AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES (AFDS)

We know that existing businesses are the most important source of new jobs and investment in Virginia’s most important industry, agriculture.  Therefore, assisting these businesses is a top priority of AFDS.  

Depending on the specific needs of the business, AFDS staff will:

• Use their extensive contacts with agriculture and forestry producers and organizations to help businesses assess supply, demand and production potential of various commodities and other products
• Assist in making contacts and resolving issues with other state and Federal agencies
• Serve as ombudsmen to the localities where the business development is planned
• Aid site selection by providing industry specific information on infrastructure, workforce, environmental regulations and other critical issues
• Provide information and introductions to public and private sector financing resources
• Link businesses with appropriate individuals and programs in the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, such as Food Safety and Inspections or Marketing
• Work closely with our partners at the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and other agencies to ensure they are also engaged on projects receiving AFDS assistance
• Assist with grand opening/ribbon cutting event planning, including invitation design and mailing, program development and printing, involving appropriate government officials, and coordinating media coverage