BT

Blacksburg Transit Named Outstanding Transit System of North America

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Blacksburg, VA – American Public Transportation Association (APTA) selected Blacksburg Transit (BT) the 2019 Outstanding Transit System award for North America. Each year, APTA chooses a transit system that performs exceptionally as an organization as well as benefits the community. The award was received for the small urban system category which is defined by annual ridership of four million or less and includes bus systems and rail transportation in North America. Transit systems were scored on their performance in 24 quantitative and qualitative criteria.
“We’ve had unprecedented ridership growth of 22 percent over the last three years when most systems in our industry are facing declines. Through employee dedication, innovation and the support of our stakeholders we’ve taken the organization to new heights while never compromising our high standards.” – Tom Fox, BT Director
Blacksburg Transit has 50 buses that serve 13 routes in Christiansburg and Blacksburg, including on Virginia Tech’s campus. Virginia Tech students and employees can even ride for free when they use their Hokie Passport. BT passengers can also make connections to other bus lines that serve Radford, Roanoke, and Washington, D.C. Click here to learn more about Blacksburg Transit including maps, routes, and schedules.
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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.” Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
Calfee Park

Motor Mile Field Voted Best Rookie-Level Ballpark

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Pulaski County, VA – Motor Mile Field at Calfee Park was chosen by the Ballpark Digest Best of the Ballparks annual fan voting competition as the best rookie-level ballpark in America.

Calfee Park beat out two-time champion TVA Credit Union Ballpark, home to the Johnson City Cardinals in the semi-final rounds of voting. The ballpark has received numerous updates since the Shelor Automotive Group purchased Calfee Park in 2015. Some of these updates include:

  • A new visiting team clubhouse
  • Concession stand
  • Press box
  • Souvenir store
  • Two VIP towers
  • JumboTron

    • The most recent update completed right before the 2019 season included a three-tiered party deck and new boxes, increasing the park’s capacity to 3,200.

    “This is the result of five years of continued improvements and support of the community. We’re proud of this ballpark and the upgrades over past years that have helped Calfee Park meet the standards of the New York Yankees and Minor League Baseball.”
      – David Hagan, Calfee Park owner

    The Pulaski Yankees are midway through their season with a winning record, putting them at the top of the Appalachian League division. Tickets are available at pulaskiyankees.net, at the Calfee Park box offices, or by calling (540) 980-1070.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    Ozmo Completes Two-Year VALET Program

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    RICHMOND — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that 14 companies from across the Commonwealth have graduated from the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s (VEDP) Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) Program. The program, which now has 290 graduates, assists Virginia exporters that have firmly established their domestic operations and are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy. “The Virginia Leaders in Export Trade program provides growth-minded companies with the tools and expertise they need to navigate new markets and successfully export overseas,” said Governor Northam. “International trade is a powerful economic engine in our Commonwealth and we are proud to support this valuable program that helps businesses of all sizes and industries thrive in the global marketplace. I congratulate these Virginia companies on their tremendous international performance and I am confident they will see continued success here in Virginia and abroad.” The graduating companies recognized during an event in Richmond today include:
    • Ozmo, Inc. (Montgomery County)
    • Avizia (Fairfax County)
    • Axis Global Enterprises Inc. (City of Virginia Beach)
    • Fulcrum Concepts, LLC (King and Queen County)
    • Global Center for Automotive Performance Simulation (GCAPS) (Halifax County)
    • High Threat Concealment (James City County)
    • Higher Logic (Arlington County)
    • International Flooring & Protective Coatings, Inc. (IFPC) (City of Norfolk)
    • Klas Telecom Government Inc. (Fairfax County)
    • Logos Technologies LLC (Fairfax County)
    • Matrix International, Inc. (Fairfax County)
    • PunchOut2Go, LLC (Albemarle County)
    • Red 5 Holdings, Inc. (Fairfax County)
    • The PBE Group (Tazewell County)
    Currently, the VALET program has 45 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. To date, 335 Virginia companies have participated in the VALET program.
    “The VALET program, administered by VEDP’s dedicated International Trade team, is one of our most well-regarded tools for bolstering trade activity in the Commonwealth. This world-class program has helped nearly 340 homegrown companies to increase their export sales, contributing economic growth and ensuring that Virginia remains competitive in the global marketplace.” – Stephen Moret, VEDP President and CEO
    The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe. The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion, and international trade development. For more information on the VALET Program click here.
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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.” Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
    NanoSonic

    Giles County Company Selected for VALET Program

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    Two-year export program provides resources to support international business expansion

    NanoSonic, Inc., into its two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. The VALET program assists companies in the Commonwealth that are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy. To participate, each business must meet both quantitative and qualitative selection criteria. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growing export sales. To date, 335 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

    “The VALET program, administered by VEDP’s dedicated International Trade team, is one of our most well-regarded tools for bolstering trade activity in the Commonwealth,” said VEDP President and CEO Stephen Moret.

