NRV Companies Announce 2,530 Jobs and $551 Million in Investment Since 2018

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has seen great economic success in the last 5 years. 24 new or expanding companies announced plans to create 2,530 jobs and invest over $551 million in the NRV region.

Onward NRV, the regional economic development organization for Virginia’s New River Valley, reported that the economic growth surpassed their goals set in their Onward 2023 five-year strategic plan for the region. Their original goals were $180 million in new capital investment and 1,720 new jobs.

Onward NRV Executive Director Katie Boswell said, “Virginia’s New River Valley is a great place to live, work, and do business, which is why so many companies have located or expanded in our region over the past five years. We appreciate the businesses who choose to grow in our region, which helps to bring jobs and economic vitality to the New River Valley. Finally, we are grateful for our partnerships with our local economic development organizations, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the many other regional stakeholders that contribute to economic development. Without collaboration, these projects would not be possible.”

Here are some selected wins that highlight the New River Valley’s economic growth and success over the past five years:

  • Volvo Group announced in June 2019 that they would invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America assembly operation in Pulaski County, creating 777 new jobs.
  • Torc Robotics announced in August 2020 they would create 350 new jobs and invest $8.5 million to expand their software development operations in Montgomery County.
  • Oransi announced in April 2021 they would create 101 new jobs and bring their first manufacturing facility to the City of Radford, investing $5.6 million.
  • Hollingsworth & Vose announced in January 2023 that they would expand one of their two existing plants in Floyd County, bringing $40.2 million in capital investment and 25 new jobs.

Browse press releases from NRV economic development announcements over the past five years here.

Explore the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s list of economic development announcements here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is the perfect location to let your business flourish. The area is affordable, accessible, innovative, and enjoyable. To learn more about doing business in Virginia’s New River Valley click 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 Farmers Market Trail

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If local vegetables, handpicked flowers, and fresh baked goods are what define your summer, then it’s time to hit the NRV Farmers Market Trail. Each market brings its own finds and, in some cases, music. Summer is a time for meandering through the local artisan-crafted gifts and food. It’s the taste of freshness and the local community that make this region’s farmers markets such a treasure. Explore the exciting flavors that abound in the New River Valley by grabbing your bag and joining us as we delve into the local NRV Farmers Market Trail.

       

1. City of Radford’s Farmers Market

 

Our first stop on this Farmers Market journey is the City of Radford, where The Radford Farmers Market is a staple in Radford every Saturday during the months of April through October from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. rain or shine. Visit them weekly for an ever-changing supply of fresh and local produce, honey, eggs, meats, crafts, pastries, baked goods, flowers, and nursery starts.

       

2. Floyd County’s Farmers Market

 

Traversing through the countryside, our next visit is to The Floyd Farmers Market. It is open every Saturday from May through December from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm under the community pavilion in the center of downtown Floyd. A limited number of vendors are available on Thursdays from 4:00pm-7:00pm. They are proud to provide the community with locally grown, fresh produce and artisanal products and believe that shopping locally is the best way to get fresh, high-quality, and unique products.

     

3. Giles County’s Farmers Markets

 

Giles County flows through several towns and offers up a great variety of local produce at their Narrows Farmers Market and the Pearisburg Community Market. With a chance to chat with local farmers and artisans, you won’t want to miss stopping into Giles County.

The Narrows Farmers Market runs Saturdays 9am – 1pm at 135 Monroe Street and offers tables already onsite to accommodate several vendors and a sheltered pavilion for rain coverage.

The Pearisburg Community Market is located on the front lawn of the Community Center on Wenonah Avenue and is open the third Friday of the month from 5:00pm-7:30pm.

       

4. Montgomery County’s Farmers Markets

 

Continuing our travels through the New River Valley’s Farmers Markets, we find ourselves in Montgomery County with a few options for perusing the local offerings.

The Blacksburg Farmer’s Market is located in the center of Blacksburg and has a variety of hours to choose from:

  • Jan-Mar: Sat. 10am – 2pm
  • Apr-Oct: Wed. 2pm – 6pm & Sat. 8am – 2pm
  • Nov.-Dec: Wed. 2pm – 6pm & Sat. 9am – 2pm

The Christiansburg Farmers Market is located at 1600 North Franklin Street on Thursdays May – October from 3pm – 7pm. Each day differs, so you don’t want to miss out on what is available. You never know what you are going to find!

I don’t know about you, but I have found some lovely things at each market. My bags are full of some fabulous gifts and local veggies. I even heard some great music along the way! But there is still room for just a little more of what the NRV has to offer.

     

5. Pulaski County’s Farmers Market

 

Pulaski’s Marketplace has just what I need to finish out this Farmers Market Trail and I have just the spot for it in my bags. The Historic Train station offers a great backdrop for the music as I make my final purchases from the NRV. Join Pulaski at The Marketplace Tuesday’s 4-7pm in the summers where local vendors and artisans show of their knowledge and products. With activities for kids, there is fun for the whole family!

           

Thank you for joining us on the NRV Farmers Market Trail. I hope you have enjoyed the vendors, the locations, music, and all the treats you picked up along the way!

Click here to find out why the NRV is a great place to live, work, and do business.

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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.

Efforts to Retain NRV Talent Featured in Virginia Business Magazine

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley was recently featured in a Virginia Business article on talent retention in the area.

The article spoke about how both the New River Valley and the Roanoke region are working to retain students and tap into remote workers looking for a better quality of life that the larger metropolitan areas don’t offer.

John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement was quoted as saying that “students are the largest export” of the region because of universities like Radford and Virginia Tech.

