Stafford, VA — September 17, 2025 — The Stafford County Department of Economic Development has been recognized with a 2025 Achievement Award from the Virginia Association of Counties (VACo) for its groundbreaking Business Events Initiative, a program designed to strengthen and empower local small businesses.
The award honors Stafford’s innovative approach to economic development through a quarterly business events series that provides entrepreneurs with practical tools, knowledge, and connections to grow their businesses. Rooted in extensive business climate survey data and built through strong partnerships, the initiative offers free workshops focused on core areas of business success, including government procurement, funding, networking, and marketing.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Stafford County’s economy, and this award affirms our dedication to ensuring they have every opportunity to succeed,” said Chairman Deuntay Diggs of the Stafford County Board of Supervisors. “The Business Events Initiative is a shining example of how local governments can be responsive, innovative, and collaborative in creating real solutions for our entrepreneurs. We are proud of our Economic Development team for leading the way in Virginia.”
Since its launch, the program has engaged more than 200 business owners and entrepreneurs, equipping them with actionable insights, fostering collaboration and enhancing Stafford County’s reputation as a community that listens to and invests in its businesses.
“This recognition reflects Stafford County’s commitment to listening first, then acting boldly on behalf of our business community,” said Liz Barber, Stafford County Economic Development Director. “By asking businesses directly what they need, and building events around those needs, we’ve been able to break down barriers and deliver meaningful results that support long-term growth. This award is a testament to the partnerships and dedication that make Stafford an ideal place to start and grow a business.”
The Business Events Initiative has been praised for its replicable, data-driven model and its unique collaborations with county departments, the University of Mary Washington’s Center for Business Research, private-sector leaders, and state agencies. The program demonstrates how counties can deliver maximum impact with modest resources by aligning government, academia, and business expertise.
The VACo Achievement Awards recognize counties that demonstrate model programs to improve governance and services for residents. Stafford’s recognition highlights its leadership in developing a scalable, community-informed program that not only strengthens local businesses but also serves as a model for other Virginia counties.
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About Stafford County Department of Economic Development | Stafford EDA
The Stafford County Department of Economic Development is the sales and customer service arm for Stafford County, Virginia, committed to advancing expansion and investment for the community. As the official economic development organization of Stafford County, our mission is to promote, solicit and encourage business growth through marketing and media services that enhance economic activity and quality of life within the Stafford region. Stafford County is located halfway between Washington, DC and Richmond, VA. In partnership with the Stafford Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Stafford County Department of Economic Development and the EDA has helped finance and support business growth in Stafford since the EDA’s inception in 1970. In addition to business loan programs, in recent years, the EDA has helped develop a number of vacant and underused properties in Stafford and helped launch the Virginia Smart Community Testbed. For more information on Stafford’s Economic Development and the Stafford EDA, visit www.GoStaffordVA.com and www.StaffordEDA.com, and follow on Facebook, LinkedIn or get connected through the monthly business newsletter.