NRV Communities Win Grants to Expand Broadband Access

NRV Communities Win Grants to Expand Broadband Access

New River Valley, VA – Broadband access is quickly expanding across Virginia’s New River Valley. Two projects in the region were awarded grant funding from the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative (VATI) to expand broadband to unserved households. These grants were part of an announcement from Governor Northam earlier this week. This most recent initiative to expand broadband across the commonwealth “will advance Virginia 90% to the goal of achieving universal access to broadband and high-speed internet, placing Virginia on track to being one of the first states successfully charting a path to universal access to broadband.”

In addition to the grant funding from VATI, each project leveraged private and local investments as well. Here is more information about the two broadband projects that were funded in Virginia’s New River Valley:

New River Valley Regional Commission and Gigabeam and All Points Broadband
$68,355,355.00 Award
$67,370,008.00 Leveraged

The project will build fiber broadband to 19,966 unserved locations and achieve universal coverage in Bland, Montgomery, and Pulaski Counties.

Floyd County and Citizens
$1,310,267.00 Award
$1,111,725.00 Leveraged

The project will build fiber broadband to 723 unserved locations and achieve universal coverage in Floyd County.



Read the Governor’s press release listing all of the grant winners across Virginia here.

Learn more about efforts to expand broadband access 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.

Virginia Tech Project Named Finalist for BBB Regional Challenge

Virginia Tech Project Named Finalist for BBB Regional Challenge

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.

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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 Venues and Restaurants Featured in NY Times Article

Floyd Venues and Restaurants Featured in NY Times Article

Floyd County, VA – The New York Times Travel section recently featured several Floyd venues and restaurants in an article titled “8 Places to Visit Along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway.” In the article, author Marissa Hermanson details the beauty of the Blue Ridge Parkway in the fall and describes a road trip itinerary that visits prominent places along the Parkway in Virginia.

Notable Floyd locations featured in the article include Mabry Mill, Chateau Morrissette Winery, Dogtown Roadhouse, and the Floyd Country Store.

Here is what the article had to say about Floyd:

“[T]he laid-back mountain town of Floyd is on the map as a music destination.”

Read the full article from the New York Times here.

Learn more about Floyd County, a community 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.

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

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

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.

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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.

BT Bus Promoting the NRV Makes Its Premiere

BT Bus Promoting the NRV Makes Its Premiere

New River Valley, VA – Check out the new NRV bus that is making its way around Blacksburg! The special Blacksburg Transit bus is wrapped with a Virginia’s New River Valley design. Individuals from around the region are featured on the bus, and the bus encourages Virginia Tech students and Hokie football fans to make the region home by finding their careers and communities in the NRV.

Blacksburg Transit NRV Bus Wrap Driveside

The driver’s side of the Blacksburg Transit NRV bus wrap is in front of Virginia Tech’s Burruss Hall.

Blacksburg Transit NRV Bus Wrap Curbside

The curb side of the Blacksburg Transit NRV bus wrap is in front of Virginia Tech’s War Memorial.

Blacksburg Transit NRV Bus Wrap Back

The back of the Blacksburg Transit NRV bus wrap is on Virginia Tech’s Drill Field Drive.

Onward NRV, a regional economic development organization, spearheaded the project to wrap the bus with NRV designs. Learn more about the New River Valley bus project here.

Learn more about living and working in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Photo credit: Photos taken by Aspire Marketing Agency.

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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.

43 NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2021 Awards

43 NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2021 Awards

New River Valley, VAVirginia Living magazine recently honored forty-three destinations and businesses from across Virginia’s New River Valley with Best of Virginia 2021 awards for Southwest Virginia. The annual awards contest allows the magazine’s readers to vote for the best destinations and businesses “across the five regions of Virginia”. The astounding number of winners from the New River Valley shows that it is truly a premier place to live, work, and do business.

The Best of Virginia 2021 award winners from Virginia’s New River Valley are listed below in their respective categories.

Living and Recreation

  • Blue Ridge Parkway, Floyd County – Winner – Best Tourist Attraction
  • FloydFest, Floyd – Winner – Best Non-Food Festival
  • Lane Stadium, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Sports Venue
  • Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke – Winner – Best Wedding or Special Event Venue
  • Wine & Design, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Entertainment Center for Adults
  • Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke – Winner – Best Resort
  • Off Leash K9 Training, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Dog Training Company
  • Carilion Wellness, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Gym or Fitness Studio

