Aeroprobe Featured in Virginia Economic Review

Three NRV Businesses Named Best Places to Work in VA

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by
Montgomery County, VA – According to Virginia Business Magazine, Modea, Aeroprobe and Community Housing Partners (CHP) are some of the of the best places to work in Virginia. The three companies were featured in the magazine’s 12th Annual Best Places to Work in Virginia List.

Modea and Aeroprobe were both featured on the “Small Employers” (up to 99 U.S. employees) list, while CHP was featured on the “Large Employers” (over 250 U.S. employees) category.

Virginia Business worked with Best Companies Group out of Pennsylvania to compile the list. Employers were evaluated on categories such as number of paid holidays, retirement benefits, diversity training, and telecommuting options for employees. After evaluating the employers and compiling a list of the top 100 in the Commonwealth, Virginia Business then divided the list into categories for large, medium, and small employers.

See all the companies on the 2022 Best Places to Work in Virginia list here.

Learn more about the information technology industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities 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.
Floyd Regional Commerce Center

Floyd County Receives Nearly $1 Million for Site Development

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Floyd County, VA– U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine announced $971,639 in federal funding from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) awarded to the Economic Development Authority of Floyd County to develop the Floyd Regional Commerce Center.

The funds will be used to construct an access road, an industrial cul-de-sac, and a pedestrian and bike path that will stimulate economic growth and support the creation of an estimated 130 new jobs in the region.

The press release sent from Senator Tim Kaine’s office garnered praise for Floyd County from both senators. “We’re pleased to see Floyd County receive this additional federal resource to finish construction of a new access road,” said the Senators. “This funding will create good-paying jobs and bolster economic development in the region.”

The funding is in addition to the more than $1 million in federal assistance that Senators Warner and Kaine announced in September 2017.

Here is more detailed information about the Floyd Regional Commerce Center:

PROPERTY OVERVIEW:

  • Floyd Regional Commerce Center is a 169-acre, publicly-owned industrial park located in Floyd, VA (Floyd County)
  • Phase II is 51-acre site and can accommodate a 137,000 SF building
  • Major utilities available to the site include water (8″ water line), waste water (8″ gravity feed line), electric (100 MW substation onsite), and broadband (redundant fiber with multi-gigabyte service)
  • Floyd Regional Commerce Center is 20.3 miles from I-81 Exit 114 via VA Route 8
  • Close proximity to colleges: Radford University (35 mins.), Virginia Tech (40 mins.), New River Community College (45 mins.)
  • Total population within a 60-minute commute: 570,879 people
###

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 Commerce Park Wins Grant for Site Development

NRV Commerce Park Wins Grant for Site Development

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by

Pulaski County, VA – New River Valley Commerce Park recently won a $300,000 grant for site development. The grant was awarded to Pulaski County through VEDP’s Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP). The purpose of this program is to “identify, assess, and improve the readiness of potential industrial sites, which must contain a minimum of 100 contiguous, developable acres.”

Here is additional information about VBRSP from the press release about the grants:

“The program has two components: 1) site characterization – to assess and designate a site’s level of development, and 2) site development – to further develop a pool of potential sites across the Commonwealth. Localities can apply for grants to assist with the costs associated with the initial assessment and the development required to upgrade a particular site.”

Read the full press release about the 2022 VBRSP grant award winners here.

Learn more about NRV Commerce Park and other available sites 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.

Phoenix Hardwoods to Expand and Create 8 Jobs in Floyd County

/0 Comments/in , , /by

~Artisan furniture manufacturer expands production, opens storefront in historic heart of the Town of Floyd~

RICHMOND – Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Phoenix Hardwoods, Inc., an artisan manufacturer of high-quality furniture and home goods made exclusively from Virginia-grown hardwoods, will expand its production facility in the county and open a new retail storefront in the historic Farmer Supply store in the heart of downtown Floyd.

The new retail and manufacturing space will enable the company to grow its product line, improve production efficiencies and better serve its customers. The project will create eight (8) career focused positions, lead to $100,000 in new capital investment and allow the company to purchase an additional $76,000 of Virginia-grown hardwoods over the next three years.

“Phoenix Hardwoods makes such beautiful furniture,” said Governor Ralph S. Northam. “Each piece displays the essence of the tree, sourced near Floyd, celebrating the Blue Ridge, and made right here at home in Virginia. Our team has worked hard over four years to bring business opportunities across Virginia, and we are working hard until the very end. We’ve pushed to recruit large, global companies to Virginia–attracting more than $80 billion in new investment and 100,000 new jobs–but we get really excited about the small, family-run Virginia companies, like Phoenix Hardwoods.”

