NRV Leaders Listed in 4th Annual Virginia 500 By Virginia Business

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – Four leaders across the New River Valley were recently listed in the 4th annual “Virginia 500 – The 2023-24 Power List” published by Virginia Business Magazine. With a long tradition of leadership in the Commonwealth, Virginia Business Magazine created the Power List “to be an insightful and helpful resource on leaders in Virginia”. Read more about how Virginia Business created the list here.

The NRV leaders that made the Virginia 500 are:

  • Brent Pry | Sports | Football Head Coach, Virginia Tech
  • Tim Sands | Education | President, Virginia Tech
  • Koen Knippenberg | Manufacturing | Executive Vice President and General Manager, Volvo Group Trucks Operations North America
  • Elizabeth McClanahan | Nonprofits | Chief Executive Officer, Virginia Tech Foundation

Learn more about the leaders, industries, and communities in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

###
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.

Pulaski County Focuses on Green Manufacturing

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Pulaski County, VA – Cardinal News recently published an article on how Pulaski County is making “an effort to market itself as a green, ‘solar friendly’ locality”. The article said that the county’s comprehensive plan includes a policy that “supports sustainable building practices, energy efficiency, and renewable energy development.”

The county’s landfill has a methane conversion plant that generates electricity as well as Appalachian Power’s Claytor Dam which also generates renewable energy. More recently, Pulaski’s solar power program has been designated one of three Virginia locations to receive a gold designation from the U.S. Department of Energy-funded SolSmart program. The county is also looking into a wind farm.

As new companies find homes in Pulaski County, this vision is becoming a reality. Start-up indoor agriculture technology company Vegg, Inc. is working to create a carbon neutral agriculture system. Other Pulaski County businesses mentioned in the article include carbon capture company MOVA Technologies; VOLVO, who operates their facilities on renewable energy and has added electric trucks; electric commercial vehicles builder TROVA; vertical farmer Red Sun Farms; and Camrett Logistics, who is working to become a leading “green third-party supply chain expert”.

According to the article, Pulaski County Administrator Jonathan Sweet said that they have “completely shifted focus” and are “really trying to advance renewables in the county.”

Read the full article here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is pioneering new technologies and green manufacturing that will impact generations to come. Discover how your business can be a trailblazer that advances sustainability in the NRV here.


Photo by Pixabay

###

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 Manufacturer Partners with Virginia Tech

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Businesses in the New River Valley have a unique opportunity to partner with world – class universities and colleges like Virginia Tech, Radford University and New River Community College. Recently Virginia Tech reported that some of their graduate students in the Pamplin College of Business have been working with NRV manufacturer Inorganic Ventures.

This unique partnership enabled students to gain real world knowledge while the company had access to a team that can work on solutions to targeted problems within their company. Inorganic Ventures gave students access to data sets, and by the end of the project the students developed and delivered a product that will greatly enhance Inorganic Ventures’ business strategy.

Inorganic Ventures is located in Christiansburg and manufactures certified reference materials in Virginia’s New River Valley region. Their location in the NRV allows them access to research teams and technology from the surrounding universities that they would normally not have.

Read more about Inorganic Ventures’ partnership with Virginia Tech here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is a growing technology hub that offers an abundance of resources for manufacturing, technology, and agriculture. Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley is a great place to do business here.

###

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.

Camrett Logistics to Expand and Create 58 New Jobs In Pulaski County

/1 Comment/in , , , , /by

Third-Party Logistics Services Provider to Expand in Virginia

Camrett Logistics to expand capacity in Pulaski County, creating 58 new jobs

RICHMOND, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Camrett Logistics, a full-service third-party logistics (3PL) company headquartered in Wytheville, will invest over $2 million to expand capacity in Pulaski County. The investment in Dublin will include new construction, renovating existing space, and the purchase of new forklifts and new 100% electric trucks. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia for the project, which will create 58 new jobs.

“Homegrown Virginia businesses like Camrett Logistics keep the Commonwealth’s economy on the move,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “With this expansion and modernization, Camrett will strengthen its operations and Virginia’s supply chain industry ecosystem, securing continued longevity for years to come.”

“Homegrown Virginia businesses like Camrett Logistics keep the Commonwealth’s economy on the move. “With this expansion and modernization, Camrett will strengthen its operations and Virginia’s supply chain industry ecosystem, securing continued longevity for years to come.” – Governor Glenn Youngkin

“Camrett Logistics has stimulated economic growth in Southwest Virginia for nearly three decades, and we are proud to support its continued success,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “Businesses rely on 3PL services like Camrett’s to not only expand their reach and customer base, and to keep products moving efficiently throughout the supply chain. We are thrilled that Camrett Logistics is doubling down on its long-term commitment to Virginia with this expansion.”