Food & Drink

  • Due South BBQ, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Barbecue Restaurant
  • Our Daily Bread Bakery & Bistro, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Breakfast/Brunch Restaurant
  • Dude’s Drive-In, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Burger Joint
  • India Garden Restaurant, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Indian Restaurant
  • Sal’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria, Radford – Winner- Best Italian Restaurant
  • Dogtown Roadhouse, Floyd – Winner – Best Pizzeria
  • Cabo Fish Taco, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Seafood Restaurant
  • The Farmhouse, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Steakhouse
  • The Palisades Restaurant, Eggleston – Winner – Best Restaurant
  • Gillie’s, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Restaurant for Vegans or Vegetarians
  • Thai This Food Truck, Radford – Winner – Best Food Truck
  • Macado’s, Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Radford – Winner – Best Sandwich Shop
  • The Farmhouse, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Outdoor Dining
  • Blacksburg Farmers’ Market, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Farmers’ Market
  • ALDI, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Grocery Store
  • Vintage Cellar, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Wine Shop
  • Blacksburg Wine Lab, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Bar with Best Atmosphere
  • Five Mile Mountain Distillery, Floyd – Winner – Best Distillery
  • Iron Heart Winery, Hiwassee – Winner – Best Winery

Services

  • New River Valley Pediatrics, Blacksburg, Christiansburg, and Radford – Winner – Best Pediatric Practice
  • Real Life Dental, Blacksburg, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Dental Practice
  • NRV Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Blacksburg, Radford – Winner – Best Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Practice
  • Life in Balance Counseling & Wellness Center, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Counseling or Therapy Practice
  • Tuck Chiropractic Clinic, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Chiropractic Practice
  • Carilion Clinic Cosmetic Center, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Cosmetic Surgery Center
  • New River Dermatology, Blacksburg, Radford – Winner – Best Dermatology Practice
  • Virginia Furniture Market, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Home Furnishings Store
  • Audiotronics, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Home Technology Firm
  • Valley Landscaping, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Landscape Design
  • Crow’s Nest Nursery, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Greenhouse and Nursery
  • Brown Edwards, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Accounting Firm
  • Shelor Motor Mile, Christiansburg – Winner – Best Car Dealer
  • Stifel, Radford – Winner – Best Financial Planning Firm

Shopping

  • East Coasters Bike Shop, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Bicycle Shop
  • Walkabout Outfitter, Blacksburg – Winner – Best Sporting Goods or Outdoor

In addition to these winners, sixty-eight destinations and businesses from the NRV were recognized with second or third place awards. Explore the runners up from the NRV in the Living and Recreation, Food & Drink, Services, and Shopping categories, or read more about Virginia Living’s Best of Virginia 2021 awards.

Learn more about the lifestyle amenities available in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Photo location: Mountain Lake Lodge, Treetop Adventure Course

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 Disc Golf Courses

Play a Round at These NRV Disc Golf Courses

New River Valley, VA – One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors in Virginia’s New River Valley is to play a round of disc golf. Whether you’re a beginner or a disc golf enthusiast, make sure to explore all of these free, public courses in the region!

Golden Hills Disc Golf Course – Christiansburg, VA

Golden Hills is Christiansburg’s 37-hole disc golf course run by Montgomery County Parks & Recreation. It has two separate 19-hole courses, Golden Bear or Black Bear, which share a final hole. Golden Hills has a unique layout and “is one of only 19 [public courses] in the United States with 37 holes.”

Randolph Park Recreation Disc Golf Course – Dublin, VA

This 18-hole disc golf course is located at Randolph Park in Dublin. The course winds through the 87-acre park and is available to the public during park hours.

Disc Golf Course @ The VTCRC – Blacksburg, VA

The disc golf course at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (pictured above) consists of nine holes located throughout Phase I of the research park. Make sure to enjoy the lake views by holes 1 and 2!

Camp Success Disc Golf – Narrows, VA

Camp Success Campground in Narrows has an 18-hole disc golf course available. The campground “boasts approximately a quarter of a mile of frontage along the New River and 500 feet along Wolf Creek.”

Municipal Park Disc Golf Course – Blacksburg, VA

Municipal Park Disc Golf Course is one of the newest in the region. It consists of nine holes and surrounds Blacksburg’s parks and recreation facilities.

Chantilly Farm Disc Golf Course – Floyd, VA

Chantilly Farm has a 9-hole disc golf course that is open to both camping guests and the general public. The camp store offers discs for rent or purchase if players do not have their own available.

Virginia Tech Disc Golf Course – Blacksburg, VA

Virginia Tech Rec Sports opened a new disc golf course in April 2021. This par-62 course is located near the Duck Pond and next to the Virginia Tech Golf Course. It has nine baskets with two tee boxes at each basket.


Disc golf is just one of the many outdoor amenities available throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. Learn more about outdoors in 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.

Enjoy Craft Beer at These NRV Breweries

Enjoy Craft Beer at These NRV Breweries

Note:
September 24, 2021: This blog post, which was originally published in April 2021, was updated to reflect current information about the breweries on this list.

New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has an ever-expanding assortment of breweries throughout the region.  Try these eleven breweries and explore everything the NRV’s craft beer scene has to offer!

Beliveau Farm Brewery – Blacksburg, VA

Just outside Blacksburg, Beliveau Farm Brewery is a truly unique experience because it is the only gluten-free brewery in Virginia.  Beliveau Farm also features a winery, bed and breakfast, and wedding/event space.

 

Buffalo Mountain Brewery – Floyd, VA

Buffalo Mountain Brewery and McDaniel’s Tavern is a small batch brewery in Floyd County. It opened in April 2018 and features tavern fare alongside pretzels, flatbread, and cookies from local Grateful Bread Bakery.

