Message from Executive Director Buddy Rizer:
Economic development is the engine that keeps Loudoun moving forward. It funds our schools, keeps taxes manageable, and sustains the quality of life that makes this county such an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family.
In my 19 years with the Department of Economic Development, I’ve witnessed Loudoun transform into one of the most dynamic counties in the nation. But the job my team and I do today is very different than when I first arrived…and that’s a good thing. Loudoun’s economy has matured, diversified, and redefined what’s possible. Two decades ago, Loudoun relied heavily on residential tax revenue, 81 percent of our revenue came from homes. In 2007, we made a deliberate decision to diversify. At the time, we set what seemed like an ambitious goal: growing our commercial tax base to 23–25 percent. Today, that number stands at 51 percent commercial, an achievement that’s virtually unmatched nationwide. That growth has allowed us to reduce the tax rate by 48 cents per $100 of assessed value, saving the average homeowner thousands of dollars when accounting for the tremendous growth in assessed value of homes in the county. That’s real, measurable impact for Loudoun residents, a true return on investment.
Behind that success is a diverse and resilient economy. From professional and business services to retail, leisure and hospitality, construction, and trades, Loudoun’s business landscape is broad and balanced. Data centers have played a significant role in generating revenue that funds schools, parks, and public safety. While that sector often gets the headlines, it’s only part of a larger story; one where entrepreneurs, restaurateurs, tradespeople, and creators are driving innovation and opportunity every day.
The past 20 years have been a story of explosive growth; the next 20 will be about sustainable evolution. With limited land and power, and a changing policy landscape, we may not see the same billion-dollar investments every year, but Loudoun’s momentum isn’t slowing down. It’s evolving.
Our focus is shifting toward:
- Growing our own businesses through programs like Launch Loudoun, which connects small business owners with mentors, capital, and free professional consulting our new technical services program at LoudounBizMatch.com.
- Advancing key industry clusters such as information technology, life sciences, advanced manufacturing, agribusiness, and cybersecurity.
- Accelerating Metro-area development, transforming our Silver Line stations into walkable, transit-connected communities that link people, jobs, and opportunity.
Loudoun’s success is built on fiscal strength and strategic foresight. We continue to hold a AAA bond rating from all three major agencies, saving taxpayers millions in borrowing costs for schools, roads, and infrastructure. Our 5.2% job growth over the past year outpaces every other major jurisdiction in Virginia, while our 3.6% unemployment rate remains well below the national average.
From a county once dependent on rooftops to one powered by innovation, Loudoun’s evolution has been deliberate and driven. The next phase of our growth will rely on the same principles that got us here; partnership, creativity, and the belief that our best work is still ahead. When our economy grows, our community thrives. Thank you for being part of Loudoun’s success. Together, we’ll continue to write the next chapter of what’s possible, because here all things are #LoudounPossible.
Buddy
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