Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable

GO Virginia Region 5 Grant Expands “Economic Access Initiative” from Neighborhood

Norfolk, Virginia — Funding supports career pathways in shipbuilding, cybersecurity, data analytics, and more to create higher-paying jobs in Region 5.

The Economic Access Initiative (EAI), led by Neighborhood, a nonprofit organization connecting individuals with the skills, services, and support needed to transition from low-wage jobs to skilled careers, has been awarded a $305,000 GO Virginia grant to expand its impact across Region 5.

Funding will support the expansion of workforce development projects aligned with Region 5’s Economic Growth and Diversification Plan, building on a previous GO VA Planning Grant. These initiatives will create pathways to high-demand careers in shipbuilding, cybersecurity, data analytics, logistics, and warehousing.
“This initiative helps open doors to opportunity for workers while supporting the long-term competitiveness of key industries,” said Josh Jones, Board Chair of Neighborhood. “What makes Neighborhood unique is that we challenge the status quo of workforce development. We’re not just preparing people for jobs—we’re working to reshape what opportunity looks like in our region.”

The EAI will scale its efforts to connect more jobseekers to training, industry-recognized credentials, and career services—helping employers address talent needs while promoting economic mobility across the region.

About Neighborhood
Neighborhood is a nonprofit organization focused on building stronger communities by connecting residents to opportunities for personal and professional growth. Through workforce development, education, and supportive services, Neighborhood helps individuals advance from low-wage employment into sustainable, skilled careers.

About GO Virginia
Growth and Opportunity (GO) Virginia is a statewide initiative that supports regional collaboration among business, education, and government to foster private-sector growth and create higher-paying jobs. GO Virginia Region 5 is comprised of 16 cities and counties located in Hampton Roads and Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

About Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable
The Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable’s mission is to improve the trajectory of the region’s economic growth and competitiveness, incorporate innovation and entrepreneurship into the economic base, and provide strategic leadership through collaboration for the region’s economic future. The Roundtable also serves as the support organization for Region 5 of Virginia’s innovative GO (Growth & Opportunity) Virginia program. Visit our website here.

Earlier this week, Governor Youngkin announced $2.5 million for GO Virginia projects, including two planning grants here in Region 5: the Workforce Development Plan for Western Tidewater Mechatronics Program and the UAS BVLOS Key Site Initiative.

Read the press release here:

Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces Over $2.5 Million in Growth and Opportunity Virginia Grants Governor Glenn Youngkin, 74th Governor of Virginia

The Virginia Beach – Norfolk – Newport News area ranks 1st among large U.S. metropolitan areas for its share of adult military veterans. Discover more about our region by visiting our website here: https://ecs.page.link/8Woia