    “This world-class program has helped nearly 340 homegrown companies to increase their export sales, contributing economic growth and ensuring that Virginia remains competitive in the global marketplace.” – Stephen Moret

    “The VALET program puts participating companies on the fast track to international business growth by connecting them with the necessary tools for successful international sales,” said Paul Grossman, Vice President of International Trade. “We are happy to welcome NanoSonic into the VALET Program and look forward to working with them over the course of the next two years.”

    Currently, the VALET program has 45 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. These private sector service providers contribute essential expertise to assist companies in executing export plans and include attorneys, web designers, bankers, translators, accountants, and freight forwarders.

    The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

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    NanoSonic, Inc.

    NanoSonic is a Research & Development company specializing in the design and manufacture of innovative materials, especially new materials that are currently unavailable in the commercial market. NanoSonic has developed a range of polymer-based materials and services for the aerospace, defense, and electronics industries, and its clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and NASA. For more information, please visit http://www.nanosonic.com.

    Virginia Economic Development Partnership

    The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade development.

    For more information on the VALET Program, visit http://exportvirginia.org/services/programs-grants.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    MOVA

    MOVA Technologies Partners with VT to Collect and Recycle Pollutants

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    Pulaski County, VA – MOVA Technologies is partnering with Virginia Tech to to test a filtration system that could have major implications for fossil fuel-burning plants.

    MOVA Technologies recently received $50,000 from Governor Ralph Northam as part of the Commonwealth Research Commercialization Fund Awards to test out prototypes of panel-bed filters. The company is currently in their final stage of testing, which is taking place at VT’s Advanced Power and Propulsion Laboratory. If all goes well, the filters will collect coal fly ash, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon dioxide and will be contained in a solid sorbent material for safe transport. These chemicals will then be resold to companies who need them for production.

    Joseph Meadows, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at VT, will be analyzing the filters at his test cell lab over the next 6 months. The filters will be tested in variety of operating conditions with various containments to test its efficacy and identify which gases are going through the filter. Additionally, Stephen Martin, VT associate professor of chemical engineering, will play a supporting role as the expert in solid sorbents. Martin will be on hand to modify the solid sorbents as needed during the testing phase.

    “We’re pleased to keep development of the panel-bed in Southwest Virginia. The majority of our capital investors are from this region, and the technology is designed for applications that could benefit Virginia’s economy, with a specific emphasis on Southwest Virginia.”
      – James Compton, Operations Officer at MOVA Technologies

    According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this type of carbon filtration technology was not expected to be available until 2030. However, MOVA intends on bringing it to market next year. This system will take up less space as well as reduce costs compared to existing technology. Studies have indicated that the panel-bed could potentially reduce capital and operating costs by 15% and 25%, respectively.

    Virginia Tech Knowledge Works conducted a market study that determined this filtration system has the ability to generate annual revenues of between $500 million and $1 billion. The proof-of-concept testing is expected to be complete by March 2020 and from there the company hopes to begin production. Steve Critchfield, MOVA’s president and CEO, wants to bring jobs to Southwest Virginia.

    MOVA
    “One thing I’m excited about is these fabrication jobs will pay enough to entice people from Southwest Virginia back who are now on oil rigs and pipelines. I’m hoping this will be a major step toward stopping the exodus of people from Southwest Virginia.” – Steve Critchfield

    While there is still quite a bit of testing to be done on these panel-beds, MOVA is already researching ways to expand this technology to the agriculture industry helping to removing hazardous emissions and odorous smells.

    Check out MOVA Technologies to learn more about the filtration system process and why this project is so important.

