Survey Results

Throughout 2021, the Virginia Chamber conducted a series of statewide, regional, and industry-specific surveys. The results of the survey were used to inform the policy recommendations of Blueprint Virginia 2030.

Which skills are most critical to developing the workforce of the future?
STEM Skills
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
Soft Skills
Time management, leadership, etc.
Communications Skills
Technical writing, public speaking, etc.
Middle Skills
More than a high school diploma, less than a 4-year degree
What do you believe is the greatest barrier to the expansion of available internship and other work-based learning opportunities in Virginia?
#1
The need for greater connectivity between employers and educational institutions
#2
Student readiness for work-based learning
#3
Lack of centralized and authoritative hub for internship opportunities and jobseekers
Which of these policies would have the greatest negative impact on your business?
#1
Repeal of Virginia’s Right-to-Work Law
#2
Increased Regulation
#3
Increased Corporate Income Tax Rate
“Virginia’s legal climate is a significant consideration in a business’ decision on whether to locate or expand here.”
70%
Agree
5%
Disagree
“Virginia’s economy is headed in the right direction.”
71%
Agree
10%
Disagree
“Virginia has an environment that encourages entrepreneurs and businesses to innovate.”
59%
Agree
12%
Disagree
“Virginia is doing a good job preparing the workforce that businesses need.”
40%
Agree
23%
Disagree
Do you agree or disagree that international trade is good for Virginia’s economy?
91%
Agree
Are you concerned about an increasing burdensome regulatory landscape in Virginia?
78%
Yes
“It is important for Virginians to have access to affordable and quality housing.”
96%
Agree
Where do you think Virginia should be concentrating its transportation infrastructure investments?
65%
Building & maintaining roads & bridges
“Small businesses should be able to consolidate their risk pool and benefit from lower health care costs through a benefits consortium.”
90%
Agree
What is most appealing to you regarding Virginia’s business climate?
46%
Geographic location
36%
Talented workforce
Entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses would see more success in Virginia if the Commonwealth provided:
#1
A more appealing regulatory and tax structure
#2
More seed funding
#3
Additional mentorship and advisory services
Which of these tools would be the most helpful for your business to encourage hiring veterans as they transition out of the military
#1
Standard definition of military skill sets that translate to civilian industries
#2
Veterans mentoring services (Create onboarding programs to assist transition of veteran new hires)
#3
Tax incentives for hiring veterans
If Virginia could make additional investments in education and workforce development programs, where should the additional investments go?
43%
Internships, Apprenticeships, and Other Work-Based Learning
22%
K-12
13%
Community Colleges
13%
Early Childhood Education
Which areas do you believe have the most impact on Virginia’s overall economic competitiveness?
Workforce & Education
Where do you think Virginia should be concentrating its infrastructure investments?
Broadband
What is the most important component of health care to businesses and their workforce?
Affordability
What is your greatest priority regarding energy?
Reliability
What is the best way for Virginia to increase the number of advanced manufacturers in the Commonwealth?
Build the workforce of the future for these opportunities
What approach would be most effective for the state to take to support sustainability efforts and encourage environmental stewardship?
Improve public infrastructure and lead by example
What is the greatest barrier to affordable and quality housing?
Low inventory