2022 NRV Awards and Accolades

Celebrate the NRV with 2022 Awards and Accolades

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

10 Most Popular NRV Blog Posts of 2022

10 Most Popular NRV Blog Posts of 2022

New River Valley, VA – 2022 was an exciting year in the New River Valley! Explore the ten most popular blog posts of the year from TheNRV.org. The following posts had the most pageviews online.

10. The Future of Trucking Arrives in Pulaski

This post highlighted a Cardinal News article about Trova CV, an NRV start-up company working to transform existing diesel trucks to electric trucks.

9. Financial Agreement Reached in NRV Passenger Rail Expansion

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority and Norfolk Southern announced the financial closing of the agreement which will help bring passenger rail to the NRV within the next few years.

8. World’s Largest 3D Printing Project Finds a Home in Pulaski County

Alquist 3D announced a project to construct 200 3D-printed housing units in Pulaski. It was dubbed the “world’s largest 3D printing project”.

7. Great Ways to Turn Fall into Fun in the NRV

Explore ten things to do in the fall in New River Valley in this popular blog post!

6. Volvo Lands Largest VNR Truck Order to Date

It was announced in March that Performance Trucks, a California-based logistics company, ordered 110 of Volvo’s VNR electric trucks to be manufactured in the company’s NRV factory.

5. Amenities and Recreation Pave the Way for a Renaissance in Pulaski

This blog post featured a Cardinal News piece, titled “Pulaski Reinventing Itself”, which explored the work being done to improve and develop amenities throughout the Town of Pulaski.

4. Radford’s Highly Anticipated Highlander Hotel Set to Open Soon

This blog post highlighted a Virginia Business magazine article promoting the upcoming opening of Radford’s new Highlander Hotel. The hotel and conference center is scheduled to open in Spring 2023.

3. Three NRV Businesses Named Best Places to Work in VA

Modea, Aeroprobe, and Community Housing Partners were all named on the 12th annual list of best places to work in Virginia by Virginia Business magazine.

2. Industry and Jobs Flowing into the New River Valley

This blog post celebrated four 2021 business announcements throughout the New River Valley that were featured in a Virginia Business magazine article. In total, the four announcements brought 274 new jobs and over $29 million in capital investment to the region.

1. Passenger Rail Station Proposed for Former NRV Mall Site in Christiansburg

The most popular blog post of 2022 highlighted an article from The Roanoke Times detailing that the proposed NRV passenger rail station would be in one of two locations at Uptown Christiansburg development (formerly the NRV Mall).

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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.

Great Ways to Turn Fall into Fun in the NRV

New River Valley, VA – September is a beautiful month in the New River Valley. Daytime temperatures remain summer-like, while crisp evening air subtly transforms the rich green hillsides, mountainsides, and roadsides into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Autumn is the perfect time of year to gather with friends and family and explore the region’s many wonders. So, join us as we explore Fall in the NRV! The list below has something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Sinkland Farm

Image courtesy of Sinkland Farm

Celebrating its 31st season, the fan favorite Sinkland Farms puts on a Pumpkin Festival that is unrivaled in the region. This year, the festival runs from September 23rd to October 30th and celebrates all things Fall. Featuring live music, local vendors, hayrides, and a dizzying corn maze, the Pumpkin Festival is an NRV staple that has something for everyone.

2. Doe Creek Farm

Apples have been grown on Doe Creek Farm for over 100 years. The pick-your-own apple orchard is perfect for kids and the “dwarf trees” allow even the smallest family member a piece of the action. Doe Creek is open every Saturday beginning 9/9 and ending when the fruit has been cleared from the trees. Check their website before you go to make sure you are up to date on hours and accepted forms of payment.

3. Virginia Tech Football

Image courtesy of Virginia Tech Athletics

It can’t just be a coincidence that football rhymes with Fall! Gameday in Blacksburg is one of the Towns great experiences. Even those not into the sport can enjoy the sights and sounds of 66,000 dedicated fans cheering on the Hokies. The fervor created during the team’s entrance song, Metallica’s famous Enter Sandman, has registered as a small earthquake on the Richter Scale.

4. Highlanders Festival

Image courtsey of Radford University

Celebrating its 25th year, the Highlanders Festival is a partnership between the City of Radford and Radford University. The festival began in the mid-1990s with a modest crowd of 3,000. It has since tripled in size, and now attracts an estimated crowd of 10,000. You don’t even have to be of Scots-Irish origin to attend (although if you plan to don a kilt, it helps). The Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia provide a beautiful backdrop for the fall festival and the events are awe-inspiring! The festival is held on 10/8 and is open to the general public with free admission.

5. Mabry Mill

Image courtesy of Jeremy Riffe

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the sights and sounds of rural Appalachia fill the air at Mabry Mill during the Fall. The old mill makes for a great “leg-stretching” spot for Parkway travelers and features cultural demonstrations, and a decades-long tradition of Sunday afternoon music.