Students don’t typically stay in the region because they don’t know all that it has to offer. Programs like Onward NRV’s NRV Experience were created to educate and show off the New River Valley to summer interns working in the area. The program features five community excursions and professional development trainings throughout the summer. Onward NRV hosts the program in collaboration with local tourism directors and economic developers in the region. The livability of the region is a huge asset for talent recruitment and retention with access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and a cost of living that makes life easier. The NRV has a lot to offer to those who choose to live and work in the area.

Read the article here.

Learn more about the NRV Experience here.

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for anyone looking for a place to call home and do business 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 $1.3 million Broadband Grant

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Floyd County, VA– Cardinal News recently reported that Floyd County was awarded $1.3 million of a $59.5 million Virginia Telecommunications Initiative (VATI) Grant.

The VATI Grant will help fund 14 different projects designed to bring broadband service to underserved areas across the state. VATI’s goal is to help build a telecommunications infrastructure that will create attractive communities throughout Virginia.

Floyd County will use the funds, in partnership with Citizens Telephone Cooperative, to build a fiber-to-the-home broadband network that will include seven businesses and community institutions as well as 542 currently unserved locations.

Recipients of the VATI Grant were selected based on the project’s demonstrated infrastructure needs and benefit to the community.

Read more of the Cardinal News article here.

View the full list of recipients here.


Photo by John Schnobrich


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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

NRV Counties Receive Outdoor Recreation Grants

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New River Valley, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin recently announced that two counties in Virginia’s New River Valley will each receive up to $20,000 through the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) DRIVE Outdoor grant program. The DRIVE Outdoor grant program targets “outdoor product development and entrepreneurial expansion throughout the Commonweath.”

Both Floyd County and Giles County were selected for the grant. The counties will use the funds to build upon the quality of life experienced by the residents of the NRV.

Governor Glen Youngkin said, “Outdoor recreation is an important part of Virginia’s economy and key to furthering the Commonwealth’s position as a top destination on the East Coast. The projects developed from the DRIVE Outdoor program will spur job creation, private investment, and endless opportunities for outdoor-focused partnerships.”

Read the full press release, including information on the other 8 communities selected for the grant, here.

The outdoors in the NRV provides a constant source of entertainment due to its natural resources, activities, and breathtaking views. Major outdoor attractions such as the New River, the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Claytor Lake State Park, and Pandapas Pond are woven into the fabric of each community in the NRV. Explore the trails and waterways of Virginia’s New River Valley here.


Photo by Tony Greatorex


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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 Locations Featured in the 2023 Blue Ridge Outdoors Camping and Cabin Guide

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New River Valley, VA– The New River Valley is the perfect place to pitch your tent for the summer while making lasting family memories overlooking the New River and the Blue Ridge Mountains. With camping season in full bloom, Blue Ridge Outdoors recently listed several locations in Pulaski County and Floyd County as some of the “best places to stay in the Blue Ridge backcountry” in their 2023 Camping and Cabin Guide.

Pulaski County’s Claytor Lake was selected as a great place for RVs since the “campsite offers the perfect home base to explore the 4,500-acre lake”. The New River Trail State Park was selected for its multi-day adventure and the ability to camp along the 57-mile park as you bike or hike.

Floyd County was chosen because of the variety of camping options. It “is home to the Little River, Buffalo Mountain, and 40 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway, making it the perfect destination for outdoor adventure and camping.”

Explore the 2023 Blue Ridge Outdoors Camping and Cabin Guide here.

Step into the great outdoors and discover the beauty that awaits you 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.

Floyd Among Travel + Leisure’s Best Small Towns in Virginia

Floyd Among Travel + Leisure’s Best Small Towns in Virginia

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Floyd County, VA – Travel + Leisure recently listed Floyd as one of the twelve best small towns in Virginia to visit. Here’s what Travel + Leisure’s Jennifer Prince had to say about Floyd:
“The mountain town of Floyd serves as a haven for music and features the annual Floyd Fest, a 5-day music and art festival set against the backdrop of Southwest Virginia’s scenic landscape. The area is filled with fascinating moonshine history and artisans who offer glimpses into their process via studio tours. In addition, music lovers will enjoy visiting the Floyd Country Store, which hosts live events several times a week.”
Not only is Floyd a great place to visit, but it is also a wonderful place to live and work. Explore Floyd County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here. Learn more about living in Virginia’s New River Valley here. Read the full list from Travel + Leisure of Virginia small towns to visit 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.
6 NRV Locations Win Best of Blue Ridge 2023 Awards

6 NRV Locations Win Best of Blue Ridge 2023 Awards

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New River Valley, VA – Six well-known locations and events around the NRV recently won Best of the Blue Ridge 2023 Awards from Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine. Additionally, there were six businesses from around the region that were highlighted as runners up in different categories.

This is the 13th annual Best of the Blue Ridge Awards. In November 2022, readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors voted on their “favorite outdoor businesses, events, food/drinks, and destinations in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic” to determine this year’s winners.

Browse the New River Valley’s Best of the Blue Ridge winners and runners up below:

Winners:

Runners Up:
  • Mountain Lake Lodge: Best Kid-Friendly Adventure Spot
  • Buffalo Mountain Ziplines: Best Zipline
  • 5 Mile Mountain Distillery: Best Distillery
  • Red Rooster Coffee: Best Coffee Shop
  • Runabout Sports: Best Running Shop
  • Mountainside Holistic Clinic: Best Wellness Center


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

    Explore more of the outdoors across 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.

H&V to Create 25 Jobs in Floyd County

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

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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.

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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.

2022 NRV Awards and Accolades

Celebrate the NRV with 2022 Awards and Accolades

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New River Valley, VA – The NRV is a great place to live, work, and do business, and because of that fact, the region was celebrated throughout 2022. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades and awards won this year by the NRV’s counties, city, towns, schools, businesses, and universities.

Regional Rankings