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Montgomery County Awarded Grant for Cleanroom

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New River Valley, VA – The Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) recently awarded more than $2.5 million in grants to 21 projects focused on creating workforce pipelines for targeted industries and supporting the cultivation of critical industry resources to attract and grow Virginia-based businesses.

Montgomery County in partnership with the City of Roanoke received a grant for $100,000 “to survey the regionals needs to identify and implement a pilot cleanroom space.” The press release also stated that “The pilot cleanroom space in this project will be utilized to test and promote a state-of-the-art modular cleanroom model.” Cleanrooms are crucial for research and development in the production of products like microchips, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. This asset in the region would build upon the strong innovative culture currently in the NRV.

Additionally, Radford University, in collaboration with the Commonwealth Cybersecurity Initiative Southwest Virginia and a coalition of Montgomery County, Pulaski County and the City of Radford was also awarded a grant for their “Developing IT and Cybersecurity Certification Pipeline (ITCCP) to Advance Cluster Growth” program. You can read more about that project here.

Read the full GO Virginia press release here.

Explore more about the innovative business culture in Virginia’s New River Valley 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.

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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.

Pembroke’s NanoSonic Awarded DOE Grant

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Giles County, VA – U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith recently announced that NanoSonic, Inc., located in Pembroke, was awarded a $1,150,000 U.S. Department of Energy grant for their project to develop hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

NanoSonic’s contributions to fields like chemistry and engineering have attracted prominent clients, including NASA and the Department of Defense. The DOE’s support reaffirms the value of NanoSonic’s work, positioning Virginia’s New River Valley as a stronghold for scientific innovation and energy development. This achievement is a proud reminder of the region’s vibrant future, where pioneering research and a collaborative spirit continue to drive progress.

Read U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith’s full press release here.

Learn more about advanced manufacturing in the NRV 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.

MELD Awarded $975 Million Air Force Contract

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Montgomery County, VA – MELD Manufacturing recently announced that they have been awarded a $975 million contract by the United States Air Force to support the Rapid Sustainment Office (RSO) in enhancing operational readiness of its deployed assets. MELD is among 67 companies awarded the contract by the RSO.

MELD’s innovative solid-state metal additive manufacturing process is at the heart of this partnership. With the ability to produce large-scale, flight-critical components, MELD delivers exceptional quality that meets the demanding standards of the aerospace industry. According to MELD’s press release “MELD is the only large scale, solid-state metal 3D printer chosen by the RSO and the only company with additive technology both invented and manufactured in the United States.”

MELD Manufacturing continues to push the boundaries of metal 3D printing. With this latest contract, MELD is poised to further its impact on the defense sector while advancing its commitment to disrupting traditional manufacturing processes.

Virginia’s New River Vally is proud to manufacture using the highest levels of technology and robotics. With a talented and loyal workforce, the NRV is a natural fit for advanced manufacturers looking to drive the future. Learn more about manufacturing in the NRV here.

Read MELD’s full press release here.

A complete list of the companies awarded the contracts can be found 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.

Inorganic Ventures Acquires PURE Analytical Laboratories

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Montgomery County, VA – IV Labs Inc., parent company of Inorganic Ventures, reported that they have acquired PURE Analytical Laboratories located in Pennsylvania.

According to the press release “Inorganic Ventures, a manufacturer of certified reference materials (CRMs), provides some of the highest levels of accuracy, certainty, and traceability, for quality control and analysis of impurities—along with a robust education and training program for scientists in the field. PURE produces ultra-high purity starting materials, while Inorganic Ventures uses the materials to formulate precise custom standards and produce precision custom materials.”

Combing these companies will help produce materials with higher purities than are currently available in the market and enable IV Labs to enhance their research and development of ultra-high purity products for emerging technologies. The acquisition will also reduce processing requirements in a wide range of industries that include electronics, transportation, pharmaceuticals, and food and beverage.

Virginia’s New River Valley is a place where pioneering businesses can thrive and grow. Learn why the NRV is a natural fit for expanding companies here.

Read IV Labs’ 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.

Skyphos Ranked as Top 5 Lab-On-A-Chip Startup

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Montgomery County, VA – StartUs Insights recently named Skyphos, based in Montgomery County, as one of the “Top 5 Lab-On-A-Chip startups impacting engineering.” StartUs Insights uses AI to find and analyze promising startups, technologies, and trends. They evaluated 90 Lab-on-a-Chip startups to identify the top solutions worldwide.

Lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technology condenses multiple laboratory functions into a single microchip. These chips, ranging from millimeters to a few centimeters in size, perform tests using tiny amounts of fluid, such as body fluids, cell solutions, or chemicals.

Skyphos has developed a 3D printing technology that allows researchers to modify designs on demand, significantly reducing development time and costs. Their patent-pending processes and materials have the potential to revolutionize the LOC industry and the medical field.

Read the article from StartUs Insights here.

With its innovative businesses, supportive community, strategic location, and access to skilled talent, it’s clear why pioneering companies like Skyphos choose to grow in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s simply a natural fit. Discover more about the trailblazing businesses of the NRV 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.

Virginia Tech Receives Grant for Additive Manufacturing Project

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that researchers at the Virginia Tech College of Engineering were awarded $2 million of a $72 million Department of Energy grant to innovate manufacturing and accelerate the deployment of wind and water energy technologies.

The project will focus on additive manufacturing techniques and applied materials that will help reduce the environmental footprint used in building wind turbine blades. The team will develop a new polymer composite material that is completely recyclable and 3D printable. According to the article “wind turbine blades are made at off-site production facilities using large molds that require long lead times. Once those blades are fabricated, they then take a long and costly journey to their often-remote destination by way of semi-truck.” The new printing technology will provide a way to produce the blades near the location of the wind turbine while eliminating the use of hazardous materials in the manufacturing process.

