Michael Evans

About Michael Evans

I lead with a data-driven approach to economic development, turning research into strategy that drives investment, site development, and regional competitiveness. My work focuses on helping organizations and regions translate complex data into confident decisions that shape sustainable, long-term growth.Since joining the Alliance, I’ve advised on projects representing $1.7 billion in capital investment and over new jobs, helping strengthen Hampton Roads’ position as one of the nation’s most dynamic coastal economies. My team’s work integrates economic and fiscal impact analysis, real estate and site-readiness strategy, and data-driven storytelling to guide business recruitment and public investment decisions.My background as a Budget and Policy Analyst sharpened my expertise in fiscal modeling, forecasting, and strategic policy development. This experience now informs my approach to economic development strategy and regional competitiveness.Recognized as a regional thought leader and CoVaBIZ NextGen honoree, I advise business, government, and community leaders on issues shaping Hampton Roads’ future, from housing and workforce alignment to long-term fiscal impact, investment, and competitiveness.My work centers on helping public and private leaders turn analysis into action, using data to shape strategy, guide investment, and strengthen regional competitiveness. I’m always open to collaborating on economic development, real estate, and investment strategy initiatives, or connecting with leaders who share a passion for building stronger, more resilient regions.

Experience

1. Director of Business Intelligence

   Hampton Roads Alliance

   Jul 2023 — Present · Norfolk, VA, US

   I lead the Business Intelligence Division at the Hampton Roads Alliance, guiding research, market intelligence, and real estate strategy to drive economic growth across 15 localities. My team delivers fiscal and economic impact analyses, market insights, and consulting services that enable confident, data-driven decisions.My work focuses on turning data into strategy, quantifying and communicating the value of growth to align public investment, private development, and community outcomes. Known for bridging analytics and storytelling, I serve as a trusted regional economic voice on key trends, housing, affordability, and competitiveness, helping decision-makers connect numbers to narratives that shape policy and investment.As a primary author of the region’s Growth & Diversification Plan and the primary data and analysis contributor to Community Current for Virginia Beach, I help define Hampton Roads’ vision for sustainable, inclusive development. Through the Alliance’s Real Estate Solutions platform, I oversee site readiness, market reporting, and actionable location intelligence that strengthen the region’s position for business expansion and talent attraction.Key Highlights- Advised on projects representing $1.7 billion in capital investment and over new jobs- Delivered fiscal impact studies quantifying returns on public incentives and infrastructure investments- Served as a trusted regional economic voice, co-authoring the Growth & Diversification Plan and Virginia Beach’s Community Current while advising on housing and competitiveness across Hampton Roads- Established the Real Estate Solutions division to enhance site readiness, investment attraction, and regional data transparency

Education

• William & Mary

  Bachelor’s Degree, Public Policy, Economics

• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.), Economic and Community Development