Citizens Telephone Completes Fiber Build in Floyd

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Floyd County, VA – Citizens recently reported that they have completed the fiber build in Floyd County as of August 2024. According to their recent press release, Citizens is the first company in Southwest Virginia to have connected every home in a single county to 1 Gbps fiber internet.

Citizens Telephone Cooperative began connecting Floyd County to fiber internet in 2017 with the assistance of federal and state funded grants and the Line Extension Customer Assistance Program. The press release goes on to say that “the extensive network spans 715 miles across Floyd County, passing over 10,000 homes. Nearly 4,500 residents and businesses have connected to the 1 Gbps service.” In a world where remote work, online banking, virtual education, and telemedicine are becoming the norm, this connectivity is an important infrastructure milestone for Floyd County and the region.

Read Citizens’ press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

New River Valley Craft Beverage Tour

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New River Valley, VA – August is a special time for craft beer lovers in Virginia, as the state celebrates Craft Beer Month highlighting the best of local brewing. Virginia’s New River Valley, with its growing craft beverage scene, is the perfect destination to experience this celebration firsthand. Home to a variety of breweries and distilleries, the region offers a diverse selection of craft beers and spirits. Whether you’re into bold IPAs, refreshing lagers, or small-batch spirits, the New River Valley’s craft beverage scene has something for everyone to enjoy this August. Whether you’re a local or planning a trip, make sure to raise a glass in the New River Valley and experience the craft beer and spirits of the region.

Enjoy craft beer month in the New River Valley by visiting our breweries and distilleries:

With a commitment to quality and a passion for creativity, the New River Valley continues to inspire all that live and work here. The people have created a community that cherishes culture and connectivity. It’s a natural fit for those who like to craft and grow their skills. Discover more about the Food Processing and Agribusiness in the NRV here. And learn why the NRV is a great place to sip and savor life here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Southern Living Names Floyd Country Store Top 20 Friendliest Places in the South

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Floyd County, VA – Southern Living magazine recently ranked The Floyd Country Store among their “20 Friendliest Places in the South”. The Floyd Country Store was selected as “Most Inviting Front Porch” due to the “centuries-old songs” that spill out from the store on a weekly basis. The Floyd Country Store is known for its Friday Night Jamboree and impromptu jam sessions. The Friday Night Jamboree is currently celebrating its 40th anniversay.

According to the article, Southern Living selections were based on “a list of reader-submitted nominations that numbered into the thousands and included all types of places from hotels to restaurants to shops to entire towns.”

Read the full list here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Workforce Development Consortium Receives Grant

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Radford, VA – The New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Area Consortium recently received a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. This grant is part of a $98 million initiative to enhance training and employment services for young people and expand apprenticeships in high-demand careers.

The consortium is one of 72 organizations across 30 states awarded through the YouthBuild Program. According to the YouthBuild website, “YouthBuild is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational services for opportunity youth ages 16-24 who left school without a secondary diploma.”

Administered by the U.S Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration and supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, YouthBuild grants help disadvantaged young people acquire occupational skills, employment services, and educational guidance. The program emphasizes green building techniques, including sustainable building materials, solar panel installation, and weatherization processes. Participants can also earn their high school diploma or equivalency degree while receiving workplace training.

Read the full press release and see a complete list of grant recipients from the U.S. Department of Labor here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Floyd County Receives $2.7 Million for Economic Development

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Floyd County, VA – Cardinal News recently reported that Floyd County was awarded a $2.7 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to develop infrastructure to support the growth of their Floyd Regional Commerce Center.

According to the EDA press release, Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo said that the grant “will help ensure that Floyd County, Virginia has the resources necessary to create modern and sustainable infrastructure that will support local business, create good-paying jobs, and transform the local economy.”

Cardinal News stated that the grant will be used to continue to develop the 170-acre Floyd Regional Commerce Center. Only 6.4 acres are currently graded with access to roads and utilities. The funds will be used to help extend the road and utilities to the undeveloped sections of the Center. Because of the nature of the terrain, the area will eventually yield 27 buildable acres.

This grant will be matched by $680,000 in local funds.

Read the Cardinal News article here.

Read the EDA press release here.

Discover available sites and buildings in the New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

The Towns of Floyd and Pulaski Receive Grants

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Virginia’s New River Valley – The Town of Floyd and the Town of Pulaski have both received grants from the Virginia governor’s office. These grants will aid the towns in bolstering growth in their localities.

