Business Resource Directory
Let’s Get You Connected
You’re ready to do business in Chesapeake. We’re ready to help make your vision a reality. Our Business Directory is a great place to start. From local advisory services, site selection, and business certifications, to setting up utility connections and networking opportunities, we’ve gathered all the information needed to get your business up and running. Beyond making connections, our economic development team is on standby to help as any questions arise. Whether you need counseling, mentoring, training, financing options, or help with site selection, we can meet you where you are and serve as a valued partner.
Chesapeake’s diverse economic landscape is nurturing and robust, supported by a business-friendly environment with competitive tax incentives and a commitment to sustainable development. The city boasts a dynamic workforce, cultivated by a network of top-tier educational institutions and technical training centers, ensuring a skilled pool of professionals ready to advance your operations.
Beyond business needs, Chesapeake offers an exceptional quality of life with affordable living, excellent education systems, and a plethora of recreational activities, promoting a fulfilled and contented community. With tailored support services for site selectors, including personalized tours and detailed demographic insights, Chesapeake ensures a seamless and informed site selection process.
Explore the strategic advantages and comprehensive support Chesapeake offers, and discover why it is the optimal choice for your business expansion or relocation.
Points of Contact
Receive sample small business plans, guidelines, one-on-one counseling, seminars, and advisers.
Certificate |
Need |
Contact Info |
| 8(a) Certification Business Certification | State Procurement Assistance | certifications@sba.gov 866-443-4110 |
| Carolinas-Virginia Minority Supplier Development Council | 8(a) Certification | Virginia Office 804-663-7782 |
| Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD) | Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) Certification | Angela Barber 757-385-4492 |
A guide to licensing your small business, ribbon cuttings, real estate, and zoning aid.
AID TYPE | Organization Website | Contact Info |
| Development and Permits | Chesapeake Development and Permits | permitsupport@cityofchesapeake.net |
| Business License | Chesapeake Economic Development | Main Office: 757-382-8040 |
| Zoning Help | City of Chesapeake Commissioner of the Revenue | Frank King 757-382-6738 |
Explore all available options in financing your small business.
Expand your existing small business into Chesapeake.
Organization Website | Contact Email |
| Small Business Development Center, Hampton Roads | Jolie Spiers 757-664-2592 |
Expand your small business internationally.
Organization Website | Contact Email |
| Virginia Economic Development Partnership – International Trade | Elizabeth DiConstanzo 757-506-4770 |
Network with other small business owners in Hampton Roads.
Organization Website | Contact Email |
| BizConnect, Hampton Roads | Laura Henderson 757-927-5200 |
| Hampton Roads Chamber of Commerce, Chesapeake Division | 757-622-2312 |
Receive sample small business plans, guidelines, one-on-one counseling, seminars, and advisers.
Local resources for new start-ups and technology businesses.
Electric and Natural Gas Providers
- Dominion
Virginia’s largest electric utility company. Industrial rates average 3.5 cents per kWh, approximately 16% below national average for customers of investor-owned utilities. - Virginia Natural Gas
Virginia Natural Gas serves the eastern half of Chesapeake, VA - Columbia Gas of Virginia
Columbia Gas of Virginia serves the western portion of Chesapeake, VA
Water and Solid Waste Providers
Chesapeake, VA
City owned and operated waterworks system. Primarily supplied by Chesapeake’s Northwest River with additional purchases from Portsmouth and Norfolk. The City of Chesapeake’s future water supply also includes a one-sixth partnership in the Lake Gaston Project.
- Total storage capacity: 26.25 million gallons
- Average consumption: 14.3 MGD
- Current maximum supply: 18.75 MGD
- Cumulative water supply: 28.75 million gallons
Southeastern Public Service Authority (SPSA)
Solid waste disposal provided by the Southeastern Public Service Authority; includes a regional landfill and other solid waste disposal services.
Hampton Roads Sanitation District (HRSD)
Municipal system provides sanitary sewage collection and Hampton Roads Sanitation District provides sewage treatment.
Telecommunications Providers
Resources for veteran-owned small businesses in Chesapeake.
Resources for women-owned small businesses in Chesapeake.
Organization Website | Contact Email |
| Old Dominion University- Women’s Business Center | Erika Small-Sisco 757-683-5517 |
| VA Department of Small Business & Supplier Diversity (SBSD) | Angela Barber 757-385-4492 |
Visit Our Business Center
We built a comprehensive resource hub for businesses in Chesapeake, offering in-depth research, extensive data, logistical solutions, and details about important tax incentives. It’s our goal to fuel innovation and ensure your success at every stage of business development.
Small Business Resources
We believe in the power of small businesses to transform communities, innovate industries, and drive economic growth. Check out the resources, tools, and tailored, expert advice we have available to meet the unique needs of small businesses.