6. Iron Heart Winery

Stock Image

Iron Heart Winery lives on a farm and was founded by a father-son team. Located in Pulaski County and built from the ground up, the farm’s history dates to America’s Industrial Revolution, circa 1882. The winery is a model of agro-tourism with a diverse array of activities and experiences that can be tailored to fit the needs of just about any guest. From cabin rentals to weddings, Iron Heart Winery is a must-see for a Fall trip in the NRV.

7. Pete Dye River Course

Fall is the perfect time of year to hit the links. The NRV is home to the stunning Pete Dye River Course. Located near the City of Radford, the 18-hole course is one of the best in the region. Sunshine, cool air, and fairways bordered by the beautiful New River make the River Course an easy pick for our Fall list!

8. New River Trail State Park

Image courtesy of Jeremy Riffe

New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the Town of Pulaski. The trail’s gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike, and ride horseback.

9. Floyd Music in the Mountains Concert Series

Image courtesy of the Town of Floyd

Music in the Mountains is a concert series that is sure to capture the ear of the music lover in your life. Fall in Floyd is perfect and the addition of local artists serenading as the sun sets is about as good as it gets. Put a priority on this series as the last date is at the end of September. Do not fret if you miss it this year however, the series wil be back in full swing beginning June 2023.

10. Hiking the Applachain Trail

Photo courtesy of Alyssa Moody

Giles County is an outdoor lovers mecca. The county boasts multiple access points to the Appalachian Trail and offers hikes for all skill and ability levels. For those who would like to notch off a piece of the AT without breaking a sweat, the Pearis Cemetery Trail is a fantastic option. Located just outside of the Town of Pearisburg, the trail is level and mostly gravel. There are even a couple of benches for sitting and soaking up the Fall colors. Budget about an hour (at a leisurely pace) for the out-and-back trail.

Find more things to do each day on our Community Calendar powered by Next3Days.

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.

Business Facilities Ranks the NRV #8 in Recovery Jobs Growth for 2022

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (also known as Virginia’s New River Valley or the NRV) made the Business Facilities list of top-ranked locations (metro) in the category of Best Recovery Metro Areas.

The region secured the #8 spot on the list with a strong showing in the “Recovery Metro Areas” category. The ranking comes by way of the largest percentage gain in total employment from May 2021 to May 2022 based on U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics data.

Image courtsey of Business Facilities

The state of Virginia posted a strong showing in BF’s 2022 State Rankings Report, earning a #2 spot for Best Business Climate, #1 for Best Tech Talent Pipeline and Best Cyber Security, and #2 For Best Customized Workforce Training.

The NRV has an excellent workforce that is fueled by great higher education institutions like Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College. Plus, the endless lifestyle amenities make it an excellent place to live.

For more information, visit Virginia’s New River Valley.

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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.

 
Top Ten Posts of 2020

Giles County Hikes with Views Featured in Go Hike Virginia

Giles County, VA – Sweeping vistas, fresh mountain air, and abundant wildlife are just a few reasons to get out and explore Giles County. Go Hike Virginia recently featured an article detailing a trio of trails that are sure to please those yearning for picture-perfect panoramas.

Here’s a list of the Giles County trails featured in the article:

Kelly’s Knob: A Scenic Appalachian Trail Hike Near Blacksburg, Virginia

All elevation gain is experienced within the first .5 mile of this 4-mile gem located just outside of beautiful Blacksburg, VA. The out and back trail is pet friendly and is rated as moderately difficult.

Sugar Run Mountain: A Vista-Filled Trail Near Pearisburg, Virginia

This 10.8-mile loop hike offers rewarding views of the beautiful blue ridge mountains near Pearisburg, VA. The hike is strenuous and offers 2000 vertical feet of elevation gain! Budget at least 5 hours for this one and bring plenty of water!

Angel’s Rest: Big Views in Pearisburg, Virginia

This 5.0-mile hike is far from easy, but the double dose of far-reaching views makes this hike an absolute must-do when in mountainous Giles County.

Read the full article, including expanded details about each of the trails, here

Find out more about outdoor activities 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.

Regional Partnership Creates Two-Phase River/Trail Center in Giles County

Giles County, VA – Giles County has announced a partnership with the New River Valley Regional Commission and the Friends of Southwest Virginia on the development of a new River/Trail Center.

The project will be located on the grounds of the historic Mountain Lake property, and will serve as an information hub for the plethora of outdoor recreation opportunities and services in picturesque Giles County.

Those who opt to add an activity such as mountain biking or paddling to the day’s adventures can rest easy knowing that logistical considerations have been made. Per the announcement, “Shuttle services are slated to connect visitors to hiking trails, mountain biking systems, and paddling launch locations throughout the County”.

