The Hampton Roads Partnership is a unique public-private organization formed in 1996 with 17 localities and over 116 members consisting of chief elected officials, business leaders, educators, military personnel, non-profits and labor representatives. Its mission is to facilitate strategic discussions and convene regional leadership to address issues that improve the economic competitiveness of the Hampton Roads area. It aims to foster collaboration between government, business, the military, education and citizens on research, technology and economic development.