(Washington, D.C., May 6, 2013) – Business and government leaders from the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) will promote best practices for successful business ventures in the U.S. territory at the first ever U.S. Virgin Islands Economic Development Summit on Friday, June 7, 2013 in Washington, D.C. Entitled "U.S. Virgin Islands…Your Destination for Business," this informative summit brings together government officials, private enterprise, and new business prospects at the Washington Navy Yard Conference Center at 1454 Parsons Avenue, S.E., Building 211, Washington, D.C. from 8:00am to 5:30pm. A pre-summit reception will be held on Thursday, June 6 at the Washington Navy Yard from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

The 2013 USVI Economic Development Summit is being hosted in the nation's capital by the USVI Alliance with the support of the 340 Group. The Alliance is a collaboration of Virgin Islanders with ideas around economic and community-based initiatives intending to have positive, sustainable impact on their home. More than just a leading tourist destination, the Virgin Islands is a U.S. territory that offers the unique blend of Caribbean lifestyle with the economic and financial security of doing business. Targeting business executives across the U.S., including the broader Virgin Islands community, this conference will convene the territory's most experienced policy makers and advocates spearheading economic recovery and development in and for USVI. 340 Group representative Barbara Farrington says, "The Summit offers an opportunity for entrepreneurs, businesses, industry, nonprofit organizations, academia, governments and community members to learn first-hand about economic incentives, opportunities for new industries, and underscore the fact that the USVI is open for business!"

The event keynote speakers include, Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands John P. deJongh, Jr., Congresswoman Donna M. Christensen, and Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority CEO Percival Clouden who will discuss strategies identified for achieving a 60 percent reduction in fossil fuel consumption by 2025, affordable health care, workforce development, and how companies can benefit from business tax credits and incentives while moving forward with industry business partnerships. Other presenters include select executive level government officials and private industry leaders who will outline best practices for contracting with the government, economic incentives for job creation, affordable housing initiatives, and opportunities in tourism, energy, information technology and other industries.

Online registration is available at USVI 2013 Economic Development Summit. Early Bird registration is $149 per person until May 15th and includes registration, reception, and meals. After May 15th the price is $199 per person. Special hotel rates available at the Courtyard Washington Capitol Hill/Navy Yard through May 13, 2013. For more information contact Ms. Lo'an Sewer at 571-335-8593 or info@usvieds.com.