“Camrett Logistics is a leader in providing world-class supply chain services every day in Southwest Virginia, and our growth is because of our great employees/family members, customers, and partners,” said Cameron Peel, President. “This long overdue expansion will help revitalize an iconic World War II facility into a multi-use warehouse and usher the company into its new era as green supply chain experts. With four electric trucks, two electric spotters, a brand-new electric forklift fleet, and motion sensor-activated LED warehouse lights, we are focused on sustainability, and the future, for the generations to come.”

“Camrett Logistics is a leader in providing world-class supply chain services every day in Southwest Virginia, and our growth is because of our great employees/family members, customers, and partners. This long overdue expansion will help revitalize an iconic World War II facility into a multi-use warehouse and usher the company into its new era as green supply chain experts. With four electric trucks, two electric spotters, a brand-new electric forklift fleet, and motion sensor-activated LED warehouse lights, we are focused on sustainability, and the future, for the generations to come.” – Cameron Peel, Camrett Logistics President

“Camrett Logistics has been a strong corporate partner for more than 20 years, and their overall mission, along with this expansion project, is perfectly aligned with Pulaski County’s triple bottom line approach to governance and will further grow our climate-smart cluster of businesses,” stated Laura Walters, Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors. “Camrett has meant so much to the community as an employer, an investor, and as a leader, and we are confident this expansion and their strategic investments in climate-smart solutions will continue to enlarge and support Pulaski County’s green-tech hub and the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.”

“Camrett Logistics is a trusted and long-term partner in our Dublin Industrial Park. Our Park was established to provide these types of opportunities for our clients while supporting our citizens through future growth,” said Dublin Mayor Benny Skeens. “The partnership with Camrett, and their investments in our Park, has made our support and investment uncomplicated. This project has been part of an ongoing effort to partner with Pulaski County, VEDP, and Camrett to support area business and bring good jobs to Dublin. We are very grateful for the efforts of Governor Youngkin in bringing these jobs to the Town of Dublin, Pulaski County, and Virginia.”

“The expansion of Camrett Logistics in Pulaski County will contribute to economic growth in Virginia’s New River Valley,” said Katie Boswell, Executive Director of Onward New River Valley. “We congratulate Camrett Logistics on this exciting announcement and look forward to their continued success in our region.”

“Camrett Logistics’ decision to expand in Pulaski County showcases the enduring strength of Virginia’s workforce and business environment and underscores the potential of our region,” said Senator Travis Hackworth. “I’m proud to welcome them and continue finding more ways to work with Governor Youngkin to create more opportunities for life, recreation, and business in Southwest Virginia.”

Camrett Logistics has been providing warehouse and 3PL services in Southwest Virginia since its founding in 1995. Currently the company operates 11 facilities totaling 1.8 million square feet in West Virginia and Virginia, including locations along the I-81 corridor in Atkins, Rural Retreat, Wytheville, Dublin, and Radford, Virginia.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County and the Town of Dublin to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $230,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pulaski County with the project. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

Office of the Governor
Contact: Macaulay Porter
Email: Macaulay.Porter@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Suzanne Clark
Email: sclark@vedp.org

Camrett Logistics
Contact: Cameron Peel
Email: cameron.peel@camrett.com

Read the Governor’s press release here.

###
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.

Innovative Startups Find Opportunities in the NRV

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) is the perfect location for businesses to flourish. It’s not hard to see why many startup businesses choose to be part of the economic landscape in the NRV. With its easy access to talent, strategic location, and an innovative businesses community, the NRV is a natural fit for any business.

Several NRV startups are innovating in different sectors across the region.

  • Good Food Groups, LLC located in Pulaski County seeks to manufacture functional foods that contain a substance that helps individuals maintain weight, build muscle, and lose fat. They were recently selected to participate in the RAMP program that gives them access to regional resources and support. Learn more here.
  • MacroVation, LLC also located in Pulaski County designs sustainable biomaterials such as additives that rend plastics biodegradable after use and 3D printable materials from seaweed to manufacture medical devices. MacroVation was also selected to be part of the RAMP program.
  • Fermi Energy in Montgomery County is developing electric vehicle batteries that would help solve supply chain issues of hard-to-get materials like cobalt and nickel. Their goal is to create a battery that would come from locally sourced materials. Through Virginia Tech, they won $2.9 million in grant money from the U.S Department of Energy. Read the full story of them in the Cardinal News here.
  • Vegg Inc. has also found a home in Pulaski County. They are introducing novel solutions for indoor farming by repurposing old school buildings for vertical farming companies. WSLS recently featured a story on them. You can watch the story here.
  • Cowden Technologies in Montgomery County is automating the logistical requirements of uncrewed systems. This is a system that uses robotics to support the drone ecosystem. Cowden Technologies was recently accepted into the NVIDIA Inception program that will give them access to cutting edge technology, venture capitalists, and technical resources. Read the press release here.
  • MOVA Technologies in Pulaski County uses air capture technology for air purification and air pollution control. They recently closed on a $2 million seed funding round that will help with the organization’s growth. Read the full MOVA press release here.

