Fairfax City and partner agencies summarized several economic-development initiatives aimed at supporting local businesses and workforce development.

A city economic development representative described the Fairfax City Flex Card as an e-gift program that keeps sales within the city and can be used at participating retail, restaurant and service businesses. "Shopping local in Fairfax City just got much easier with the Fairfax City Flex Card," the presenter said, noting 100% of sales remain within Fairfax City and directing listeners to fairfaxcityconnected.com/flex.

The city also highlighted Upskill Fairfax City, a partnership with Northern Virginia Community College that offers tuition assistance for Fairfax City residents and employees to gain certifications in fields such as IT and health care. A representative said the Economic Development Office also supports businesses with real-estate selection, workforce development and connections to government contracting opportunities.

Representatives from the Minority Business Development Agency explained they provide consultations and make referrals to resource partners, including small-business development centers and community development financial institutions. The MBDA representative said access to capital remains the top challenge for minority- and small-business owners and emphasized education, introductions to lenders and certificate programs to improve financial literacy.

City staff and partners described grant programs such as LIFT and FIG that the city launched after the pandemic to attract businesses and support lease stability; the briefing did not include formal approvals or budget votes.