Grucci to Expand and Create 45 Jobs in Pulaski County

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

World-Renowned Fireworks Display Company and Manufacturer to invest $5.5 million, create 45 jobs in Pulaski County

RICHMOND—Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci, the sixth-generation family business and worldwide fireworks design and performance company and manufacturer of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices for the U.S. military, will invest $5.5 million to expand its assembly, storage, and distribution operations to Pulaski County. The company will occupy the former Koinonia Tapes and Foams 30,000-square-foot facility in ShaeDawn Industrial Park in proximity to its manufacturing operation at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant in Montgomery County. Virginia successfully competed with New York for the project, which will create 45 new jobs.

“Magnificent displays of fireworks have brought generations of families together for more than a century because of pyrotechnics leaders like the Grucci family,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The Commonwealth is a strategic gateway to markets served by a robust workforce, and we thank Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci for recognizing these advantages and expanding their Virginia footprint into Pulaski County.”

“We are proud to have this historic and world-renowned company expand its assembly, storage, and distribution operations in Pulaski County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “In addition to fireworks displays that captivate millions around the globe, the Gruccis also manufacture pyrotechnic training devices for the U.S. military that prepare our troops. Virginia’s combination of connectivity, infrastructure, and talent provide the crucial elements for Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci to thrive, and we look forward to supporting the company’s continued success in the Commonwealth.”

“Virginia offers our family and employees great incentives of viability, stability, and a path to expand and grow our business that is second to none,” said Felix Grucci, CEO of Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci Inc. “This long-term investment and expansion to Pulaski is a testament to our continued commitment to the state of Virginia, the counties of Pulaski and Montgomery, and our employees. My son, Christopher, and his wife, Lemonia, both working within the family business representing the sixth generation, made a similar commitment by moving from New York to become residents of Virginia.”

“We love that Grucci is a sixth-generation family-oriented company, and we are very excited and honored to have them officially join our family of businesses here in Pulaski County,” said Laura Walters, Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors. “This project took a tremendous amount of effort to compete for and win, and I couldn’t be more grateful to our economic development team, our board, the EDA, VEDP, our state representatives, and Governor Youngkin for helping bring this world-renowned name in pyrotechnics to our community.”

“Grucci is an industry leader that is thriving as part of the advanced manufacturing sector in Virginia’s New River Valley,” said Katie Boswell, Executive Director of Onward New River Valley. “We are pleased that they have decided to continue their growth in our region with this exciting announcement in Pulaski County.”

“I’m thrilled to announce more investment in our region by a great multi-generational family company such as Grucci,” said Senator Travis Hackworth. “Working with Governor Youngkin, we have been able to make our region more attractive to new business and job investments. I look forward to welcoming Grucci to our region and am excited about the jobs they will create for Pulaski!”

Fireworks by Grucci is a sixth-generation, family owned-and-operated Fireworks Performance Company with its primary corporate studio in Bellport, New York. Known as “America’s First Family of Fireworks”, the Gruccis have transformed the night skies to the delight of millions across the globe since 1850. The company is world-renowned for pyrotechnic artistry, scientific innovation, and old-fashioned values. The company’s signature performances include the official celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the National Anthem “Star Spangled Spectacular” in Baltimore, eight U.S. Presidential Inaugurations, the Olympic Games in Beijing, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and Lake Placid, and commemorations such as the Centennial of the Statue of Liberty. Fireworks by Grucci is also an 11-time Guinness World Record Holder.

Phil Grucci, fifth generation and current CEO, diversified their family business in 1989 by participating in a solicited competition and receiving an award to manufacture a series of Department of Defense pyrotechnic simulators. These simulators are designed as training devices that simulate the distinctive whistle and bang of an incoming mortar round, or the pull, throw, and bang of a hand grenade. Due to the expanded success of this military venture, the family officially founded a training device manufacturing business in 1997 based in Montgomery County, where it leases 400 acres at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $212,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pulaski County with the project. Fireworks by Grucci is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

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

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

Fireworks by Grucci
MaDonna Overstreet
Email: moverstreet@grucci.com

###

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.

TechLab is Scaling up NRV Manufacturing

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – Valley Business FRONT recently did a cover story on TechLab, who has locations in both the City of Radford and Montgomery County. The story highlighted TechLab’s recent merger with Nordic company SSI Diagnostica.

TechLab’s specialty is in rapid single use tests that enable health care providers to identify issues more effectively. TechLab currently produces devices for intestinal diagnostics and, with the merger, will add manufacturing respiratory rapid devices to their Radford facilities. This will expand their product offerings and open new doors for a larger client base.

The merger highlights the thriving and growing presence of international companies in the New River Valley. COO of TechLab Rob Day said, “it reinforces the idea that you can perform high tech manufacturing in southwest Virginia.”

