Fermata Recognized for Sustainabilty Innovation

Fermata Energy Recognized for Sustainability Innovation

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Montgomery County, VA – Fermata Energy, who has a Blacksburg-based Innovation Lab, recently reported that they were recognized as an honoree in Fast Company’s World Changing Ideas Awards Sustainability Category. According to Fermata’s press release, “the awards recognize innovation in products, concepts, companies and policies to make our world safer, cleaner, more sustainable and more equitable.”

Fermata was selected as an honoree based on their pilot program, Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) pilot at Girls Latin Apartments in Massachusetts. This groundbreaking initiative allows residents of an affordable housing complex to access electric vehicles that also serve as a power source for the building, helping to offset energy costs and promote energy independence in underserved communities.

Fermata Energy is a leading software platform services provider of intelligent Vehicle-to-Everything (V2X) bidirectional charging technology, including Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G), Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Building (V2B) solutions.

Companies like Fermata Energy understand that Virginia’s New River Valley is a region known for fostering cutting-edge research, workforce development, and economic growth. Plug into all that the NRV has to offer in our technology industry here.

Read Fermata’s full press release here.

Photo by Kindel Media.


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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.

NRV Small Cities

NRV Ranks Among Top 25 Best Performing Small Cities in the US

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New River Valley, VA – The Milken Institute recently released its “2025 Best Performing Cities: Mapping Economic Growth across the US” report, ranking the Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA, otherwise known as Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV), among the top 25 best-performing small cities in the U.S. This ranking highlights the NRV’s strong economic performance and growth potential.

The Best Performing Cities (BPC) index evaluated 403 metropolitan areas grouped into Tier 1 or Tier 2 cities. The BPC index focused on 13 key metrics, including job growth, high-tech industry expansion, and access to economic opportunities. These factors help capture trends and shifts in the US economic landscape.

As a Tier 2 community, the NRV has a medium sized growth potential, with a population generally smaller than that of a major metropolitan area but still offers a range of amenities and infrastructure – all at a lower cost of living compared to the larger, Tier 1 cities. This recognition reinforces the region’s status as a great place for businesses, workers, and families looking for opportunities without the high costs of big city living.

Explore the BPC rankings here.

Discover how Virginia’s New River Valley’s eclectic mix of small towns is a natural fit for big opportunities here.

The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization focused on accelerating progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, they bring together resources to develop blueprints for tackling some of the most critical global issues.

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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.

Virginia Tech MIT Online Program Ranks Top 5 Nationally

Virginia Tech MIT Online Program Ranks Top 5 Nationally

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that the university’s Master of Information Technology (MIT) program is ranked No. 4 nationally in the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Programs rankings, reinforcing the region’s reputation for cutting-edge education and workforce development. Virginia Tech continues to elevate Virginia’s New River Valley as a hub for innovation and excellence with its highly ranked programs.

The program, a collaboration between the College of Engineering and the Pamplin College of Business, has consistently earned top national rankings and was also recognized as the No. 2 online program for veterans.

Virginia Tech was ranked out of 97 different colleges and universities and selected based on their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence. Read about how the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Online Master’s in Information Technology Programs are ranked here.

Discover how Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for top-tier education and talent 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.

NRV Rises in Workforce Rankings

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) is gaining recognition across the country as a rising star among small metro areas for their loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. According to Area Development’s 2024 Leading Metro Locations report, the NRV (Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Radford MSA) climbed from #75 in 2023 to #59 nationally in 2024 in Prime Workforce Availability. This upward trajectory highlights the region’s growing appeal as a hub for skilled talent and economic opportunity.

According to Area Development, the report ranked “410 MSAs and metropolitan divisions across 24 economic and workforce indicators pulled from eight (8) data sets – each set containing a five-year change, a three-year change, and a one-year change indicator – originating from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census, and JobsEQ® by Chmura Economics & Analytics.” The article also states that “the strongest indicators of a metro’s economic health is the availability of a prime workforce.”

As businesses seek locations with strong talent potential, the NRV’s continued advancement in the Prime Workforce Availability rankings positions it as a premier choice for companies and professionals alike. The region’s blend of talent, affordability, and economic momentum make it a natural fit for growth and success. Discover more about the workforce found in Viriginia’s New River Valley here.

Read the full list of rankings here.

Read the methodology behind the report 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.”

NRV Second Fastest Growing Economy in Virginia

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley (Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA ) was Virginia’s second fastest growing economy in 2023 ( 3.7%), second only to Charlottesville (4.2%) according to the Old Dominion University’s State of the Commonwealth Report. This report highlights areas such as GDP growth, taxable sales, labor force, job growth, and income growth.

Onward NRV, the regional economic development organization for Virginia’s New River Valley, attributes the growth to the region’s ability to collaborate stating that “in a time when major cities typically dominate state-wide economic growth, the NRV’s performance serves as a testament that through collaboration and strategic investments, rural communities thrive and compete on both a statewide and national scale.”