    Photo Credits: MOVA Technologies

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    Volvo Trucks

    Volvo Group to Create 777 New Jobs in Pulaski County Expansion

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    Company to invest nearly $400 million to expand heavy-duty truck manufacturing operation Dublin, VA — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that the Volvo Group will invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America New River Valley (NRV) assembly operation in Pulaski County. Major components of the investment include a new 350,000-square-foot building that will ultimately house truck cab welding operations; an expansion of the existing plant to allow for further improvements to the facility’s paint operations and overall material/production flow; and a variety of equipment upgrades, including installation of several state-of-the-art dynamometers for vehicle testing. Volvo considered sites in multiple other states for the expansion project, which will create 777 new jobs within approximately six years.
    “As the leading private employer in the New River Valley, Volvo Trucks has been a bedrock of this community for more than forty years and has fueled the regional economy. The company’s decision to grow its footprint in the Commonwealth not only recognizes the strength of our manufacturing sector, but also reflects the skill of our workers, the quality of life in rural Virginia, and the competitiveness of our business climate.”
      – Governor Ralph Northam
    This announcement represents one of the largest capital investments in the history of Southwestern Virginia, and I am confident that this expansion will both prepare the NRV plant for continued success and solidify Volvo’s presence in Pulaski County for decades to come.” Volvo Trucks provides complete transport solutions for customers, offering a full range of medium to heavy duty trucks. Customer support is secured via a global network of 2,100 dealers and workshops in more than 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 15 countries across the globe. In 2018, more than 127,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment, and marine and industrial engines. The Group also provides solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks’ work is based on the core values of quality, safety, and environmental care. The Volvo Trucks facility in Pulaski County is its largest in the world, with 1.6 million square feet on nearly 300 acres and 3,500 employees. “Volvo’s historic investment in an additional facility and upgraded, state-of-the-art equipment at its Pulaski County operation signifies the plant’s future growth, and we are honored to further strengthen Virginia’s corporate partnership with Volvo Trucks North America,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “With its access to markets, robust workforce, and pro-business climate, the New River Valley is a hub for manufacturers from around the world. This investment will position Volvo’s NRV plant for long-term growth and is a testament to the Commonwealth’s competitive advantage.” “This investment will give our employees the tools they need to continue providing our customers the highest quality products,” said Franky Marchand, Vice President and General Manager of the NRV plant. “We’re very grateful to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Pulaski County, and the citizens in this community for their continued support of our business and our people. Creating more value-added processes through these investments is good for our employees, our plant, and our region.” The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County, the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval Commission, and Onward New River Valley to secure the expansion for Virginia. The Volvo Group will be eligible to receive post-performance MEI custom grant payments totaling up to $16.5 million over 10 years, based upon achieving its pledged net new job creation and investment commitments. New job creation will be on top of the baseline employment level of 3,219 in place when project negotiations began in 2018. The company is also eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. “The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors and the Economic Development Authority are most excited to partner with the state to comprehensively support Volvo Trucks and the exceptional men and women who work there with this monumental expansion project, and we are ever confident that their investment and job growth will go a long way to ensuring this company continues to operate and prosper here in our community,” said Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors Andy McCready.
    “This announcement is one of the largest capital investments in the history of Southwestern Virginia and it says a tremendous amount about the confidence and trust the Volvo Group has in the Commonwealth, in Pulaski County, in their dedicated workforce, and in the economic development professionals that helped make this project possible.” – Andy McCready
    “Volvo Trucks represents the largest private employer in the New River Valley, and I am proud that the Commission could support the company’s continued growth in Virginia,” said Senator Frank Ruff, Chairman of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “This monumental project will enable the company to add nearly 800 new jobs to its existing workforce, creating opportunities for citizens of Pulaski County and the region and further strengthening the Commonwealth’s position as a leader in automotive manufacturing. We thank Volvo for its commitment to Virginia and for being a key source of job creation and investment in our economy.” “The NRV assembly plant is Volvo Trucks’ largest manufacturing facility in the world, and the company’s decision to reinvest in this operation is a significant win for the region and for the Commonwealth,” said Delegate Nick Rush, Vice Chair of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “With support from our local, regional, and state economic development partners, the company has been able to grow in Pulaski County for decades, and we are confident that this major investment will ensure that Volvo Trucks remains a critical employer in the New River Valley for years to come.” “Volvo Trucks’ continued investment and creation of new jobs is a huge opportunity for the hard working people of Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley,” said Senator Benton Chafin. “I want to thank Volvo Trucks for their commitment to the region and seeing the value of reinvesting in the regional workforce and economy. Volvo Trucks is a critical community partner and with the creation of nearly 800 manufacturing jobs, their investment is another step forward in creating a more thriving and diverse regional economy.”
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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”
    Floyd

    Virginia’s New River Valley Claims Top Trending Mountain Destinations

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    Virginia’s New River Valley – Two counties in the NRV were selected as the “Top Trending Virginia Mountain Destinations 2019” by Blue Ridge Country Magazine.