 

Bull & Bones – Blacksburg, VA

Bull & Bones Brewery Bull & Bones brews six craft beers on site in a ten-barrel brewhaus.  While the Christiansburg location is temporarily closed, the Blacksburg location in First & Main is serving brews such as the ever-popular Lunch Pale Ale.

 

Eastern Divide Brewing Company – Blacksburg, VA

Eastern Divide Brewing Company Eastern Divide Brewing Company is located in the Blacksburg Industrial Park.  The building has a modern feel and features a tasting room, event space, and a large outdoor area.  Eastern Divide serves unique brews and delicious food.

 

Iron Tree Brewing Company – Christiansburg, VA

Iron Tree Brewing Company is the NRV’s newest brewery. It opened in May 2021 on Roanoke Street in Downtown Christiansburg. The tasting room is a former furniture store!

 

Long Way Brewing – Radford, VA

Long Way Brewing

Photo courtesy of Long Way Brewing

Named after Mary Draper Ingles’ long journey home to the NRV in the 1700s, Long Way Brewing is the first brewery located within the city limits of Radford.  It opened in December 2020 in a preserved former church.

 

The Maroon Door / Off the Mall Brewing – Blacksburg, VA

The Maroon Door / Off the Mall Brewing

Photo courtesy of The Maroon Door / Off the Mall Brewing

The Maroon Door / Off the Mall Brewing is a gastropub and brewery located just across from Virginia Tech’s campus in Downtown Blacksburg.  It is one of the NRV’s newest breweries and opened to the public in October 2020.

 

Moon Hollow Brewing Company – Blacksburg, VA

Moon Hollow Brewing Company is located in the revitalized Old Prices Fork Elementary School.  In addition to beer, Moon Hollow also features a selection of non-alcoholic brews. Make sure to bring Fido with you since the patio is pet friendly!

 

Right Mind Brewing – Blacksburg, VA

Right Mind Brewing Located in Lefty’s Main Street Grille on South Main Street in Blacksburg, Right Mind Brewing is temporarily closed.  While you wait for Right Mind Brewing to reopen, the brewery’s creations can still be enjoyed while dining at Lefty’s.

 

Rising Silo Farm Brewery – Blacksburg, VA

Rising Silo Farm BreweryRising Silo Farm Brewery is located in a barn on the farm of Glade Road Growing.  The brewery uses green energy to help brew their beers and non-alcoholic drinks; the barn has 113 solar panels and a solar hot water system.

 

The River Company Restaurant & Brewery– Radford, VA

Located in Pulaski County just across the New River from the City of Radford, The River Company Restaurant & Brewery offers a selection of seasonal and year-round beers.  Enjoy a brew and a view while watching the beautiful sunsets from the balcony overlooking the river.

 

Breweries like these are just some of the specialty beverage makers that contribute to the growing Food Processing & Agribusiness Industry in Virginia’s New River Valley.  Learn more 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.

FloydFest Wins Four Best of the Blue Ridge 2021 Awards

FloydFest Wins Best of the Blue Ridge 2021 Awards

Floyd County, VA – FloydFest won two Best of the Blue Ridge 2021 awards from Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine and was a runner-up in two more categories. FloydFest was the winner or runner-up in the following categories:

  • Music Festival (Overall): Winner
  • Music Festival Missed Most in 2020: Winner
  • Family Friendly Festival: Runner-Up
  • Rowdiest Festival: Runner-Up

Blue Ridge Outdoors had this to say about FloydFest:

“It doesn’t get much better than 100 bands on nine stages over five days. FloydFest is a celebration of all things music and mountains, also featuring outdoor adventures, delicious food, and activities just for kids.”

Missed FloydFest in 2020 and looking forward to attending this year? Blue Ridge Outdoors states, “[t]he festival producers are optimistic about 2021 and already announced the lineup for July 2021, which includes the Avett Brothers, Sturgill Simpson, and Old Crow Medicine Show.”

Read more about FloydFest and all the other Best of the Blue Ridge award winners here.

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

Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities 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 Accolades and Awards in 2020

NRV Accolades and Awards in 2020

New River Valley, VA – Throughout 2020, the New River Valley was frequently recognized for its outstanding lifestyle amenities, business growth, and educational opportunities. The region is truly a premiere destination to live, work, and do business. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades won in 2020 by the counties, city, towns, and universities that comprise Virginia’s New River Valley. Pulaski is 2nd Most Affordable Place to Buy a Home in VA High Quality of Life Floyd Voted Top Tiny Adventure Town 2020 Abundant Outdoor Amenities Harmonia Recognized as one of Virginia's "Fantastic 50" Expanding and Developing Businesses Exelaration Ranked #3 Best Tech Internship by Vault Educating Tomorrow’s Talent RU Ranked #33 Southern Regional University by U.S. News & World Report Top Tier Colleges & Universities Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities here.

Correction: September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.

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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.