Governor Youngkin announces over $220 million expansion plans by Solstice Advanced Materials in Chesterfield County
Chesterfield, Virginia – Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced a major economic development win for Chesterfield County, revealing that Solstice Advanced Materials Inc. will invest over $220 million to expand operations at its ballistic fiber manufacturing facility on Woods Edge Road in South Chesterfield. This expansion is expected to create 100 new jobs in the Commonwealth and marks a significant milestone in Virginia’s commitment to supporting the advanced manufacturing and materials sector.
A Commitment to Safety and Innovation
The Chesterfield facility specializes in producing ballistic body and vehicle armor fibers that are 15 times stronger than steel by weight. These lightweight materials are used to protect military personnel and first responders. The expansion reflects both increased demand for Solstice’s protective technology and the company’s confidence in Virginia’s workforce.
“Solstice Advanced Materials’ expansion in Chesterfield underscores Virginia’s leadership in the advanced manufacturing and materials industry,” said Governor Youngkin. “Their ballistic fibers help protect those who protect us, and this growth reflects the strength of the Commonwealth’s talent. Partnerships like this will ensure Virginia remains the best place to build and innovate.”
State and Local Leaders Applaud the Project
Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura also praised the announcement. “Solstice’s commitment to Chesterfield is a win for the Commonwealth and for our advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Virginia’s reliable infrastructure, pro-business climate, and world‑class workforce give innovators the confidence to scale critical technologies right here at home.”
Solstice President and CEO David Sewell noted the company’s long-term relationship with the Commonwealth. “Solstice Advanced Materials has a long history of investment and innovation in Virginia, and these investments reflect the confidence we have in the Commonwealth as a partner. Our ballistic fiber technologies play an essential role in protecting service members and first responders across the country. We deeply appreciate Governor Youngkin’s strong support for an increased investment in the talented Virginia workforce that enables us to meet growing customer demand for that offering.”
State Support and Economic Incentives
To secure this expansion, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) collaborated with Chesterfield County. Governor Youngkin approved two grants to support the project: a $2 million performance-based grant from the Virginia Investment Performance Grant, and a $1.5 million grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Chesterfield County with the expansion.
In addition, VEDP will support the company’s hiring efforts through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which helps companies by covering portions of recruiting and training costs for new employees. VJIP is a state-funded initiative designed to support expanding businesses and promote job growth across Virginia.
Chesterfield County Welcomes Long-Term Growth
Local leaders welcomed the investment with open arms. Chesterfield County Board of Supervisors Chair Mark S. Miller, Ph.D. stated, “This significant reinvestment in our community will further strengthen our local workforce and our significant advanced manufacturing base. We look forward to their continued success as they expand their footprint in our community.”
Lieutenant Governor-elect and State Senator Ghazala Hashmi added, “This investment from Solstice Advanced Materials brings new, high-quality jobs and long-term opportunities for our local workforce. This new economic development opportunity is helping cement Chesterfield County as a hub for advanced manufacturing and innovation.”
With this major expansion, Solstice Advanced Materials continues to grow its role as a global specialty materials leader, serving over 3,000 customers in 120 countries and backed by a portfolio of 5,700 patents. The company’s reinvestment in Chesterfield County demonstrates that Virginia’s commitment to innovation, workforce development, and economic strength remains stronger than ever.
