​InRoads Blog

In 2011, after working with a team of economic development professionals including the Alliance staff, Ace Hardware chose the City of Suffolk for their first East Coast Import Re-Distribution Center. The facility has been so successful that in 2017, they announced a 138,000 sq. ft. expansion. 

President & CEO Rick Weddle reflects on the regional employment market: Currently in a "recovery" business cycle, Hampton Roads' business cycle shows opportunity for significant growth.

Out-of-region student enrollment is up 9.2% in five years, despite total enrollment decreasing in the same timeframe. This uptick in enrollment means more money flowing into the local economy and provides the opportunity to capture more students for the regional workforce.