he Lynchburg Region will host Virginia’s Emerging Industry Summit: Data Centers – Siting & Readiness Workshop on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, bringing together local elected officials, planners, economic developers, business leaders, and industry experts for a comprehensive look at one of Virginia’s fastest-growing economic sectors.
Coordinated by Hurt & Proffitt, McGuireWoods, the Central Virginia Planning District Commission, and the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance, the Summit is designed to educate and prepare communities for the opportunities, infrastructure requirements, and policy considerations associated with data center development.
“Data centers are rapidly reshaping Virginia’s economic landscape,” said event organizers. “This Summit ensures local leaders understand what’s coming, what it takes to be competitive, and how communities can position themselves to capture long-term benefits.”
The day begins with Business @ Breakfast, presented by Pinnacle Financial, featuring a
high-level overview of data center development across the Commonwealth, including market BARNETT LLOYD trends, investment drivers, and Virginia’s competitive position. The breakfast will include a facilitated discussion with industry and economic development experts. Featuring keynote insights from Vince Barnett Industry Leader – Data Centers, Strategic Projects and Lead Generation with Virginia Economic Development Partnership and Chris Lloyd, Director, Infrastructure & Economic Development, McGuireWoods Consulting on the evolving landscape of data center development across the entire Commonwealth.
The Summit continues with facilitated workshop sessions exploring the full lifecycle of data center development—from site readiness and infrastructure requirements to construction and utility coordination, local government roles, and legislative and policy trends.
The program concludes with a panel discussion highlighting the economic and community benefits of data center development, drawing on real-world experiences from communities actively engaged in this rapidly expanding sector.
Throughout the day, participants will hear from state, regional, and local leaders; infrastructure and utility experts; real estate and construction professionals; and data center industry specialists, providing practical insight and firsthand perspectives from across Virginia.
The public Summit runs from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 300 Lucado Place in Lynchburg. Attendees may choose to participate in the breakfast session only or attend the full day. Registration is now open. Elected officials and appointed leaders are eligible for a discounted registration rate.
For more information or to register, visit: https://business.lynchburgregion.org/events
