10/06/2026
The State of the Region is more than a look at the numbers, it’s an opportunity to better understand where Hampton Roads is today and what will shape our future.
Today, business and community leaders from across the region came together for the 2026 State of the Region, featuring research and analysis from Old Dominion University’s Dragas Center for Economic Analysis and Policy.
From our economy and defense spending to tourism, the Port, housing, early childhood education, arts and culture, and critical infrastructure, the program provided an important data-driven look at the opportunities across Hampton Roads.
Thank you to our speakers, Dr. Robert McNab, Dr. Barbara Blake, and Dr. Vinod Agarwal for providing the insight that helps our region’s leaders make informed decisions, identify opportunities and continue moving Hampton Roads forward.
And a special thank you to the sponsors and partners who made today’s important regional conversation possible:
Presenting Sponsor: Chartway Credit Union
Member Spotlight Sponsors: Norfolk State University and YMCA of South Hampton Roads
Gold Sponsors: HRSD, JPMorganChase, and Minus 9 to 5 at ODU
Health Literacy Partner: The Birdsong Health Literacy Center of Excellence
Supporting Sponsors: Dominion Energy, Portsmouth Economic Development, Virginia Arts Festival, Virginia Beach Convention Center and Virginia Natural Gas
Media Sponsor: Stellar Exposures
Finally, thank you to everyone who joined us as we continue working together to strengthen the economic vitality and future of Hampton Roads.