TechLab will become a part of an international group of businesses that help over eighty million patients. They anticipate adding up to fifty jobs in the NRV over the next three years ranging from research and development, quality control, administration, to manufacturing.

Read the full Valley Business FRONT article here.

The NRV is a natural fit for any business. From manufacturing to technology, the NRV has both a small-town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative, and business-friendly culture. Find out how your company can become a part of the business 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.

VT Joins Northeast University Semiconductor Network

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that they have joined the Northeast University Semiconductor Network formed by Micron Technology Inc. The Northeast University Semiconductor Network was established to focus on developing a pipeline of talent in the semiconductor industry.

The Northeast University Semiconductor Network members were selected based on their strong engineering programs and other STEM degrees. The collaboration of 21 universities spans seven states and brings together thousands of technology students with access to state-of-the-art facilities.

Virginia Tech is looking forward to working with Micron and the other members of the network. Virginia Tech President Tim Sands said, “Innovative partnerships among institutions of higher education and industry will be essential to meeting the needs of the national semiconductor industry and memory manufacturing.”

The Northeast University Semiconductor Network hopes to combine traditional and non-traditional access for individuals to enter the semiconductor workforce.

Read more about the Northeast University Semiconductor Network here.

Discover more about Montgomery County, a community of the New River Valley here.

The NRV produces some of the most in-demand IT professionals in the country. Home to several world-class colleges and universities, the NRV has a natural talent pipeline that feeds both the manufacturing and tech industries. Learn more about living and working in the NRVhere.


Photo by Jeremy Waterhouse


###

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.

Patrick Enterprises Corporation Plans Expansion

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Giles County, VA – Patrick Enterprises Corporation is planning an expansion to meet the needs of future projects according to a recent press release from Giles County. Patrick Enterprises is a custom metal fabrication company in Pembroke that is celebrating its fortieth year in business in 2023. 95% of the company’s current 25 employees have been working at Patrick Enterprises for over 10 years.

Patrick Enterprises is planning to invest in new machinery and technology which will spur on the need for an additional five positions this spring and another 25 positions in the future. One of the reasons for this upcoming investment is the company’s partnership with Trova Commercial Vehicles in Pulaski County to manufacture components for Trova CV’s new products. Patrick Enterprises believes that working with the startup company will bring new opportunities for employment and growth. They are excited about the future as they expand their products and facilities.

Watch a video about Patrick Enterprises Corporation here.

Learn more about Giles County, a community 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.

Inmotion Recognized as One of Top Virginia Employers for Internships

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Inmotion received an award for Top Virginia Employers for Interns in 2022. This inaugural award was a collaboration between The Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP), the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce . The award recognized 32 recipients who were selected for their work-based learning opportunities.

Interns at Inmotion ‘get immersed in real role activities they would actually see in their careers’.

The recipients’ programs were picked based on a variety of factors, including “a minimum 8-13 week-long internship; exposure to senior leadership, structured mentorship programs, and team lunches, social events and learning opportunities”.

Review the full list of award recipients here.

Does your company have interns for the summer? Enroll them in the NRV Experience program hosted by Onward NRV. The seven-week program features a series of community engagements, professional development, and networking opportunities for your summer interns. These events connect them with other interns in the region while showcasing lifestyle amenities the New River Valley has to offer. Find out why you should enroll your interns with the NRV Experience 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.

Oransi to Manufacture Air Filters in Radford

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Radford, VA – The Chief Executive Group recently reported that Oransi Inc., an NRV manufacturing company, is working to shift all manufacturing from China to their Radford location. This will mean adding an additional 100 new employees to assemble and engineer the filters.

The article quotes Peter Mann, CEO of Oransi, as saying this about the benefits of locating in the New River Valley:

“Finding talent in the ‘electric motor hub’ won’t be an issue. We are near Virginia Tech and there are a few other electric motor companies in the area, so there is a lot of knowledge here.”

Oransi has established itself as a leading air purification company and has become one of the fastest growing businesses in America. It hopes to manufacture a range of purifiers in the New River Valley that will serve general consumers to health professionals.

Read the article detailing Oransi’s manufacturing plans here.

Explore another recent article about Oransi from Virginia Business magazine here.

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley 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.

Homegrown NRV Companies Highlighted in Virginia Economic Review

Homegrown NRV Companies Highlighted in Virginia Economic Review

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

New River Valley, VA – Companies that were founded in Virginia’s New River Valley and continue to flourish in the region were highlighted in a recent issue of the Virginia Economic Review. The Q4 2022 issue focused on homegrown Virginia companies throughout the Commonwealth.