Virginia’s New River Valley’s success contributes to Virginia’s broader achievements of being named CNBC’s Best State for Business and Business Facilities’ State of the Year. With its position as the second fastest-growing economy in the state, the NRV is paving the way for a prosperous future while reinforcing Virginia’s reputation as a national leader in business and economic development.

The region exemplifies how strategic focus, and collaboration has made this region a natural fit for growth and innovation. Discover more about Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Read Onward NRV’s full press release about the report’s results here.

Explore Old Dominion University’s State of the Commonwealth Report 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.

Montgomery County Ranks as a Top County

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Montgomery County, VA – Niche.com, a leading platform for evaluating schools, neighborhoods, and communities across the U.S., has recognized Montgomery County as a top county to live in 2024 with the following rankings:

These accolades highlight the county’s appeal for both individuals and families seeking an exceptional place to call home.

Based on rigorous analysis of dozens of public data sets alongside over 100 million reviews and survey responses from real people, Niche.com’s methodology ensures a comprehensive understanding of what makes a community truly stand out from the rest. Learn more about how the rankings are determined here.

Whether you’re drawn by the promise of top-tier education, the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, or the welcoming atmosphere of its communities, Montgomery County offers something for everyone. These recent rankings affirm what locals have long known: Montgomery County is a remarkable place to live, work, and thrive. Explore the opportunities available in Montgomery County here.

Read the full list of Best County to Live in Virginia here.

Read the full list of Best County for Families here.

Read the full list of Counties with the Best Public Schools in Virginia 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.

A professor and a student work together on a laptop in a classroom

Virginia Tech Honored with Federal Counterintelligence Award

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that they were honored with the Department of Defense’s 2023 Jack Donnelly Award for Excellence in Counterintelligence. This award highlights Virginia Tech’s exemplary security program and leadership in preventing foreign entities from compromising national security.

Virginia Tech was one of only five recipients among over 12,000 eligible organizations and marks their second time receiving the award. Virginia Tech has also twice received the prestigious James S. Cogswell Award for Outstanding Industrial Security. Earning both awards multiple times is a rare distinction among universities and underscores Virginia Tech’s dedication and exceptional contributions to national security efforts.

Read Virginia Tech’s full press release 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.

Close up of two hands using a wrench on a piece of equipment

NRV Companies Win Virginia Manufacturers Association Awards

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New River Valley, VA – The Virginia Manufacturers Association (VMA) recently honored excellence and innovation in manufacturing at their annual gala by celebrating the winners of the Virginia Manufacturing Cup. These awards showcase “the coolest things” made in Virginia and highlights the incredible work and diversity of the manufacturing sector in the Commonwealth. Virginia’s New River Valley was represented in two separate categories, Transportation Equipment and Industrial and Commercial Machinery.

According the VMA press release, Volvo Trucks North America won Gold in the Transportation Equipment category for “their all-new Volvo VNL, a new standard for trucking in North America.” The Volvo VNL has up to a 10% improvement of fuel efficiency, maximizes productivity and has been designed with the long-haul truck driver in mind. Volvo Trucks North America is in Dublin.

MELD Manufacturing, located in Christiansburg, won Bronze in the Industrial and Commercial Machinery category for their MELD Machine, K2. This machine is “designed for the production of and repair of large parts, boasting an impressive cubic solid space along with extreme material flexibility.”

These companies continue to showcase how the NRV’s advanced manufacturing sector is built on innovation and high levels of technology. Discover more here.

See the full list of winners 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.

Lane Stadium Ranks Top 5 Toughest Places to Play

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Montgomery County, VA – Lane Stadium at Virginia Tech was recently ranked as one of the top five toughest stadiums to play in college football by Bruce Feldman in The Athletic article “What is college football’s toughest stadium to play in?”. The Athletic, the sports journalism department of the New York Times, stated that “Lane Stadium comes alive like no other venue” and the stadium can be “ominous”.

Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium is known for its electric opening, “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, that has become synonymous with Hokie pride. The Hokies’ entrance is so impactful that it has been measured on a seismograph.

Read The Athletic article here.

Learn more about the Virginia Tech Hokies 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.

Forbes Ranks Radford University’s GIS Among Best of 2024

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Radford, VA – Forbes recently ranked Radford University’s geographic information systems (GIS) third on its list of Best GIS Certificates Online of 2024. GIS uses state-of-the-art technology to do computer-based mapping. According to Forbes, “well-paying GIS jobs can be found in all sorts of industries, including business, urban planning, agriculture, forestry, transportation, science and the military.”

Radford University’s geospatial intelligence online certification program (GEOINT) was selected by Forbes because it “aligned with national standards and the core competencies set by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation. The program caters to working professionals and has no prerequisites beyond a high school diploma.” Forbes continues to say that “Radford’s GEOINT program consists of five self-paced courses. You have eight weeks to finish each course but can finish in as quickly as six months. The flexible, asynchronous coursework is delivered through competency-based instruction, and students practice their skills through virtual remote labs.”

Radford University’s GEOINT certification is available through their IMPACT lab. Learn more about the program here.

Read Forbes’ list of Best GIS Certificates Online of 2024 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.