What it is
Arlington Economic Development (AED) is the economic development organization for Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac from Washington, DC. It provides leadership and services to the business, real estate, tourism and cultural affairs sectors with the aim of keeping Arlington economically vital, competitive and sustainable. Its small business team operates under the name BizLaunch.
What it offers founders
BizLaunch offers free workshops and webinars, marketing support and business resources for Arlington entrepreneurs. Key offerings include:
- One on One Counseling: free sessions in English and Spanish covering startup and operating challenges, business plan review, County requirements and mentor matching.
- SOAR: free consulting for Arlington businesses with fewer than 50 full time employees in strategic planning, legal structure, marketing, financial management and workforce development. The page currently says it is not accepting applications.
- Open Rewards: a free customer rewards program with BluDot that lets shoppers earn credits at participating local businesses.
For tech founders, the Arlington Innovation Fund includes the Catalyst Grant Program, which has made non dilutive co investments of $25,000 to $50,000 in early stage Arlington startups selected through competitive review, and a Tech Ecosystem Support Fund for programs that strengthen the local innovation community.
Who it is for
BizLaunch serves entrepreneurs and small businesses in Arlington, including Spanish speaking founders through its Spanish language pages. AED's wider work also covers companies and headquarters considering Arlington, international businesses, nonprofits and associations, and the local startup community.
How to engage
Book a counseling session through the BizLaunch scheduling link on the counseling page or use the Contact BizLaunch for Support form, and staff will match you with the right person. AED's main line is 703-228-0808 and its email is aed@arlingtonva.us. Questions about the Innovation Fund go to aif@arlingtonva.us. AED's office is at 1100 N. Glebe Rd., Suite 1500, reachable by the Orange and Silver Metro lines.
Why it matters in the DMV ecosystem
If your company is based in Arlington, AED is the county level door to free counseling, local workshops and, for tech startups, possible grant capital. Founders outside Arlington will find more relevant help from their own county or the Virginia SBDC.
