Norfolk Department of Development

06/04/2026

It's a great day in Norfolk as Mare Custos launches its first U.S. presence in our Downtown Norfolk Innovation Corridor at the Hampton Roads Alliance IDEA Lab! Their expansion highlights the power of regional collaboration and the growing momentum of the City of Norfolk as a destination for international companies shaping the future of ocean technology and defense innovation.

“Mare Custos’ advanced underwater robotics are a great fit for Norfolk’s world class maritime assets that include: the world’s largest Navy Base, bustling harbor and emerging offshore wind farm,” said Sean M. Washington, Director of the Department of Economic Development in the City of Norfolk. “Their technology strengthens the city’s blue water economy by delivering safer offshore inspection, advanced environmental monitoring, and next generation marine innovation.”

Thank you to the Hampton Roads Alliance for your continued partnership and the work you do to drive growth across our region. Welcome to Norfolk, Mare Custos!

Read the full announcement here:

NORFOLK, VA – June 4, 2026 – Mare Custos, an international maritime robotics and subsea intelligence company specializing in AI-enabled underwater inspection technologies, today announced the establishment of operations within […]

05/29/2026

Looking for a job in Norfolk? Talent Connect Thursdays at NORFOLKWORKS offers a chance to meet local employers hiring right now! Next Thursday, June 4, HMS Host will be interviewing for positions at the Norfolk International Airport; from baristas and servers, to cooks and utility staff.

Sign up for an interview time slot at TalentConnectJuneORF.eventbrite.com. Walk-ins are welcome, though early registration is encouraged. Note, interviews will be held at the NorfolkWorks Career Center located in Downtown Norfolk at 100 Bank Street.

Questions? Call Norfolk Works at 757-763-6064.

HMSHost is a global restaurateur and the leading food and beverage operator for travel venues in North America. They partner with airports and highway toll plazas to design, open, and manage a mix of local restaurants and national brands.

05/20/2026

Looking for a job in Norfolk? Talent Connect Thursdays at NORFOLKWORKS are back, and it’s your chance to meet local employers hiring right now! The next Talent Connect Series kicks off next Thursday, May 28th, with the Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel.

Each Thursday features a different Norfolk business with openings across a variety of industries.

Check out the job openings and sign up for an interview time slot for next week! https://lnkd.in/egxkzENs

Questions? Call Norfolk Works at 757-763-6064.

05/01/2026

A historic Norfolk home is currently for sale! This is an extraordinary opportunity to own a true piece of Norfolk history.

Built in 1794, the historic Willoughby-Baylor House blends timeless architecture with the kind of character rarely found on today’s market. Rich in detail and full of potential, this signature property offers a chance to refine and create something truly exceptional. With its gracious proportions and garden setting, it’s as inspiring as it is enduring.

Homes of this caliber and significance are seldom available and even more rarely offered for sale.

Join us for an Open House
Friday, May 15 | 12:00–4:00 PM
601 E. Freemason Street, Norfolk, VA

Step inside, experience the craftsmanship, and envision what comes next.

04/10/2026

Capital Readiness Workshop | Thursday, May 7, 2026

Starting and maintaining a small business can be hard work - let’s talk about how we can provide tools for success and support for entrepreneurs. No matter where you turn in Norfolk, we’re here to help you succeed!

As we prepare for Small Business Month, the City of Norfolk Economic Development is excited to collaborate with our ecosystem partners from the Hendrix Business Center at The Slover, the City of Norfolk Government, the Department of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the Hampton Roads Sbdc to host a Capital Readiness Workshop!

▪️Thursday, May 7th
▪️9am -11:30am
▪️The Slover, 6th floor
▪️Register https://lnkd.in/eZV_jn8t

03/20/2026

GOOD NEWS! We've extended the deadline for the Revolving Loan Fund Applications to Friday, April 17! Norfolk businesses can apply through the application portal directly on our website https://norfolkdevelopment.com/revolving-loan-fund-program/.

The Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) is a financial resource designed to assist small start-up and early-stage businesses with fewer than 25 employees in the City of Norfolk. It provides low-interest loans for projects that create or retain jobs, encourage business expansion, and boost economic development.

Need assistance? Please contact our Small Business Team 757-664-6242
[email protected].

03/11/2026

There are a few interview times available for tomorrow's Talent Connect Thursday with Versability. Visit the link for job opening details and sign up for your in person interview: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/talent-connect-thursdays-versability-resources-tickets-1983891785736?aff=oddtdtcreator

02/26/2026

Our workforce development initiative, Talent Connect Thursdays, is continuing in 2026! This series brings local job seekers and employers together to meet immediate hiring needs in Norfolk.

Join us on Thursday, March 12 for our next event featuring opportunities with VersAbility Resources. They are actively hiring for a variety of roles and support inclusive employment. See details below:

📍 Location: NORFOLKWORKS HQ
📅 Date: Thursday, March 12
🕙 Time: 10 AM – 1 PM
🔗https://hubs.la/Q044SSXD0

If you have questions about the process, the NORFOLKWORKS team is here to help. Call (757) 763-6064!

02/24/2026

Connect. Learn. Thrive. Explore our Eventbrite page today!

Our Eventbrite page is your one-stop hub for programs, workshops, and networking opportunities designed to:

✅ Empower entrepreneurs
✅ Connect professionals
✅ Strengthen local businesses

Whether you’re launching a startup, building connections, or looking for resources to scale, our events provide the tools and connections you need to succeed.

👇 Follow us on Eventbrite today and never miss an opportunity!

//www.eventbrite.com/o/norfolk-economic-development-8091995215

The Norfolk Department of Economic Development is committed to fostering business growth, innovation, and talent in our community. Our Eventbrite page is your go-to hub for programs and networking opportunities designed to empower entrepreneurs, connect professionals, and strengthen local businesses...