Find out how your business can become a part of this innovative landscape in the NRV here.

###

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.

Four NRV Businesses Named Best Employers in Virginia by Forbes

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – Forbes recently released their 5th annual list of America’s Best Employers by State. Several New River Valley (NRV) companies made the list for Virginia. Forbes surveyed 70,000 workers in all 50 states in partnership with research firm Statisa. The survey covered questions such as working conditions, company image, potential for development, compensation packages, diversity, and more. Virginia had 90 companies selected as America’s Best Employers.

The NRV companies are:

Read the full list here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is the perfect location to let your business flourish. The area is affordable, innovative, and enjoyable. The NRV has easy access to talent, a strategic location, and an innovative business community. Discover why the NRV is a natural fit for your business here.

###

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.

MOVA Technologies Opens R & D Facility in Pulaski

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Pulaski County, VA – The Patriot recently reported that MOVA Technologies has opened a Research & Development facility in the Town of Pulaski. According to MOVA’s website, they are a “ClimateTech company specializing in air-capture technology applying sustainable, circular principles to selectively capture and harvest contaminants as valuable byproducts that can be sold and reused.”

The Research & Development (R & D) facility will allow for enhanced production and design of MOVA’s state-of-the-art pollutant capture technology.

MOVA CEO John Schott said, “We’re researching selective air filtration technology so that we can target a specific contaminant for capture and harvesting … so that it can be redeployed as a resource.”

MOVA anticipates expanding their current R & D workforce and building a bigger facility in the next few years.

Read the full article here.

Discover more about Pulaski County here.

photo by William Paine of The Patriot

###

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 Printworks Featured in Valley Business FRONT

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – MELD Printworks, a spin off of MELD Manufacturing Corporation, was recently featured in a July 2023 Valley Business FRONT article. MELD Printworks “utilizes the award-winning, patented MELD® process to print 3D components for multiple industries in various alloys, delivering high value parts printed and machined in aluminum, titanium, and copper.” The article highlighted MELD Printworks facility in Christiansburg and the advantage that they have with access to local higher education institutes.

MELD Printworks’ prime location in the New River Valley allows them to develop relationships with Virginia Tech and New River Community College that will help formalize curriculums that will ensure a supply of talent for the company.

The newly spun-off company is also stepping in to fill a much-needed role due to supply chain issues in the forging and casting market. They are uniquely positioned to provide resources and materials at a much faster pace because of their additive manufacturing technology.

Read the full Valley Business FRONT article here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is proud to manufacture using the highest levels of technology and robotics. The NRV is a natural fit for anyone looking for a place to provide manufacturing services. Discover the business advantages of the NRV here.

###

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.

Two NRV Companies Graduate from VALET Trade Accelerator Program

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Two companies from Virginia’s New River Valley recently graduated from the Virginia’s Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program held by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). VALET is a two-year international business initiative that was established to help support and provide education to Virginia companies interested in increasing their international exports.

In a recent press release, Governor Glen Youngkin announced that ESS Technologies and MELD Manufacturing Corporation , both of Montgomery County, were among the 11 companies that graduated from the VALET program in 2023.

Governor Youngkin said this about the VALET program:

“International trade is a key component of advancing economic growth and prosperity in Virginia, and the VALET program is a vehicle that provides the tools and resources for our existing businesses to expand into the global marketplace. We congratulate these Virginia companies on taking proactive steps to grow international sales and look forward to their future success.”

Read the full press release here.

Learn more about VEDP’s VALET program here.

Learn about the NRV businesses who have participated in the VALET program here.

###

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.

VT Led Coalition Receives GO Virginia Grant

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that they received a GO Virginia Grant for the Automated-Connected-Electrified (ACE) coalition. The coalition, which is led by Virginia Tech, was awarded $500,000 in state aid and $251,300 in matching non-state funding. According to the article, the resources will be used “to advance Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing, transportation, and autonomous vehicles sector by scaling up the talent pipeline to train and retain workers.”

The ACE partnership includes companies like Torc Robotics and Volvo as well as community leaders and higher education partners. With this collaboration, the expectation is that the program will fill much needed workforce gaps in the manufacturing sector and allow companies to have an education platform that will fit their requirements.

The grant will help the team to develop hands on training for the skills necessary to be successful in a manufacturing landscape that uses smart technology to enhance the industrial process.

Read the full article here.

Virginia’s New River Valley offers outstanding educational opportunities, with world-class universities and colleges throughout the region. This creates a natural pipeline of talent for any company that chooses to do business in the NRV. Explore all the NRV has to offer here.

###
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.