AED Overview

Arlington Economic Development (AED) is the department of Arlington County Government which is dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of an economically vital, competitive, and sustainable community by providing aggressive leadership and superior services to the commercial, visitors and housing development sectors of Arlington's economy.

AED is comprised of the following operating groups:

Business Investment Group

The Business Investment Group (BIG) provides a wide array of services and information designed to promote the County as a business location for domestic and international companies and organizations and to assist those businesses already located in Arlington.

BIG's dedication professionals work with organizations of all sizes and types to locate, expand, start a business or develop a project in the County. The Group's emphasis is on individual attention while providing a variety of free and confidential services. BIG staff prepare individualized proposals for businesses and packages services to meet their needs; market information, match-making, site location and project development assistance, and employee orientations.

The Real Estate Development Group

Arlington County's reputation as a well-managed community with an excellent location and Metrorail access has contributed to its stability within the regional real estate market. The Real Estate Development Group (REDG) provide technical assistance on evaluating and acquiring property, construction management, financing and residential property management.

REDG also provides advice and assistance on enhancing the appearance of commercial properties, and serves as a liaison between business and other Arlington County government agencies to facilitate permitting, answer questions and find creative solutions to issues that arise.

The Arlington Convention & Visitors Service

The Arlington Convention & Visitors Service (ACVS) is the County's liaison between potential visitors and the businesses that host them during their visits. As an arm of the County's Department of Economic Development, ACVS acts as an information clearinghouse, meeting management consultant, and marketing and promotional agency. The major objectives of ACVS are to work with Arlington hotel community to maximize occupancy levels and to work with the entire community to ensure that visitors have a successful and satisfying travel experience in Arlington.

The County's promotional efforts are enhanced and amplified by local, regional and state cooperative marketing, advertising, and public relations. Partners include County hospitality providers, Virginia's tourism office, and regional destination marketing organizations.

AED also supports the following Services:

• BizLaunch
• The Arlington County Visitors Center
• The Arlington Business Center
• Incubator America
• The Economic Development Commission