The 2023 State of the Region discussed the robust performance of each of the region’s economic pillars. Produced by Old Dominion University’s Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy, the 24^th edition of the report explored how veterans contribute to the economy of the region, examined the future of public transportation in Hampton Roads, and asked how the region can fuel growth in 2024 and beyond.

During the 2023 State of the Region, the presenters shared the data on the current state of many aspects of the region’s economy. Key takeaways included that Hampton Roads has set new records when it comes to the expanding workforce and that several new industry sectors such as transportation, manufacturing and professional business services saw a great deal of growth.  Another highlight was that The Port of Virginia has continued to set new records with year over year increases in volume. When it comes to hotels, “Hampton Roads has done better than the nation and the Commonwealth,” reported Dr. Vinod Agarwal. In summary, the state of Hampton Roads is strong. The workforce has grown and new industry sectors have emerged. Our economy in the region continues to thrive and there is much to celebrate about the state of Hampton Roads.

Attendees received a copy of the 2023 State of the Region report at this year’s event which is divided into seven parts:

1. Growth Returns, Now Make It Last
2. The Pillars of the Hampton Roads Economy Remain Strong
3. The Fourth Pillar: Veterans in Hampton Roads
4. Get on the Bus: Public Transportation in Hampton Roads
5. Death and Dying in Hampton Roads: What is the state of end-of-life care in Hampton Roads?
6. Should Taxpayers Subsidize Private Facilities in Hampton Roads? Glitz vs Reality
7. The Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art: Challenges, Opportunities, and Economic Impact

The State of the Region was presented by: 

• Robert McNab, Professor of Economics and Director of the Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy, Old Dominion University
• Vinod Agarwal, Professor of Economics and Deputy Director of the Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy, Old Dominion University
• Barbara Blake, Executive Director, Monarch Internship and Co-Op Office, Old Dominion University

State of the Region Sponsors Included:

Presenting Sponsor: Chartway

Member Spotlight Sponsor: ADP

Silver Sponsors: Dominion Energy, Old Point National Bank, Virginia Natural Gas

Bronze Sponsors: Aviation Institute of Maintenance, Centura College, Tidewater Tech, EVMS, Norfolk International Airport, Norfolk State University, Virginia Beach Convention Center

Media Sponsor: Stellar Exposures

Visit the Hampton Roads Chamber to see other upcoming events and find more event recaps in Chamber News.