Pembroke’s NanoSonic Awarded DOE Grant

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Giles County, VA – U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith recently announced that NanoSonic, Inc., located in Pembroke, was awarded a $1,150,000 U.S. Department of Energy grant for their project to develop hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

NanoSonic’s contributions to fields like chemistry and engineering have attracted prominent clients, including NASA and the Department of Defense. The DOE’s support reaffirms the value of NanoSonic’s work, positioning Virginia’s New River Valley as a stronghold for scientific innovation and energy development. This achievement is a proud reminder of the region’s vibrant future, where pioneering research and a collaborative spirit continue to drive progress.

Read U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith’s full press release here.

Learn more about advanced manufacturing 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.

Giles County Receives Broadband Grant

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Giles County, VA – Cardinal News recently reported that residents of Giles County now are a step closer to reliable, high-speed internet access. Giles County was one of 25 applicants to apply for funding from the Virginia Telecommunication Initiative handled by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development and received 4.2 million for their broadband project.

According to the article “Giles County was able to celebrate more than its state grant of $4.2 million. It also received a $700,000 grant for the project from the Appalachian Regional Commission, and with other funds supplied by its ISP partner, Pemtel Telephone Cooperative, the county wound up with more than $5.5 million.”

The county’s broadband initiative will lay down 100 miles of fiber-optic cable, 33 miles of which will be underground and reach about 630 residences and businesses when complete.

Broadband has become as essential today as electricity was in previous generations. It enables telemedicine, online education, remote work, and countless other services that significantly impact quality of life and economic growth. This new infrastructure will bring a much-needed boost to connectivity, empowering residents and strengthening the region’s economic potential.

Read the full Cardinal News 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.

Community Health Center of the NRV Ranks Among Top 10% Nationally

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New River Valley, VA – The Community Health Center of the New River Valley (CHCNRV) recently reported that they have been recognized with five awards from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), including the Gold Leader in Health Center Quality status. This award highlights the clinical quality efforts of CHCNRV as being in the top ten percent of Federally Qualified Health Centers and similar entities.

The press release states that “the awards, which are based on calendar year 2022 data include:

  • Health Center Quality Leader indicating best overall clinical quality measure performance among all health centers nationally.
  • Access Enhancer recognizes the total number of patients and the patients who receive at least one comprehensive service.
  • Advancing Health Access Enhancer Technology for Quality and Advancing Healthcare Information Technology (HIT) for integrating high levels of technology to enhance patient care and access.
  • Health Disparities Reducer for improvements in areas such as low birth weight, hypertension control, and/or uncontrolled diabetes and/or meeting benchmarks for all racial/ethnic groups served.”

The criteria for badge recognition can be found here.

Read the press release from CHCNRV here.

Photo by RDNE Stock project


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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.

Giles County Awarded Federal Grant for Glen Lyn Plant

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Giles County, VA – 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.

Giles County and Appalachian Power are partnering together to discover new ways to use the 45,000 square foot building. They hope that the brick building can be repurposed and brought back to life. Its location and access to infrastructure make the building an excellent location for any business looking for new space.

The county and Appalachian Power administrators will use the $200,000 federal grant as well as $50,000 from the local industrial development authority to determine next steps for the property.

Read the full article here.

Photo from Cardinal News

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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.

NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2024 Awards

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New River Valley, VA – 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.

The Best of Virginia 2024 award winners from Virginia’s New River Valley are listed below in their respective categories.

BEST FOOD & DRINK

  • Best Barbecue Restaurant – Bluegrass BBQ, Pembroke
  • Best Breakfast/Bruch Restaurant – Palisades, Eggleston
  • Best Burger Joint – Dude’s Drive In, Christiansburg
  • Best Coffee shop or Roaster – Sugar and Flour, Pearisburg
  • Best Fine Dining – The Palisades Restaurant, Eggleston
  • Best Food Truck – Cabo Fish Taco, multiple Locations
  • Best Ice Cream Shop – Scoops Arcade, Pembroke
  • Best Indian Restaurant – Indian Garden Restaurant, Blacksburg
  • Best Italian Restaurant – Sal’s Italian Restaurant, Radford
  • Best Mexican Restaurant – LaBarranca Mexican Grill, Pearisburg
  • Best Outdoor Dining – The Farmhouse, Christiansburg
  • Best Pizzeria – Sal’s Italian Restaurant, Radford
  • Best Sandwich Shop – Macado’s, multiple locations
  • Best Steakhouse – The Farmhouse, Christiansburg
  • Best Vegan, Vegetarian or Gluten Free – Gillies, Blacksburg
  • Best Chocolatier – Sugar Magnolia, Blacksburg
  • Best Community Supported Agriculture – Glade Road Growing, Blacksburg
  • Best Farmers Market – Blacksburg Farmers Market, Blacksburg
  • Best Specialty Gourmet Food Shop – The Bread Basket, Floyd
  • Best Wine Shop – Vintage Cellar, Blacksburg
  • Best Brewery – Eastern Divide Brewing Company, Blacksburg
  • Best Cocktails – Lush Lounge, Floyd
  • Best Distillery – Salty Stash Distillery, Dublin
  • Best Winery – Iron Heart Winery, Allisonia

