?) set us apart from our competitors. The fact that multiple sources keep reaffirming Virginia’s business friendliness, great tax and regulatory climate, and strong education system make the findings even more significant.
No. 1 rankings also make for great marketing material. You better believe we take advantage of Virginia’s leadership standing every chance we get. It’s front-and-center on all of our marketing materials. It is weaved into every talking point we’ve written. And if we had the marketing budget, it would be on every ink pen, coffee mug and office trinket we could get it printed on.
Why not? After all, it’s true. But don’t take a ranking’s word for it. Go straight to the source at YesVirginia.org or call us at (804) 545-5600