Established in 1995, Virginia Economic Development Partnership is a marketing organization that assists, stimulates, and supports the development and expansion of the economy of the commonwealth. It promotes economic expansion through business recruitment, expansion and international trade. The partnership has offices in Virginia, Germany, Hong Kong, Mexico, Brazil, Korea and Japan. The business development division provides international investors current market, economic and demographic information. The division has four primary areas of focus that includes advanced manufacturing, transportation, services and securities, and sciences and research. Additionally, it also provides investors customized information on labor availability, land and buildings, and coordinates with government agencies on issues, such as environmental regulations and designing work force training programs. Virginia Economic Development Partnership is a state authority, which is governed by a 21-member board of directors appointed by the Governor and the Virginia General Assembly.