The local school systems and secondary educational institutions, like the University of Virginia and Piedmont Virginia Community College, provide top-notch educations. Students benefit from the education, while local employers benefit from having a well-educated work force. Over half of the city's work force has a college or advanced degree, a fact that helps the local economy boom. Piedmont Virginia Community College goes one step further in this link by offering customized education and training programs, which are tailored to suit local merchants' needs. In addition to some of the nation's best schools, the city's small-town feel fosters cooperation among residents and business leaders.
Many local organizations cooperate to help integrate newcomers.
The Chamber of Commerce, for example, listens to local entrepreneurs' needs and allows business leaders to network. Other resources for merchants who bring their businesses to Charlottesville include the Thomas Jefferson Partnership of Economic Development, the Small Business Development Center, and the Service Corps of Retired Executives Association. These groups provide information about starting businesses, business programs, and local business regulations. Home Copyright 2001.