Workforce & Demographics

A rich blend of cultural backgrounds makes the Lynchburg region an appealing hub for businesses seeking diversity. While the majority of residents identify as white, 27.6% of Lynchburg’s population is Black or African American — exceeding the national average according to 2023 U.S. Census data. This vibrant Black community and deep roots in civil rights brings historic depth and contemporary influence, reflected in the city’s thriving Black-owned businesses, diverse restaurants, and dynamic contributions to local arts, music, and community events. 

Emerging demographic trends further enhance Lynchburg’s diversity. The city’s Hispanic or Latino population grew by 1.8 percentage points between 2010 and 2022, now comprising 4.7% of residents, while the Asian population stands at 2.2%. These growing groups contribute to an increasingly multifaceted community, making Lynchburg a welcoming environment for businesses and talent. The presence of Liberty University, a major educational institution with international students, has also contributed to a more diverse student and faculty population, further enriching the area’s cultural fabric. The city’s mix of races and ethnicities brings a unique blend of traditions, cuisines, festivals, and community activities that help make Lynchburg an interesting and evolving place to live.

The Lynchburg region is home to seven distinguished universities and colleges that play a pivotal role in shaping the local workforce, contributing to Lynchburg Virginia demographics, and driving economic growth. From nuclear to nutrition, chemistry to construction, the region’s educational institutions are preparing a workforce to meet the needs of expanding industries. Among these institutions are:

• Central Virginia Community College
• Liberty University
• University of Lynchburg
• Randolph College
• Sweet Briar College
• Virginia Technical Institute
• Virginia University of Lynchburg

Liberty University stands out as Virginia’s largest and fastest-growing academic institution. The private university significantly enhances the state’s diverse workforce by producing well-educated and highly trained graduates, contributing an impressive $74.3 million in human capital.. Central Virginia Community College — a strong regional partner — supplies skilled workers in critical sectors such as healthcare, IT, nuclear tech, and manufacturing. Sweet Briar College, located in nearby Amherst County, boasts one of only two ABET-accredited engineering programs at a women’s college in the country. University of Lynchburg is a nationally recognized private university where students gain a greater heart for humanity and a mindset of individual growth. Randolph College is a nationally recognized, private, coeducational, liberal arts and sciences institution with a career focus.

Colleges and universities in the Lynchburg region provide businesses with customized programs and degrees tailored to regional key industries. This alignment ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the specific needs of local employers — fostering a synergistic relationship between academia and the business community.

With a median age of 28 in the city of Lynchburg, the region is significantly shaped by its youthful demographic. Central to harnessing this potential is the Young Professionals of Central Virginia (YPCV), a partner of the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance. Boasting close to 400 members, YPCV is dedicated to fostering the personal and professional growth of its members through a variety of enriching experiences.

The YPCV organizes more than 10 events annually, providing ample opportunities for networking, professional development, and community service. Among these events is the Level Up YP Summit, a one-day annual gathering that features motivational speakers and thought-provoking breakout sessions designed to inspire and equip young professionals. Through these initiatives, YPCV not only enhances individual career trajectories but also strengthens the broader Lynchburg community by cultivating a well-connected, skilled, and engaged workforce.

Whether your business offers industrial or professional services, keeping your workforce up-to-date with the latest skills and technologies is a must in today’s competitive marketplace. The Lynchburg region helps both types of businesses, with the No. 1 Customized Workforce Training Program in the U.S. for 2023.

The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is delivered by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System, providing world-class training and recruitment solutions tailored to a company’s unique operations, equipment, standards, and culture. As an incentive program for job creation, all services are offered at no cost to qualified new and expanding companies. Recruitment services may include assisting business develop:

• Customized websites
• Advertising
• Broadcast quality videos

Accelerate the opening or expansions of your facility by expediting recruitment and shortening the new-hire learning curve. The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program’s highly customized, job-specific training services utilize the most effective methodologies and media for each topic, ensuring rapid and thorough learning. These training methods include:

• Hands-on training
• Simulations
• Broadcast-quality videos
• Illustrated work instructions
• Instructor-led classroom sessions
• Animations
• E-learning modules

Beyond workforce training, the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program offers organizational development and operational excellence training and consultation services.