L.S. Randolph Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering Chris Williams, who is helping lead the team, said, “our proposed project is looking to dramatically reduce waste, completely eliminate all hazardous materials, and enable 3D printing of a completely recyclable wind turbine.”

Read the full article from Virginia Tech here.

Virginia’s New River Valley has a robust additive manufacturing industry and is trailblazing new technologies that will transform the future. Discover how the NRV is a natural fit for additive manufacturing and applied materials here.

Photo by Minku Kang on Unsplash


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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.

ESS Technologies to Increase Capacity and Create 27 New Jobs in Montgomery County

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ESS Technologies, Inc. to invest $1.6 million to increase capacity in Montgomery County, creating 27 new jobs

RICHMOND,VA — Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that ESS Technologies, Inc., a subsidiary of the Pacteon Group that specializes in complete packaging line design and equipment manufacturing, will invest $1.6 million to increase capacity and expand in Montgomery County. In January 2023, the company expanded in Giles County, adding an additional location to increase research and development, manufacturing, and office space. As part of this new expansion, ESS will consolidate its current facilities in Giles and Montgomery into one larger operation in Montgomery County, increasing the square footage to 40,000 square feet at the new location to increase production capacity. The project will create 27 new jobs.

“Companies like ESS Technologies, Inc. are a crucial component of the thriving supply chain and logistics ecosystem in Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Virginia provided the location, the robust workforce, and the business climate for ESS Technologies to expand and increase capacity at its Montgomery County location. I look forward to their continued success in Virginia.”

“Partners that reinvest in Virginia give a clear example that the Commonwealth is a great place to do business,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “I am proud that ESS Technologies, Inc. chose the Commonwealth as the location to base the future of their business. Virginia offers top-level infrastructure to help companies like ESS Technologies expand their business and create jobs for local citizens.”

“Pacteon is proud of the growth trajectory of ESS Technologies,” said Mike Odom, CEO of Pacteon Group. “We are excited to partner with Governor Youngkin and Montgomery County, Virginia, to secure the space and people needed to continue that path.”

“Montgomery County prides itself on being a great place to live, to work, and to play,” said Montgomery County Board of Supervisors Chair Mary Biggs. “One way we accomplish the quality of life we value in our community is by supporting both new and existing businesses. We are thrilled ESS Technologies recognized our commitment to and support of local industries by choosing Montgomery County as home for expanding their innovative business.”

“Congratulations to ESS Technologies on this exciting expansion announcement. As a business with a long history in Virginia’s New River Valley, we are pleased they have chosen to retain and increase jobs in the region,” said Katie Boswell, Executive Director of Onward New River Valley. “We look forward to supporting their continued growth and success in the NRV.”

“We are thrilled by their increased investment in the New River Valley,” said Senator David Suetterlein. “We are thrilled even more so by the 27 quality new jobs it will generate.”

“This is an exciting announcement for the New River Valley,” said Delegate Jason Ballard. “This $1.6 million investment will bring 27 good-paying jobs to my district in Montgomery County and will encourage future economic growth and investment in our communities. I look forward to continuing my work with Governor Youngkin and other stakeholders to bring more of this type of economic opportunity to our localities throughout the New River Valley.”

Founded in 1993, ESS Technologies specializes in complete packaging line design, equipment manufacturing, and integration for the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, cosmetic, and consumer packaging goods industries. The company has extensive experience in designing, building, and integrating automatic cartoners, case packers, robotic palletizers, and robotic systems. ESS Technologies has operated in the Town of Blacksburg in Montgomery County since 1993.

ESS has been engaged with the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) International Trade team since 2008 and is a 2023 graduate of the Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. VALET assists Virginia exporters that have firmly established domestic operations and are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Montgomery County Economic Development and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia and will support ESS Technologies’ job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.

Office of the Governor
Contact: Christian Martine
Email: Christian.Martinez@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Contact: Nicole Hansen
Email: nhansen@vedp.org

ESS Technologies, Inc.
Contact: Janet Darnley
Email: jdarnley@pacteon.com

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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.

Oransi Listed in Rolling Stone’s Best Air Purifiers List

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Radford, VA – Rolling Stone Magazine recently listed Oransi’s Mod Air Purifier as one of the best HEPA air purifiers. Oransi’s air purifier was ranked number 3 on their list as the most powerful.

According to the Rolling Stone article “Oransi says the Mod has been lab tested to remove 99.4% of the tiniest particles” and that “its filter also helps to remove allergens, mold, pet dander, and smoke”.

Oransi is a veteran-owned air purification company, that began operating in the City of Radford in 2021. The project brought significant investment and over 100 new jobs to the region. Oransi has established itself as a leading air purification company and is reshoring the manufacturing of its purifiers to the New River Valley. Oransi’s purifiers will serve a wide range of people, from general consumers to health professionals.

Read Rolling Stone’s full article here.

Learn more about why Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for Advanced Manufacturers 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 Receives Grant for NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster Scale-Up

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New River Valley, VA – WSLS Channel 10 recently reported that Governor Youngkin announced $1.9 million in GO Virginia grants for eight different programs. These projects help promote economic growth and workforce development throughout the commonwealth.

A New River Valley partnership comprised of the New River Valley Regional Commission, the Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement, and Onward NRV received close to $100,000 for the NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster Scale-Up project. According to the GO Virginia Region 2 press release, the NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster Scale-Up will “build upon the successful application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for a Tech Hubs designation” and will map “out assets and resources that could support ecosystem growth and transformation of the cluster.”

See the full list of projects here.

Read WSLS Channel 10’s full story here.

Read Go Virginia Region 2’s 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.