Photo Credit: Giles County

A second planned phase of the project proposes the construction of a new trail connecting the Center to Mountain Lake Lodge and the peak of Bald Knob. “The New River Valley Regional Commission will be supporting the project by assisting with environmental coordination and other regulatory compliance requirements”.

Learn more about outdoor recreation 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.

New River Valley Ranks #3 for Tech Jobs Growth in the U.S.

New River Valley, VAAxios recently published an article titled “The New Tech Hubs”. The article features data from The Brookings Institute and details that tech jobs in the New River Valley grew by more than 12% from 2019 to 2020 making the region the 3rd highest for rate of growth in the entire U.S.

The Axios piece quotes Brookings’ Mark Muro, a co-author of the report saying;

“Tech jobs drive innovation, pay well, and have substantial multipliers, for local economies and the national one.”

Source: Brookings Institute analysis of Emsi Burning Glass Data

The Brookings report went on to outline the necessity of state funding as it relates to continued growth within the sector. “Renewed state investments in public higher education will be necessary in building up new tech hubs”. The writers go on to recommend four things to ensure strong growth within the tech sector:

Click here to learn more about the tech industry in Virginia’s New River Valley.

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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.

2021 Accolades and Awards for the NRV

2021 Accolades and Awards for the NRV

New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley was frequently recognized during 2021 as a premier place to live, work, and do business. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades won this year by the NRV’s counties, city, towns, schools, and universities.

Radford #9 Best Place to Raise a Family in VALife is Wonderful in Virginia’s New River Valley

FloydFest Wins Four Best of the Blue Ridge 2021 AwardsThe NRV is Known for Its Unique Festivals, Destinations, and Businesses

Lane Stadium Voted Best Football Stadium in ACCEnjoy Sports and Recreation Across the NRV

NRV Tech Companies Make Inc. 5000 List of America’s Fastest-Growing CompaniesCompanies in the Virginia’s New River Valley are Thriving and Growing

VT and Radford Among Best Value Colleges in VirginiaThe NRV Offers High Quality Educational Opportunities

Explore more NRV accolades and awards 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 Most Popular NRV Posts of 2021

10 Most Popular NRV Posts of 2021

New River Valley, VA – 2021 has been a busy year for Virginia’s New River Valley. The region had important project announcements that brought new investment and jobs. Businesses, universities, schools, and communities won accolades and awards. Recap this eventful year with a list of the ten most popular posts published in 2021 on TheNRV.org. The following posts had the most pageviews online.

43 NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2021 Awards

10. 43 NRV Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2021 Awards

Businesses and destinations from across the New River Valley were honored in the Best of Virginia 2021 awards from Virginia Living magazine. Click here to see the winners.

9. Radford #9 Best Place to Raise a Family in VA

Radford was ranked the ninth best place to raise a family in Virginia for 2021 by HomeSnacks.com. The city has a lower cost of living and lower crime rates than the national average, which makes it one of Virginia’s most family-friendly places to live!

8. Blacksburg Featured on ESPN’s Ultimate College Road Trip

Virginia Tech’s 2021 football season opener against UNC in Lane Stadium was the first stop on ESPN.com’s nationwide college football extravaganza.

NRV Communities Among Top 20 Safest Cities in VA

7. NRV Communities Among Top 20 Safest Cities in VA

The National Council for Home Safety and Security found that Blacksburg, Radford, and Christiansburg are all among the top 20 safest cities in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

6. Oransi to Establish First Manufacturing Facility and Create 101 New Jobs in Radford

In April 2021, it was announced that Oransi would establish the company’s first manufacturing facility in the City of Radford. The company will invest $5.6 million in the project and create 101 new jobs.

Enjoy Craft Beer at These NRV Breweries

5. Enjoy Craft Beer at These NRV Breweries

This blog post lists the eleven craft breweries located throughout Virginia’s New River Valley. Visit one or more and explore the ever-expanding assortment of breweries in the region!

4. Riner is Virginia’s Best Small Town to Live In for 2021

HomeSnacks.com listed Riner as Virginia’s best small town to live in for 2021. When calculating the ratings, the folks at HomeSnacks evaluated small towns across the Commonwealth with populations under 1,000.

Moog Inc. to Expand and Create 75 New Jobs in Christiansburg

3. Moog Inc. to Expand and Create 75 New Jobs in Christiansburg

It was announced in February 2021 that Moog Inc. would invest $10.7 million to relocate from one of its Blacksburg facilities to the former Dish Network building in Falling Branch Corporate Park in Christiansburg. The company will transfer existing jobs to the new facility and create 75 new jobs.

2. Blacksburg High School Among Top 100 STEM High Schools in U.S.

U.S. News & World Report ranked Blacksburg High School among the top 100 STEM high schools across the nation. BHS also ranked #21 among all public high schools in Virginia, which was nine spots higher than 2020.

10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

1. 10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

Originally published in 2018, this blog post was updated in Summer 2021 to reflect the most current information about fun summer activities in Virginia’s New River Valley.

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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.