Innovation in Government: How Virginia Gained its Competitive Edge in the Global Environment

Timothy M. Kaine, Governor, the Commonwealth of Virginia

Having just completed his first year in office, Virginia Governor Timothy M. Kaine will add Hong Kong, Japan and India to his growing list of trade missions on behalf of Virginia business.

Governor Kaine will discuss the following topics:
- How a city can create a favorable climate to attract investment
- Global competition
- How state-of-the-art transport hubs develop business
- Virginia's international strategy
- Nation-wide political developments and Washington after the election

Tim Kaine was inaugurated as Virginia's 70th governor in January 2006. After only a week in office, Governor Kaine provided the nationally televised Democratic party response to President Bush's 2006 State of the Union address. His successful gubernatorial election campaign emphasized four principles to improve Virginia's quality of life: raising the bar for public education; finding common-sense solutions to Virginia's transportation challenges; creating jobs throughout the state; and providing better tools to local governments.

Kaine previously served four terms on the Richmond City Council, including two terms as mayor. While Kaine was mayor, Richmond became one of the 10 best cities in America to do business, according to Forbes magazine. Virginia was recognized in August 2006 by Forbes as "The Best State for Business" in the U.S. He is a graduate of the University of Missouri and the Harvard Law School.