“Phoenix Hardwoods makes such beautiful furniture. Each piece displays the essence of the tree, sourced near Floyd, celebrating the Blue Ridge, and made right here at home in Virginia.”
– Governor Ralph Northam

Established in 2002 by Bill and Corinne Graefe, Phoenix Hardwoods built its reputation through high-quality, artisan-crafted hardwood furniture and home goods. After nearly twenty-years in business, the founders were retiring and planning to close the company. In January 2020, longtime friends of the Graefe’s, Jeff and Annie Armistead, acquired the business. It was a perfect match with Jeff, a lifelong conservationist, and Annie, a local artist and gallery owner. Their desire was to continue what had become a loved and well-respected local business. They are passionate about retaining true handmade artisan craftsmanship which is rich in Floyd and part of the draw to this truly unique community. In addition to keeping the facility and retaining their team of talented young artisans, the company’s retail expansion into the Town of Floyd is breathing new life into the old Farmer’s Supply store, a Floyd landmark that opened in the 1930’s and closed in late 2020.

“As someone who grew-up in the Appalachian woodlands of Craig County, Virginia’s hardwood forests have always held a special place in my heart. I am thrilled that we are able to partner with a community like Floyd County to support a company like Phoenix Hardwoods as both appreciate Virginia’s hardwood resources as much as I do,” said Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry Bettina Ring. “As it is through a deep appreciation of our forests and the beautiful products that come from them, like those created by the artisans of Phoenix Hardwoods, that we are able to grow markets for Virginia’s forest landowners and support sustainable forest management and restoration of our forests.”

“As it is through a deep appreciation of our forests and the beautiful products that come from them, like those created by the artisans of Phoenix Hardwoods, that we are able to grow markets for Virginia’s forest landowners and support sustainable forest management and restoration of our forests.”
– Bettina Ring, Virginia Secretary of Agriculture and Forestry

The company saws, planes, and finishes local hardwood logs and lumber to handcraft fine live edge furniture and accessories. Their mission is to create high end generational pieces that become more valuable once they leave the shop. Their product assortment ranges from custom tables of all kinds beds, stools, chests, live edge mirrors, desks, kitchen goods, and home accessories. Moving the retail gallery to town will increase customer exposure and broaden their reach. Wholesale products, such as laser cut custom logo cutting boards, is a new and growing part of the business.

“As a lifelong conservationist, I’m overwhelmed and elated to receive this AFID grant,” said Phoenix Hardwoods President Jeff Armistead. “This will allow Phoenix Hardwoods to expand and continue our work with Virginia’s sustainable natural and human resources, trees, and jobs.”

The Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) worked with Floyd County and the Floyd County Economic Development Authority to secure this project for the Commonwealth. Governor Northam approved a $10,000 grant from the Governor’s Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund, which Floyd County will match with local funds.

“The Floyd County Board of Supervisors and the Floyd County EDA are excited about the expansion of Phoenix Hardwoods in the County,” said Floyd County Board of Supervisors Chairman Joe Turman. “This expansion by local entrepreneurs is bringing good job creation to our community and capitalizing on local craftsmanship and hardwoods.”

“This expansion by local entrepreneurs is bringing good job creation to our community and capitalizing on local craftsmanship and hardwoods.”
– Joe Turman, Floyd County Board of Supervisors Chairman

Office of the Governor
Contact: Alena Yarmosky
Email: Alena.Yarmosky@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Contact: Michael Wallace
Email: michael.wallace@vdacs.virginia.gov

Phoenix Hardwoods, Inc.
Contact: Jeff Armistead
Email: jeff@phoenixhardwoods.net

###

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.

2021 Accolades and Awards for the NRV

2021 Accolades and Awards for the NRV

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

New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley was frequently recognized during 2021 as a premier place to live, work, and do business. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades won this year by the NRV’s counties, city, towns, schools, and universities.

Radford #9 Best Place to Raise a Family in VALife is Wonderful in Virginia’s New River Valley

FloydFest Wins Four Best of the Blue Ridge 2021 AwardsThe NRV is Known for Its Unique Festivals, Destinations, and Businesses

Lane Stadium Voted Best Football Stadium in ACCEnjoy Sports and Recreation Across the NRV

NRV Tech Companies Make Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing CompaniesCompanies in the Virginia’s New River Valley are Thriving and Growing

VT and Radford Among Best Value Colleges in VirginiaThe NRV Offers High Quality Educational Opportunities

Explore more NRV accolades and awards 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.