    Both Floyd County and Montgomery County made it into the top five for the state of Virginia. Floyd County is quoted as “a haven of natural beauty renowned for small-town hospitality and for a vibrant, eclectic culture of music, arts, outdoor recreation and local foods, farms and spirits.” They highlight Montgomery County as “a perfect mid-Atlantic destination for getting outdoors while staying connected to town amenities.”

      1. Floyd County
      2. Roanoke County
      3. Montgomery County
      4. Albemarle County
      5. Culpeper County

    The magazine chose their top eight locations based on increases in travel spending from 2016 to 2017 according to the U.S. Travel Association. Once the top eight was identified from the data, the readers voted on their favorite/hope-to-visit locations.

    Virginia’s top five locations, make up a larger top 35 locations for the Blue Ridge Mountains. Click here to read more.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    broadband

    Giles County Receives Grant to Expand Broadband

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    Giles County, VA – Giles County receives grant from Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) to help bring broadband to the county.

    The request for broadband from the citizens of Giles County has not gone unheard. However, due to the rocky, mountain terrain, building the infrastructure to host a broadband network would be very challenging and costly, until now. Thanks to the grant from VATI, almost $600,000 of the cost to implement a broadband infrastructure will be offset. The VATI grant was specifically created to help service providers expand reliable broadband to more and more rural areas.

    The Center for Innovative Technology (CIT) has been working for the past year to identify which areas in the county have the biggest needs. They found that residents living and working in the outlying areas of the county have been the most disconnected. In these areas the topography is the most challenging and the population is less dense, which means more infrastructure is needed to reach those families. With the help of the current service provider, Gigabeam’s match grant of $266,000, the hope is that by next summer, the new expansion of broadband will be complete. This project will bring reliable broadband connection to more than 2,300 homes and 60 businesses in the west part of the county.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

    brewery

    Blacksburg’s Oldest Brewery Plans to Open Second Location

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    Montgomery County, VA – Bull & Bones, the longest running brewery in the region, is opening a second location on Peppers Ferry Road. Jon Coburn, owner, plans to remodel the former Blackstone Grill, with hopes of opening the first brewery in Christiansburg, in August. Coburn says they plan to brew the same beers as the Blacksburg location, however they will be adding in some experimental additions as well. Bull & Bones first opened their brewpub almost 10 years ago, and has continue to evolve its beer selection to meet the needs of the consumers. The new location is about half the size and once renovated will have the look and feel of a sports bar.They are also planning to hire between 60 and 70 workers, from managers to cooks and servers. While they will officially be the first brewery to open in Christiansburg, two others, Iron Tree Brewing Company and Blackbarrel Brewery, have already announced their plans to locate in the downtown area and right outside the town limits, respectively. The New River Valley continues to offer unlimited opportunities to thrive in agribusiness.
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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.” Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.
    information technology

    Block.one Unveils New Social Media Network

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    Recently, at an event in Washington, D.C., block.one CEO Brendan Blumer announced a new social media network built on blockchain technology.

    Block.one was established two years ago by Virginia Tech alum Dan Larimer, who leads the company’s Blacksburg office, and Blumer, who is based out of Hong Kong. The company focuses on creating blockchain software, which stores information across a large network to prevent hacking and increase transparency. Their new social media network, Voice, is built around the removal of secret algorithms that the company says fault traditional platforms. The blockchain technology will prevent fake users from invading the network.

    information technology

    Voice begins its protection and transparency from the start by actually verifying your account creation, a step many current platforms skip. The platform will allow users to receive tokens for likes and participation on the content they post, whether to their page or their engagement with other accounts. Users can then “spend” their tokens to increase the visibility of their post or “voice it”. With this strategy, the best content, as deemed by the people and not dictated by companies, will be seen. The platform has not officially launched, however users can sign up on the website for a pre-release beta platform.

    To learn more about blockchain and the launch of Voice (18:30), check out the video of the announcement.

    information technology

    If you are looking to join this innovative company in Virginia’s New River Valley, block.one is currently hiring for 27 positions at their Blacksburg location.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

    Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.