The mission of the Economic Development Office is to implement an effective, prudent, and cost effective economic development program that results in a strong corporate tax base and good quality jobs for all county residents. Much of this work involves coordination with the Economic Development Authority (EDA), the Bedford Joint Economic Development Authority (BJEDA), and the Agricultural Economic Development Advisory Board (AEDAB). Additionally, staff works cooperatively with regional and state organizations, such as the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Region 2000 Economic Development Council, and other regional organizations such as the Workforce Investment Board, Technology Council, and Young Professionals of Central Virginia. Locally, there is also a close cooperative partnership with the economic development staff of the City of Bedford.

Key components of the economic development efforts include:

1. Support for the retention and expansion of existing business - full and ongoing existing business program
2. Attraction of new business to the Bedford area - active recruitment program, including the maintenance of sites and buildings for new business locations; a competitive incentive program; ongoing marketing program in cooperation with regional and state initiatives
3. Support to the agricultural economy - assistance to the farm community through an active and well-rounded program
4. Workforce - coordination between the business community and education on both secondary and higher ed level.