When people think about economic development, they often picture the flash and glamor that happens AFTER much of the hard work of getting open is complete. They picture ribbon cuttings, new business announcements, grand openings, and they see a new space bustling with the employees, and the processes and systems all in place. While these milestones are exciting, they represent only a small part of the process for our clients. Behind every business is a story of planning, relationship building, problem-solving, and collaboration, and that work can take months or even years to get to the first celebratory news release.
As someone who works closely with small businesses in Leesburg, I’ve had the opportunity to watch these stories unfold firsthand. Three local businesses offer a great example of what economic development looks like day to day. While these examples focus on small businesses, the same principles apply to economic development at every scale. Whether supporting a local entrepreneur or working to attract a major employer, the work requires a long-term perspective, strategy and thoughtful planning, strong relationship building, and coordination among many partners.
The Chocolate Palette
I first connected with The Chocolate Palette in 2018 at a networking event where Cheryl, the owner, was passing out samples of chocolate. They were delicious by the way! After years of exploring her options, operating from a seasonal location outside of Leesburg, and refining her business plan, Cheryl continued managing a local coffee shop while perfecting her chocolates and desserts. Her hard work and persistence recently culminated in the opening of a permanent Leesburg location, complete with a kitchen and space for customers to eat, gather, and enjoy her creations. What might appear to be a single opening-day milestone is actually the culmination of a much longer journey, built on persistence, relationships, and a commitment to making a business vision a reality.
Birch Tree Books and Plants
My relationship with Birch Tree Books and Plants also began in 2019. Since then, I’ve watched the owner steadily grow her business from leasing a small shelf for her books inside another business, to occupying a larger room, and eventually opening her own location and gaining a business partner. Along the way, she has expanded her offerings to include plants, book clubs, and community resources, creating a welcoming space that continues to grow with the community.
In September, they expanded again, moving into an even larger space! Their journey is a reminder that business growth rarely happens overnight. More often, it’s the result of small, strategic steps that build on one another over time. Our office has been part of that journey, working alongside the business as it has grown and serving as a resource to help navigate Town requirements, explore opportunities, and find the right way to support its continued success.
Kilwins Ice Cream & Chocolates
Even Kilwins Ice Cream & Chocolates, which moved through the process relatively quickly compared to some businesses, took more than a year to get established after looking at several possible locations. A successful opening requires more than finding a location and signing a lease. Business owners must navigate permitting and approvals, coordinate with property owners and contractors, prepare their spaces, hire employees, and work through many necessary required details to open their doors.
These stories highlight why economic development takes time and requires collaboration across multiple departments and organizations. Workforce availability, permitting requirements, site suitability, and business needs all play a role in determining whether and how a business can move forward. Connecting business owners with the right resources, helping them understand Town processes, and bringing the right people to the table can make a meaningful difference.
Not every milestone is measurable and visible to the public, and not every conversation results in an immediate announcement and in some cases the client is unable to find what they are looking for in Leesburg. Sometimes, progress means helping a business navigate a challenge, identifying a potential location, making an introduction, or simply playing the long game and staying connected until the timing is right.
Economic development isn’t only about development and bringing businesses to Leesburg to increase commercial tax revenue. It’s about helping businesses put down roots, grow, and become part of what makes Leesburg unique. Through the products, services, and experiences they offer, these businesses become woven into the fabric of our community, creating connections and contributing to the character of Leesburg.
For me, one of the most rewarding parts of the job is looking back at a relationship that began years ago and seeing just how far a business has come and being elated for their success.