10 Most Popular NRV Posts of 2021

10 Most Popular NRV Posts of 2021

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

New River Valley, VA – 2021 has been a busy year for Virginia’s New River Valley. The region had important project announcements that brought new investment and jobs. Businesses, universities, schools, and communities won accolades and awards. Recap this eventful year with a list of the ten most popular posts published in 2021 on TheNRV.org. The following posts had the most pageviews online.

43 NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2021 Awards

10. 43 NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2021 Awards

Businesses and destinations from across the New River Valley were honored in the Best of Virginia 2021 awards from Virginia Living magazine. Click here to see the winners.

9. Radford #9 Best Place to Raise a Family in VA

Radford was ranked the ninth best place to raise a family in Virginia for 2021 by HomeSnacks.com. The city has a lower cost of living and lower crime rates than the national average, which makes it one of Virginia’s most family-friendly places to live!

8. Blacksburg Featured on ESPN’s Ultimate College Road Trip

Virginia Tech’s 2021 football season opener against UNC in Lane Stadium was the first stop on ESPN.com’s nationwide college football extravaganza.

NRV Communities Among Top 20 Safest Cities in VA

7. NRV Communities Among Top 20 Safest Cities in VA

The National Council for Home Safety and Security found that Blacksburg, Radford, and Christiansburg are all among the top 20 safest cities in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

6. Oransi to Establish First Manufacturing Facility and Create 101 New Jobs in Radford

In April 2021, it was announced that Oransi would establish the company’s first manufacturing facility in the City of Radford. The company will invest $5.6 million in the project and create 101 new jobs.

Enjoy Craft Beer at These NRV Breweries

5. Enjoy Craft Beer at These NRV Breweries

This blog post lists the eleven craft breweries located throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. Visit one or more and explore the ever-expanding assortment of breweries in the region!

4. Riner is Virginia’s Best Small Town to Live In for 2021

HomeSnacks.com listed Riner as Virginia’s best small town to live in for 2021. When calculating the ratings, the folks at HomeSnacks evaluated small towns across the Commonwealth with populations under 1,000.

Moog Inc. to Expand and Create 75 New Jobs in Christiansburg

3. Moog Inc. to Expand and Create 75 New Jobs in Christiansburg

It was announced in February 2021 that Moog Inc. would invest $10.7 million to relocate from one of its Blacksburg facilities to the former Dish Network building in Falling Branch Corporate Park in Christiansburg. The company will transfer existing jobs to the new facility and create 75 new jobs.

2. Blacksburg High School Among Top 100 STEM High Schools in U.S.

U.S. News & World Report ranked Blacksburg High School among the top 100 STEM high schools across the nation. BHS also ranked #21 among all public high schools in Virginia, which was nine spots higher than 2020.

10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

1. 10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

Originally published in 2018, this blog post was updated in Summer 2021 to reflect the most current information about fun summer activities in Virginia’s New River Valley.

###

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.

VTCRC Announces New Lab Space and Collaboration with Johnson & Johnson

VTCRC Announces New Lab Space and Collaboration with Johnson & Johnson

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by
Brett Malone, President and CEO of the VTCRC, on December 15, 2021

Brett Malone, President and CEO of the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, at the announcement press conference on December 15, 2021. Photo courtesy of the VTCRC.

Montgomery County, VA – The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) announced today that GO Virginia has awarded the research park a grant to “fund the expansion of laboratory space and facilities aimed at supporting the region’s growing life science industry.” The VTCRC will develop a shared lab facility in Blacksburg with a coalition of stakeholders including Montgomery County, Carilion Clinic, and the City of Roanoke. These stakeholders will also design a larger facility in Roanoke.

The shared lab space facility at the VTCRC in Blacksburg will be called COgro LABS and “is designed with 25 accessible lab spaces in a turn-key facility. The facility will help meet a need for flexible lab space from small- to early-stage companies, making starting and building a biotech company a little bit easier.”

“Through collaborations, we aim to fill the demand from biotechnology companies and provide full access needed to support research to commercialization aspirations. Our sophisticated infrastructure makes us a research destination across industries and for everyone from startups to enterprise companies.”
– Brett Malone, President & CEO of the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center

In addition to this new lab space, the VTCRC has established a new collaboration with Johnson & Johnson LLC to “provide early-stage innovators in the region with access to their virtual residency program which includes expert mentoring, programming and resources offered through Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS.” Up to five companies will be selected by JLABS and the VTCRC to participate in the JLABS virtual residency program during the first year of the collaboration.

“Montgomery County is pleased to provide support to this partnership, which demonstrates our commitment to biotechnology growth in the New River and Roanoke Valleys. We look forward to working with the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center and the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute to promote recognition for our region as a biotechnology hub.”
– Craig Meadows, County Administrator for Montgomery County.

