International Business Conference Coming to Williamsburg

Friday, September 17, 2010

Colonial Williamsburg just scored another large conference in 2011, attracting the International Business Retention Conference next May.

Governor Bob McDonnell announced Thursday that the upcoming 18th annual meeting is hosted by Business Retention and Expansion (BREI) and the three local economic authorities. It will likely have about 350 attendees.

“Virginia’s existing businesses are responsible for the majority of economic growth in the Commonwealth,” McDonnell said. “Just as we work aggressively to attract new businesses to our state, we must be equally aggressive and proactive in helping our existing businesses to grow, prosper and employ more Virginians.

“This conference will help Virginia officials learn more about how to improve our economy here at home, while also bringing visitors from around the country and the world to Williamsburg. Virginia is the best place in America for conferences of all sizes, and I look forward to this great event next May.”

Williamsburg Mayor Clyde Haulman said, “Williamsburg is a natural place to hold the Business Retention and Expansion International conference. Area attractions are abundant and attendees will learn from our strong existing business programs.

“In addition to the regional cooperation between the City and the counties of James City and York and a supportive partnership with Colonial Williamsburg, we have experienced tremendous state-wide support for the conference. We are very excited to introduce economic developers from across the world to the Williamsburg area.”

BREI is a non-profit association of educators and economic development professionals who aim to help businesses retain people and expand through scientific research, instruction, publications and meetings.

This year’s conference was held in New Orleans.

The 2011 conference will be held May 9 through 12 at the Williamsburg Lodge. Colonial Williamsburg will also host the 2012 National Governor's Association Conference, which draws about 1,000 each year.