Virginia. Dept. of Economic Development.

The Department of Economic Development traces its beginnings to the Commission on Conservation and Development, created by an act of the General Assembly on March 17, 1926. The responsibility for planning and assisting Virginia's industrial development was carried out by an administrative division within the Commission, which evolved into department status by 1948. Subsequently, the Division of Industrial Development and Planning was established by the General Assembly March 30, 1962, under the supervision and direction of the Governor.

In 1966, the planning function was transferred to the newly-created Division of State Planning and Community Affairs, which developed a master plan for the state. This division became the Department of Planning and Budget in 1976. The Division of Industrial Development continued with its function of offering assistance in the development of industries within the state under the Secretary of Commerce and Resources.

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