Show Notes

In this episode of Develop This!, host Dennis Fraise sits down with Jason El Koubi, President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), to explore how Virginia has earned — and maintained — its reputation as one of the best states for business.

Jason shares how Virginia's nonpartisan approach to economic development ensures continuity, focus, and accountability. He dives deep into the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a national model for workforce training that has helped attract global leaders like AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly.

From site readiness to speed-to-market, Virginia's economic playbook emphasizes agility, collaboration, and long-term talent development. Jason also discusses how the state is positioning itself for the industries of the future — including pharmaceutical manufacturing and artificial intelligence — all while doubling down on its goal to be America's Top State for Talent.

If you're passionate about strategic, results-driven economic development, this episode offers a rare look inside a state model that works — and what other regions can learn from it.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Virginia's nonpartisan structure provides stability and continuity across administrations.
• VEDP's collaborative model drives accountability and innovation.
• Talent development and site readiness are the state's top priorities.
• The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program has become a major recruitment tool.
• Speed and efficiency set Virginia apart in the competitive site selection process.
• Virginia continues to attract global investments from industry leaders such as AstraZeneca and Eli Lilly.
• The state is future-focused, targeting emerging sectors like pharma and AI.
• Virginia's goal: to be America's top state for talent — not just business.