Recreation Economy Growing in Giles County

Recreation Economy Growing in Giles County

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Giles County, VA – The recreation economy is growing and expanding in Giles County. The county is one of only ten communities across the country to participate in the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). According to the EPA, “[t]he Recreation Economy for Rural Communities planning assistance program helps communities identify strategies to grow their outdoor recreation economy and revitalize their Main Streets.”

Giles County was one of the ten inaugural communities selected to participate in this project, which started in 2019. Here is how the EPA described the Giles County project:

“Giles County, Virginia, worked with the USDA Forest Service to manage and use Cascades Falls and other natural assets to attract residents and visitors to downtown Pembroke, Narrows, and other communities in the county.”

Watch this video to learn more about Giles County’s project for the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program:

Watch the video directly on YouTube here.

Learn more about the Recreation Economy for Rural Communities Program here.

Explore Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

Photo credit: Photo by Alissa Moody.

###

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

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

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.

###

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

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – Virginia 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.

NanoSonic Graduates from VALET

NanoSonic Graduates from VALET Trade Accelerator Program

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Giles County, VA – NanoSonic is one of the new graduates of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s VALET trade accelerator program. It was announced in July that eight companies from across Virginia had graduated from the program.

VALET stands for Virginia Leaders in Export Trade. According to VEDP, “VALET is a two-year international business acceleration program that offers resources provided by the Commonwealth [of Virginia] and professional services from private-sector partners. Following a very thorough evaluation process, only 25 companies per year are accepted into the VALET program.”

NanoSonic was originally accepted into the VALET program in 2019. They have spent the last two years participating in the program, which “provides participating companies with international sales plan development services, assistance from a team of experienced international service providers, international business meetings with potential partners, educational events, and customized market research.”

Read the press release about NanoSonic’s graduation from the VALET program here. Learn more about NanoSonic here.

Learn more about VEDP’s VALET program and international trade in Virginia here.

Explore manufacturing in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

###

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.

Pearisburg Named One of Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns

Pearisburg Named One of Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns

/2 Comments/in , , /by

Giles County, VA – Pearisburg was named one of Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

Here’s what the article, titled “Discovering Virginia’s Picturesque Mountain Towns”, had to say about things to do in Pearisburg:

“An official Appalachian Trail community, from Pearisburg you can walk the world’s most famous footpath from town up to Angels Rest, revealing a worthy panorama of the enveloping New River Valley. While up on Pearis Mountain, walk a bit further to Wilburn Valley Overlook, lording over rural Virginia hinterlands. Hike to incredible and large Cascade Waterfall in nearby Pembroke. The New River beckons, too. Canoe, kayak or raft a section of the sometimes brawling, always beautiful waterway, featuring calm stretches mixed with mostly Class II rapids. Outfitters are nearby and there to serve you with boat rental and shuttle service. The New is also a nationally recognized smallmouth bass fishery.”

See what else the Virginia Tourism Corporation has to say about Pearisburg here.

Learn more about Pearisburg and Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

###

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

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

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.

###

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.

Mountain Lake Among Top Sustainable Destinations in Virginia

Mountain Lake Among Top Sustainable Destinations in Virginia

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Giles County, VA – Mountain Lake was recently featured as one of the top stunning, sustainable destinations in Virginia by the Virginia Tourism Corporation. The blog article, titled “4 Stunning Destinations That Define Sustainability in Virginia”, highlighted destinations that are “leading the way in sustainable practices that preserve the land and waters of [the] vibrant state” of Virginia.


Here’s what the article had to say about Mountain Lake Lodge:

“The historic Mountain Lake Lodge – where the iconic movie “Dirty Dancing” was filmed – is part of the non-profit Mountain Lake Conservancy, protecting 2,600 acres of picturesque Appalachian highlands. The untamed forest ecosystem safeguards stream water quality while protecting lesser seen flora and fauna, including the wide lip orchid and sought-for bird species like the Northern saw-whet owl and yellow-bellied sapsucker. The land, laced with enticing hiking trails leading to overlooks such as Bald Knob and Butt Mountain, is also used for scientific research. After a rewarding hike on the conservancy property, enjoy locally sourced farm-to-table dining at the on-site restaurant, Harvest. Then you can overnight at the Main Stone Lodge, a rustic cabin or modern mountain home, all set at 4,000 feet on Virginia’s highest lake.”


Read about all the sustainable destinations highlighted in the article here.

Learn more about Mountain Lake Conservancy and Mountain Lake Lodge here.

Learn more about Giles County, a Virginia’s New River Valley community, here.

###

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.

Mountain Lake Lodge Wins The Knot’s Best of Weddings 2021 Award

Mountain Lake Lodge Wins The Knot’s Best of Weddings 2021 Award

/0 Comments/in , , /by
Giles County, Virginia – Mountain Lake Lodge is one of the winners of The Knot’s Best of Weddings 2021 award for wedding venues. The venue, located in Pembroke, is considered one of the top-rated vendors of the year by the leading wedding website. According to The Knot, the Best of Weddings “recognizes top wedding vendors across the country. This prestigious honor represents the highest rated vendors on The Knot who are trusted, dependable, and deliver quality service. Only the best wedding vendors (top 5%) receive this award!” This is the second time that Mountain Lake Lodge has won a Best of Weddings award from The Knot. Not only is Mountain Lake Lodge a well-known wedding venue, it is also where much of the iconic 80s movie Dirty Dancing was filmed. Learn more about Mountain Lake Lodge here. Learn more about The Knot’s Best of Weddings 2021 awards here. Explore Giles County, a Virginia’s New River Valley community, here. Photo credit: Photo courtesy of Mountain Lake Lodge.
###
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 Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains

New River Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – The New River was listed among 13 favorite rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains by the editors of Blue Ridge Country magazine. The editors compared at least 50 rivers throughout the Blue Ridge region and created a list of their 13 favorites.

Here’s how the article describes the New River:

“Despite the name, this river is one of the oldest on the planet. It’s even thought to be more ancient than the Appalachian Mountains upon which it meanders. Unlike most rivers which plot their courses at lower elevations, this one runs on the crests and mountaintop basins. Its cuts and curves have exposed rocks dating back over one billion years, while the river itself is thought to be between 10 million and 360 million years old.”

The New River is an essential part of Virginia’s New River Valley. More than 89 miles of the New River run through the region, and it is one of the NRV’s major outdoor attractions. The river flows through most of the communities in the New River Valley and offers many unique experiences to both residents and visitors alike.

Learn more about Virginia’s New River Valley and the New River here.

###

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

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , , , , , /by
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.

###
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.