The wealthy Englishmen supported the development of colonies because it helped them. First, Virginia offered 50 acres of land for every person you bought a ticket to america for. The wealthy Englishmen would ship people over to work for them, and get more land for every person. Also, many people thought there was gold in America, because of the rich natives. Lastly, they could also serve in the House of Burgesses meaning they would get even more power.