A common framework for economic growth — built with City leadership, community voices, and private-sector partners to shape what's next for Alexandria.
A Collective Future for Alexandria.
Alexandria's success is built on partnership. Together, AEDP, City leadership, businesses, community stakeholders, and residents are united in efforts to create a flourishing, inclusive economy where businesses can grow and succeed.
Through ALX Forward, Alexandria has established a collaborative framework for economic growth that aligns public and private sector efforts around the City's greatest opportunities.
Guided by this common purpose, Alexandria is focused on:
Advancing transformative investments that enhance places, create opportunities, and strengthen the city's unique character.
Supporting business growth and competitiveness by attracting in-demand industries while helping existing companies grow and expand.
Cultivating entrepreneurship and innovation through stronger networks, resources, and access to capital.
Whether you're launching a startup, expanding your operations, or considering Alexandria for your next investment, AEDP and the City are committed to your success. We believe that when businesses succeed, Alexandria thrives — and together, we're building a stronger future for both.
Industries That Flourish Here.
Five focus industries benefit from Alexandria's proximity to the federal government, a highly educated workforce, and a connected, livable environment. Click any industry to explore.
01 — Focus Industry Cybersecurity & Defense With the Pentagon and key federal agencies at our doorstep, Alexandria draws top-tier cybersecurity and defense talent. expand_more
With the Pentagon and key federal agencies at our doorstep, the City draws top-tier cybersecurity and defense talent from across the region.
— client artwork to be placed —
- Washington, D.C.
- The Pentagon
- U.S. Dept. of War
- Quantico
- U.S. Naval Surface Warfare Center
- Joint Base Andrews
- Fort Meade
- Fort Belvoir
- National Maritime Center
- DARPA
- DoD Mark Center
AEDP connects defense and cybersecurity firms to site-selection support, security-cleared talent pipelines, and introductions across the region's federal and defense network. Final resource copy from Maria.
The local workforce is steeped in technical expertise, including many veterans transitioning into cybersecurity careers. Businesses in this sector gain seamless access to government contracts, a vast defense network, and a collaborative environment for innovation.
Northern Virginia is home to the largest cybersecurity cluster in the U.S., with 500 cybersecurity companies in the region.
Case study to come — a defense or cybersecurity company that chose Alexandria. Copy and metrics to be provided by Maria.
National Innovation Quarter
Virginia Tech — latest news / blog article
02 — Focus Industry Emerging & Advanced Technology AI, data, and advanced computing — anchored by the Virginia Tech Institute for Advanced Computing. expand_more
Anchored by the Virginia Tech Institute for Advanced Computing and a deep federal-technology ecosystem, Alexandria is positioned for growth in AI, data, and advanced computing.
Full build-out follows the Cybersecurity & Defense model: Why → Map (proximity to key assets) → AEDP resources → Workforce (+ stat callouts) → Regional companies → Case study → News / Highlights → Stats. Final copy being written by Maria.
03 — Focus Industry Professional Services A premier capital-region address for professional services firms and corporate headquarters. expand_more
Alexandria's proximity to the nation's capital, an exceptional quality of life, and an educated workforce make it a prime address for professional services firms and corporate headquarters in the capital region.
Full build-out follows the Cybersecurity & Defense model: Why → Map (proximity to key assets) → AEDP resources → Workforce (+ stat callouts) → Regional companies → Case study → News / Highlights → Stats. Final copy being written by Maria.
04 — Focus Industry Entertainment & Tourism A Top-3 small city on the waterfront — 200+ independent restaurants and boutiques, visitors year-round. expand_more
A Top-3 small city with big cosmopolitan vibes. On the waterfront with views of Washington, D.C., Alexandria is historic — with 200+ independent restaurants and boutiques — and draws visitors year-round.
Visit Alexandria is targeting 200 frontline employees through a hospitality training program by the end of FY28.
Jennifer Martin to add local-consumer stats (median HHI ~$119,681, median age 37) and retail / service / hospitality workforce availability.
Torpedo Factory Art Center draws roughly 500,000 visitors a year. The Art League Gallery, founded in 1954, is a 501(c)(3) serving the regional arts community.
05 — Focus Industry Nonprofits & Associations Hundreds of nonprofits and associations, steps from Congress and federal agencies. expand_more
Alexandria is home to hundreds of nonprofits and trade associations that benefit from proximity to Congress, federal agencies, and a robust professional network. The city offers the access and resources organizations need to advance their missions.
Full build-out follows the Cybersecurity & Defense model: Why → Map (proximity to key assets) → AEDP resources → Workforce (+ stat callouts) → Regional companies → Case study → News / Highlights → Stats. Final copy being written by Maria.
Click and explore.
Explore the unique character, vibrant communities, and diverse cultures that make Alexandria's neighborhoods so distinctive.