The City of Danville is proud to announce that it will host the 2026 Virginia Economic Developers Association (VEDA) Fall Conference on September 23-25, 2026. The conference, one of four major statewide events hosted annually by VEDA, will take place at Caesars Virginia and is expected to welcome over 300 economic development professionals from across the Commonwealth.
In addition to educational sessions and networking opportunities, attendees will have the chance to experience many of the assets that have contributed to Danville's economic transformation and growing tourism industry. Conference experiences will include a guided tour of downtown Danville, showcasing more than 15 years of transformative revitalization and investment.
"We are honored to welcome economic development professionals from across Virginia to Danville," said Project Manager, Samantha Bagbey. "Hosting the VEDA Fall Conference provides an opportunity to showcase the partnerships, investments, and vision that have helped transform our community over the past two decades. We look forward to sharing our story, highlighting the momentum occurring throughout the region, and welcoming visitors to experience firsthand the people, places, and projects that continue to shape Danville's future."
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Participants may also take part in an agritourism tour through Danville and Pittsylvania County, featuring stops at the Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex, Funky Fleece Farm, Hunt and Company Restaurant, The Homeplace Vineyard, and 2 Witches Winery & Brewing Company. Additional conference activities include the annual Fall Golf Outing at Danville Golf Club, as well as special discounts for karting experiences at VIRginia International Raceway.
"Conferences like this are an additional driver of tourism for our region," said Lisa Meriwether, Tourism Manager. "Visitors travel here for professional development and networking, but they also have the opportunity to experience everything that makes our community special. From locally owned restaurants and unique attractions to our hotels, shops, and entertainment venues, events like this showcase the best of Danville and Pittsylvania County. We encourage local businesses and community partners to take advantage of this opportunity to welcome visitors and share their own story."
The Virginia Economic Developers Association was established in 1982 when a group of professionals from across the Commonwealth came together with a shared goal of advancing the practice of economic development in Virginia. Today, the organization serves economic development practitioners through professional development, networking opportunities, and the exchange of ideas and best practices. VEDA's mission is to increase the effectiveness of individuals engaged in economic development throughout Virginia. To learn more about VEDA’s mission, visit https://www.goveda.org/.