The Town of Floyd was awarded over $200,000 of a Virginia Brownfields Restoration and Economic Redevelopment Assistance Fund (VBAF). According to the press release, the VBAF “provides either grants or loans to local governments to restore and redevelop brownfield sites and address environmental problems or obstacles to their reuse in an effort to effectively attract new economic development prospects.” The Town of Floyd will use the funds for multiple commercial properties in the west end of the town.

The Town of Pulaski received $500,000 for a Mixed Use on Main Street Grant (MUMS). According to the MUMS press release, this program is to “support the revitalization of vacant or underutilized downtown spaces to create opportunities for commercial development and housing units.” The Town of Pulaski will use the funds to add eight market-rate apartments to 69 West Man Street.

Read the VBAF press release here.

Read the MUMS press release here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Floyd Growth Center Featured as EDA Success Story

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Floyd County, VA – The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) recently highlighted Floyd County’s Growth Center as a testament to the effectiveness of EDA funding in preserving jobs and enterprises in Virginia.

Positioned as vital infrastructure, this center caters to the needs of local entrepreneurs in Floyd, providing a resilient space capable of withstanding various natural disasters prevalent in the area. The construction of this 16,000 square foot facility was partially funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration through the Disaster Supplemental Funding program.

Currently housing Pragmatic Environmental Solutions, an oil recycling engineering firm, the center embodies Floyd’s commitment to green practices and sustainable solutions. Floyd County’s Community and Economic Development Director Lydeana Martin noted that “Floyd has a natural, green reputation. While ideologically conservative, our businesses support practical, forward-leaning technologies and the implementation of sustainable solutions.”

Opportunities in the Floyd Growth Center are still available. For a virtual tour of the center click here.

Read the full EDA article here.

Explore more sites and buildings in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Remote Workers Love the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Cardinal News recently highlighted a shift in the landscape of remote work in Virginia between 2019 and 2022 citing insights from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. According to the survey, remote work in Virginia’s New River Valley has surged by 101%, reflecting a growing trend of professionals opting for the region’s lifestyle. The allure of scenic vistas, affordable living, and a vibrant community makes the New River Valley an irresistible choice for remote work and living. With its beautiful landscapes and safe environments, it’s no surprise that more individuals are embracing the opportunity to work remotely from this picturesque corner of Virginia. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley feels like home for remote workers. It’s simply a natural fit. Calculate your cost of living in Virginia’s New River Valley here. Read the Cardinal News Article here. View the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey here.
Photo by Antoni Shkraba
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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.” Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

Floyd and Giles Locations Win 2024 Best of Blue Ridge Awards

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New River Valley, VA – Seven locations around the NRV recently won Best of the Blue Ridge 2024 Awards from the Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine. Another four locations were highlighted as runners up in a variety of categories.

The Best of the Blue Ridge Outdoors Awards winners were voted on by readers from around the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic region of the US. Readers voted on their favorite trails, “amazing adventures, exciting races, and local businesses”.

Winners:

Runners Up:

See all the Best of the Blue Ridge 2023 award winners here.

Explore the best of the outdoors in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.

NRV 2023 Top 50 Metro Area for Economic Growth in the US

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New River Valley, VA – The New River Valley is one of the top 50 places in America for metro areas that are “hotspots for economic growth”, according to Area Development. The magazine recently released its rankings of the 2023 leading metro locations that are hotspots for economic growth.

The Blacksburg-Christiansburg metropolitan statistical area (MSA), also known as the New River Valley, ranked No. 49 overall and No. 21 among mid-sized metros with populations between 160,000 to 600,000. The New River Valley is the only location from Virginia that made the top 50.

According to Area Development, they ranked “384 MSAs across 24 economic and workforce indicators pulled from eight (8) data sets — each set containing a five-year change, a three-year change, and a one-year change indicator — originating from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census, and JobsEQ® by Chmura Economics & Analytics.” The “Overall Ranking” was created by totaling the score across all data sets, with the five-year change indicators carrying the most weight and the one-year indicators carrying the least weight. The four primary indicators used to compile the rankings included Prime Workforce, Economic Strength, Year-Over-Year Growth, Three-Year Growth, and Five-Year Growth.

The “overall ranking” isn’t a product of just one indicator, but all the factors combined. This shows the New River Valley’s strength in a variety of different indicators that make it ‘a natural fit’ across the board. The region benefits from its emerging tech hub, high-tech advanced manufacturing, access to talent, great cost of living and many other key factors that make the NRV a great place to live and do business.

Read the full list of rankings here.

Read the methodology behind the report here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

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.