The VTCRC’s new shared lab space and its collaboration with Johnson & Johnson will enhance opportunities for biotech companies and startups in Virginia’s New River Valley.

Read the press release about this exciting announcement from the VTCRC here.

Learn more about COgro LABS and the VTCRC here.

Learn more about industries 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.

Virginia Tech Project Named Finalist for BBB Regional Challenge

Virginia Tech Project Named Finalist for BBB Regional Challenge

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

New River Valley, VA – The U.S. Economic Development Administration has named a Virginia Tech proposal, titled “The Future of Transportation and Logistics”, as a finalist for the Build Back Better Regional Challenge. According to the U.S. EDA, “[t]he Challenge provides transformational investments to develop and strengthen regional industry clusters across the country, all while embracing equitable economic growth, creating good-paying jobs, and enhancing U.S. global competitiveness.”

Virginia Tech was chosen as one of sixty finalists out of 529 applications from across the country. Each finalist was awarded a $500,000 grant to help develop their final proposal. From the finalists, the U.S. EDA “will ultimately award 20-30 regional coalitions between $25 and $100 million to implement 3-8 projects that support an industry sector.”

The proposed project from Virginia Tech will bring together partners across Virginia’s New River Valley and the adjacent regions to develop three transformational projects that will grow the region’s economy. The projects are:

  1. I-81 Autonomous-Electric Testbed
  2. Advanced Air Mobility Testbed
  3. Industry network for training, talent, technology, and entrepreneurial development

Finalist proposals are due to the U.S. EDA by March 15, 2022 and winners are expected to be announced no later than September 2022. Learn more about the Build Back Better Regional Challenge here.

Read Virginia Tech’s project proposal summary for “The Future of Transporation and Logistics” here.

Learn more about advanced manufacturing, unmanned systems, and other industries 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 Companies Collaborate for Innovative Logistics Solutions

Pulaski County Companies Collaborate for Innovative Logistics Solutions

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Pulaski County, VA – Pulaski County companies Patton Logistics and Volvo Trucks North America are collaborating on a unique solution to improve the energy efficiency of logistics and delivery. A recent article from The Daily Item stated Patton Logistics is planning to purchase “five Volvo VNR Electric semi-trucks for operations at its warehouse in Dublin, Virginia.” Volvo announced in December 2020 that the company’s new VNR Electric trucks would be manufactured at their NRV assembly plant located in Dublin.

Patton Logistics plans to use the electric trucks for local, round-trip deliveries in Virginia, and the companies collaborated to prepare for this new logistics route. According to the article, “Volvo engineers analyzed Patton’s routes by looking at the terrain the vehicles would travel, the distance, too, along with downtime at the point of origin and delivery destination.”

This unique partnership between Patton Logistics and Volvo is just one example of the innovative and collaborative business culture that exists in Virginia’s New River Valley. Learn more about doing business in the region here.

Read the full article from The Daily Item about the partnership between Patton Logistics and Volvo here.

Learn more about Pulaski County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

Photo courtesy of Volvo Trucks North America.

###

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.

GO Virginia Grant will Fund Talent Project in Floyd and Pulaski Counties

GO Virginia Grant will Fund Talent Project in Floyd and Pulaski Counties

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – The New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Consortium Board was awarded a Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) grant to assist businesses in attracting and retaining talent in Floyd and Pulaski Counties. Governor Ralph Northam announced in late September that the award is one of fourteen GO Virginia grant projects that will be funded. The fourteen grants total over $7.7 million dollars and are intended “to advance community economic recovery efforts in … economic diversification, workforce development, talent pipelines, economic resiliency, and business-ready sites.”

Here is more detailed information from the press release about the project in Floyd and Pulaski Counties:

Profiles that Increase the Competencies, Knowledge and Skills that Matter | $100,000
Region 2: Counties of Floyd and Pulaski
Using the American College Testing (ACT) Job Profiling system, the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Consortium Board will consult with experts at companies to analyze the skills, skill levels, and skill frequency workers need to be successful at certain jobs. This project will support the economic growth of the region’s priority industry clusters by developing a tool, process, and common language in helping businesses with their recruiting, hiring, training, and promoting practices. Additionally, it will assist businesses to make decisions about jobs, identify strengths, set training goals, and find appropriate training programs for in-demand jobs for high-growth businesses.

Read the governor’s full press release, including information about the other grants awarded, here.

Learn more about the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Consortium Board here.

Learn more about workforce and talent 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.