BEST LIVING AND RECREATION

  • Best Annual Charity Event – Cancer, Kids, and Christmas, Narrows
  • Best Art Event – Steppin’ Out, Blacksburg
  • Best Art Gallery – Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg
  • Best Entertainment Center for Adults – McClain’s at First and Main, Blacksburg
  • Best Festival – Steppin’ Out, Blacksburg
  • Best Love Sign – LOVEwork in Pearisburg, Pearisburg
  • Best Movie Theater – The Lyric, Blacksburg
  • Best Music Venue – The Floyd Country Store, Floyd
  • Best Special Event Venue – Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
  • Best Dog Groomer – M & J Pet Grooming, Pearisburg
  • Best Veterinary Hospital – Town and Country Veterinary Clinic, Christiansburg
  • Best K-12 Independent School – Blacksburg New School, Blacksburg
  • Best Bed & Breakfast – Lily Valley Inn, Pearisburg
  • Best Historic Site – Mabry Mill, Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Best Resort – Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
  • Best State Park – Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin
  • Best Tourist Attraction – Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Best Golf Course – Castle Rock Golf Course and Recreation, Pembroke

BEST SERVICES:

  • Best Counseling or Therapy Practice – New River Valley Community Services, multiple locations
  • Best Dental Practice – Radford Family Dental, Radford
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Practice – NRV Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Blacksburg, and Radford
  • Best Pediatric Practice – New River Valley Pediatrics, multiple locations
  • Best Cosmetic Surgery Practice – New River Dermatology, Blacksburg
  • Best Dermatology Practice – New River Dermatology, multiple locations
  • Best Hair Salon – The Hair Loft, Radford
  • Best Spa – Allure Spa and Skin Health Boutique, Blacksburg
  • Best Greenhouse and Nursery – Crow’s Nest Greenhouses, Blacksburg
  • Best Kitchen and Bath Design Firm – Dublin Home Store, Dublin
  • Best Landscape Design – Back to Nature Landscaping & Construction, Blacksburg
  • Best Retirement Community – Warm Hearth Village, Blacksburg
  • Best Accounting Firm – Darryl Gillespie P.C, CPA Christiansburg
  • Best Auction Company – Linkous Auctioneers, Blacksburg
  • Best Bank – Truist, multiple locations
  • Best Car Dealer – Shelor Motor Mile, Christiansburg
  • Best Financial Planning Firm – Plott & French Financial Advisors, Radford
  • Best Funeral Home – Kendall Funeral Home, Pembroke
  • Best Law Firm – Patrick K. Moore, Blacksburg and Radford

BEST SHOPPING

  • Best Bookstore – Blacksburg Books, Blacksburg
  • Best Consignment Shop – Treasure Trove Thrift Store, Christiansburg
  • Best Fine Jewelry Store – P.R. Sturgill Fine Jewely, Radford
  • Best Florist Shop – Northside Flower Shop. Radford
  • Best Flower Farm – Stonecrop Farmers, Newport
  • Best Men’s Clothing – Tractor Supply, Pearisburg
  • Best Sporting Goods or Outdoor Outfitter – Tangent Outfitters, Pembroke
  • Best Women’s Clothing Store – Fringe Benefit, Blacksburg

In addition to these winners, eighty-three destinations and businesses from the NRV were recognized with second or third place awards. Read more about Virginia Living’s Best of Virginia 2024 awards here.Learn more about the lifestyle amenities available 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.

Trail Center Opens to Visitors in Giles County

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Giles County, VA – 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.

The 3,000 square foot center features public restrooms, parking, outdoor decks, interior gathering spaces, and changing rooms. The facility also provides maps, itineraries, and brochures that will help connect visitors to the natural beauty of the surrounding New River Valley.

Giles County Administrator Chris McKlarney said that “The Giles County Trail Center was designed to be a place where guests can be immersed in the outdoor adventure and amenities found throughout our region. Given the remote nature of this area and tremendous increase in number of day users over the past few years, creating adequate facilities to accommodate this growth was necessary.”

Read the full press release from Mountain Lake Lodge here.

Breathtaking views, mountain hikes, and water activities make the New River Valley a natural fit for outdoor recreation. Virginia’s New River Valley is a place where you can find your escape. Discover more about 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.

Remote Workers Love the NRV

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

Floyd and Giles Locations Win 2024 Best of Blue Ridge Awards

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

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

Winners:

Runners Up:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read the full list of rankings here.

Read the methodology behind the report here.

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

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