International Trade Facility Grant Program
International Trade Facility Grant Program supports companies creating jobs or investing in facilities and equipment that increase cargo movement and qualified trade through Virginia maritime ports.
Funder: Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Due Dates: November 1, 2026 (Pre-application) | March 31, 2027 (General application)
Funding Amounts: $3,500 per qualified full-time employee (adjusted annually) or 2% of qualified capital investment
Summary: Grants support companies that increase cargo movement through Virginia maritime ports by creating jobs or making capital investments.
Key Information: A mandatory pre-application is required to remain eligible for an award.
Description
The International Trade Facility Grant Program is a component of the Port of Virginia Economic Development Program and Fund. The Virginia Port Authority administers it with assistance from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership. It supports companies engaged in port-related activities that increase qualified trade through Virginia maritime port facilities.
Applicants choose an award based on new, permanent full-time jobs or capital investment that facilitates increased trade. Qualifying investment can include expansion or rehabilitation of commercial or industrial buildings, land and transportation-access improvements, and machinery, tools, or equipment directly related to cargo movement. In reviewing pre-applications, the program prioritizes substantial infrastructure investment, job creation, larger absolute cargo-volume increases, sustained cargo volumes, and certain recommendations or state incentive packages.