Here is a list of the NRV companies highlighted in this issue:

The New River Valley has many advantages for starting and growing your business. It has an innovative business community and access to a loyal, highly skilled workforce. It is affordable with a low cost of living. The strategic location with easy access to I-81 and I-77 makes travel and distribution convenient.

Explore all the NRV’s business advantages here.

Read the full “State of Success” issue of the Virginia Economic Review 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.

Giles County Awarded Nearly $400,000 for Site Development

Giles County Awarded Nearly $400,000 for Site Development

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Giles County, VA – In January 2023, Giles County was awarded a $387,865 grant from the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) for site development. The funds will be used to continue the development of Wheatland EcoPark. Wheatland EcoPark is a 130-acre industrial park located adjacent to US-460.

Wheatland EcoPark was one of 21 Virginia sites to receive funding from VBRSP. VBRSP is a discretionary program that is run by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). Its purpose is “to promote development and characterization of sites to enhance the Commonwealth’s infrastructure and promote its competitive business environment.” A total of $90 million in grants were awarded throughout the Commonwealth.

Read the full press release announcing the Fiscal Year 2023 VBRSP recipients here.

Learn more about the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program here.

Explore Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

Browse available sites and buildings 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.

Moog Expands International Sales with VALET Graduation

Moog Expands International Sales with VALET Graduation

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Moog was one of ten companies who recently graduated from the Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program run by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). This two-year program is designed to help businesses throughout the Commonwealth grow their international exports.

According to VEDP, “[p]rogram benefits include executive training, international sales plan development, educational events and customized research. The VALET program generates an average increase in international sales of 59% for participating companies.”

Read the press release announcing Moog’s graduation from the VALET program here.

Learn more about the VALET program here.

Explore companies across Virginia’s New River Valley 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.

H&V to Create 25 Jobs in Floyd County

Hollingsworth & Vose to Expand and Create 25 Jobs in Floyd County

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Global Advanced Materials Manufacturer to invest $40.2 million, create 25 jobs in Floyd County

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Hollingsworth & Vose (H&V), a global manufacturer of advanced materials used in filtration, battery, and industrial applications, will invest $40.2 million to expand its operation in Floyd County. The company will add over 28,000 square feet to its facility at 365 Christiansburg Pike Northeast to accommodate new production equipment to meet increased demand. Virginia successfully competed with Georgia for the project, which will create 25 new jobs.

“Hollingsworth & Vose has generated positive economic impact and job opportunities in Floyd County for more than four decades, and this significant investment further solidifies the company’s commitment to Virginia,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “Businesses with a long history of expansion in the Commonwealth offer powerful testimonials on why a Virginia location is a foundation for success, and we look forward to a continued partnership with H&V.”

“Hollingsworth & Vose has played a role in the success of Virginia’s advanced materials industry over the past 46 years, and we are thrilled to support this important corporate partner’s expansion in Floyd County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “The company’s continued investment is a strong testament to the New River Valley’s strategic location and business-friendly environment, and we thank H&V for creating high-quality jobs in Floyd County.”

”[Hollingsworth & Vose]’s continued investment is a strong testament to the New River Valley’s strategic location and business-friendly environment, and we thank H&V for creating high-quality jobs in Floyd County.”
– Caren Merrick, Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade

“We’ve been a part of the Floyd, Virginia community since 1976. This facility is essential to serving both our global and domestic customers,” said Josh Ayer, CEO of H&V. “We chose Virginia for this expansion because of its positive business environment and strong support from the Commonwealth of Virginia and Floyd County.”

“We’ve been a part of the Floyd, Virginia community since 1976. This facility is essential to serving both our global and domestic customers. We chose Virginia for this expansion because of its positive business environment and strong support from the Commonwealth of Virginia and Floyd County.”
– Josh Ayer, Hollingsworth & Vose CEO

“We are delighted to continue to support Hollingsworth & Vose’s growth in Floyd County. Their new investment is over three times bigger than the largest private investment in our county’s 191-year history,” said Joe Turman, Chairman of the Floyd County Board of Supervisors.

“The Hollingsworth & Vose expansion will provide crucial jobs for our Floyd families and enable us to keep more of our families working here at home,” said Delegate Marie March. “We are a hard-working community and believe that this company understands the loyalty and dedication that workers here in SWVA bring to their business. I happily welcome this investment and expansion to our economy. Private enterprise ventures always reward and benefit our local community.”

With incorporation dating back to 1892 and headquartered in East Walpole, Massachusetts, H&V’s advanced materials contribute to a cleaner world through products that provide clean air, clean liquids, and energy storage. The company has been family-owned for seven generations. In 1976, H&V established its first Virginia facility in Floyd County and employs over 200 workers.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Floyd County to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $558,700 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Floyd County with the project.

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.