Top 10 Blog Posts of 2024

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley had an incredible 2024! From major grants to prestigious rankings, the stories that people enjoyed the most highlight the region’s vibrant growth and community spirit. Join us as we countdown the top ten posts from TheNRV.org that captured the most clicks this year:

10. Floyd County Receives $2.7 Million for Economic Development

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.

Floyd Regional Commerce Center

9. Trail Center Opens to Visitors in Giles County

The ribbon cutting for the Giles County Trail Center at Mountain Lake Lodge was celebrated on May 10, 2024. According to a press release from Mountain Lake Lodge, the Trail Center has been created to help visitors discover the many attractions and trails of Giles County.

8. Giles County Awarded Federal Grant for Glen Lyn Plant

Cardinal News recently reported that Giles County was awarded a U.S. Economic Development Administration grant to support a reuse study of the decommissioned Appalachian Power coal fired Glen Lyn Plant. The power plant has been in Giles County since 1919.

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

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.

Floyd Country Store

6. Eggleston Featured in “Lost Communities of Virginia”

Eggleston, once a bustling town in Virginia’s New River Valley, is still a regional destination, but for a different reason. The old general store turned gourmet restaurant, The Palisades Restaurant, attracts visitors for miles, but Eggleston looks a lot different than it did previously.

5. Floyd and Giles Locations Win 2024 Best of Blue Ridge Awards

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.

4. NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2024 Awards

Virginia Living magazine recently recognized sixty-nine destinations and businesses in the New River Valley with Best of Virginia 2024 awards for Southwest Virginia. This annual contest invites the magazine’s readers to vote for the top destinations and businesses across the five regions of Virginia. The impressive number of winners from the New River Valley highlights how the NRV is a natural fit for anyone looking to live like a local.

Best of Virginia 2024

3. Radford Receives Grant for VCI Site

The City of Radford was recently awarded a $3.5 million grant from the Virginia Business Ready Site Program for their VCI property located on West Main Street.

2. Virginia Tech Ranks Top 3 Best College Campuses in America

Virginia Tech ranks third in 2020 Best College Campuses by Niche.com.

1. Virginia Tech Ranks as Top University

Virginia Tech recently reported that they have been ranked as a top university by both the Wall Street Journal and the U.S. News & World Report.

Virginia Tech

Discover the rest of the stories that made 2024 an incredible year for the NRV here.

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

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

This is an image of a river with a trail bridge surrounded by mountains with fall foliage.

Virginia’s New River Valley Featured in Virginia Economic Review

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New River Valley, VA – The Virginia Economic Review recently featured Virginia’s New River Valley in their latest edition “Big Thinking for the Future: The Innovation Issue”. The NRV is celebrated as a vibrant center for creativity, culture, and groundbreaking innovation.

In the article “A Research Hotbed by an Ancient River”, the region is recognized for its thriving tech sector that is fueled by a talent pipeline from Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College . The presence of these universities has resulted in the creation of numerous innovative industries in the region.

Beyond its economic achievements, the Virginia Economic Review highlighted the NRV’s unique charm. With its small-town appeal, rich cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty, the region offers an unparalleled quality of life.

The NRV is strategically positioned as a hub for growth and opportunity due to its excellent connectivity via Interstate 81 and nearby Interstate 77 and its business-friendly environment. Discover more about why the New River Valley is a hub for innovation and culture here.

Read the full “A Research Hotbed by an Ancient River” article 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.

10 Winter Activities in the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Winter is a magical time to explore Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV). From holiday traditions to outdoor adventures and cozy indoor escapes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are ten activities to make the most of the winter season in the NRV:

1. Floyd Center for the Arts Winterfest

Mark your calendar for the Annual Winterfest at the Floyd Center for the Arts on December 7–8, from 10 AM–5 PM. Browse unique handmade gifts, participate in the Festival of Trees, and soak in the holiday spirit. Admission is free, making it a must-visit for holiday cheer! Get all the details here.

Image by Floyd Center for the Arts

2. Frozen Cascades:

When the weather is just right, this spectacular 69 ft waterfall freezes over and transforms into a stunning icy masterpiece suspended from a two-hundred-foot cliff. As one of the most visited waterfalls in Virginia, Cascades Falls is a must no matter the season. Plan your visit here.

3. The Historic Draper Blooms Tea Garden:

Take a break from the holiday hustle at this enchanting tearoom. Indulge in gourmet teas and herbal infusions in a serene setting designed to nurture your spirit. Book a tearoom here.

Image by Blooms Tea Garden

4. “Fashions for Evergreens” at The Inn at Virginia Tech:

Marvel at intricately decorated Christmas trees and cast your vote for your favorite at this cherished holiday tradition. It’s the perfect backdrop for festive photos and family memories. Visit the Inn here.

5. Radford University Basketball:

Cheer on the Radford Highlanders at the Dedmon Center during their NCAA Division 1 basketball season. It’s an exciting way to enjoy winter sports and community camaraderie. Check out Radford University Athletics here.

Image by Radford University Athletics

6. A New Leaf Gallery:

Immerse yourself in Floyd County’s vibrant art scene at A New Leaf Gallery. Located across from the Floyd Country Store, this gallery offers a space for creativity and community connection, showcasing local artists’ work. Stop by Tuesday through Saturday (11 AM–5 PM) or Sunday (12 PM–4 PM). Learn more here.

7. Mountain Lake Lodge Magical Christmas Village and Marketplace:

Step into a winter wonderland at Mountain Lake Lodge (home to the movie Dirty Dancing), complete with twinkling lights, festive shops, ice skating, and seasonal activities. This magical experience promises memories to treasure. Explore more details here.

8. New River Community College Concert Series:

Celebrate the region’s love for bluegrass music at this longstanding concert series. Running since 1991, it’s a great way to experience talent and community. Learn more about the concert series here.

Image by Pexels

9. Montgomery Museum of Art & History:

Dive into art and history at this local museum, offering exhibits and programs to inspire and engage visitors of all ages. Plan you visit here.

10. The New River Polar Plunge:

Close out the winter months with a splash—literally! The Polar Plunge at Bisset Park is a fundraiser for Special Olympics Virginia, featuring costume contests, heated changing tents, and an exhilarating dip into the icy New River. Join the fun here.

Bonus Tips:


Christmas Trees:

Looking for a place to get a tree? Make your holiday special by selecting your own. Check out these local resources.

Image by Pexels

Local Parades & Events:

Every NRV community hosts its own holiday festivities. Stay tuned to local social media pages for the latest updates.


With its blend of festive events, stunning nature, and warm community spirit, the NRV has a little something for everyone in winter. Bundle up and explore all the region has to offer!

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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.

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 anniversary.

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.”