The Virginia Chamber of Commerce unveiled its long-term economic strategy, Blueprint Virginia 2035, during the 2025 Virginia Economic Summit and Forum on International Trade, presenting the plan to Gov.-elect Abigail Spanberger.

The plan is the result of a yearlong statewide effort aimed at strengthening Virginia’s position as a top state for business over the next decade. The summit was co-hosted by the Virginia Chamber Foundation and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. 

“Blueprint Virginia 2035 reflects a unified statewide vision for the economic future of all Virginians,” said Keith Martin, interim president and CEO of the Virginia Chamber. “We are grateful to the more than 10,000 business leaders, community partners and regional stakeholders who shared their expertise during this process.” 

The Blueprint Virginia 2035 effort was co-chaired by Monica Schmude, president of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Virginia, and Edmond Hughes, executive vice president and chief human resources officer of HII. Schmude said the process revealed consistent concerns across regions about health care access and affordability. 

“Throughout the Blueprint Virginia tour, one message rang clear across every region of the Commonwealth: Virginians want a healthier future that’s also more affordable and easily accessible. This plan reflects the voices of our communities — and with strong partnerships across sectors, we can turn this vision into real and lasting impact,” Schmude said. 

Spanberger received the plan as part of a tradition upheld by recent incoming governors and said it will help guide her administration’s economic priorities. 

“I believe the number-one job of the Governor of Virginia is to strengthen the Commonwealth’s economy and attract new jobs. Blueprint Virginia 2035 will help provide a roadmap for growing a Virginia economy where every Virginian can earn a good living — and where businesses know they’ll have access to a talented workforce that is prepared to succeed,” Spanberger said. “As Governor, I will always be focused on strengthening our workforce, protecting our trade partnerships and working with our business community — including the Virginia Chamber of Commerce — to make sure our Commonwealth continues to lead the way.” 

The summit included remarks from John G. Murphy, senior vice president and head of international affairs for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, who addressed national and global trade trends. Attendees also heard from Jason El Koubi, president and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. 

More information and the full plan are available at blueprintvirginia.org.