New LewisGale Montgomery ER Coming to Christiansburg

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Montgomery County, VA – WDBJ7 recently reported that work has begun on a new emergency room in the town of Christiansburg. This will be LewisGale’s first freestanding ER in the New River Valley. There are 2 others located in the Roanoke area.

HCA LewisGale Montgomery COO Devin Tobin said, “We have seen it really enhance the ER services in a community and bring that care closer to home. So, we when looking about where do we put the next one, how do we bring care to the community, Christiansburg was the perfect selection for that.”

WDBJ7 stated that “the ER will be an extension of LewisGale Montgomery and the two facilities will work together to provide patient care.”

Watch the full story here.

Photo by Pixabay

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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 Researchers Receive Funding for Cybersecurity Projects

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that “the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI) will be investing approximately $700,000 in seven experiential learning projects that give students crucial cybersecurity, on-the-job training in areas such as privacy protection and mobile software development.”

Of the seven projects selected, Radford University spearheads a project about technology enabled internships with mentoring and Virginia Tech leads another one concerning the “use and abuse of personal information” with technology.

According to CCI’s website they are “Virginia’s main access point for cybersecurity research, innovation, workforce development, and news. In this community, researchers find funding and collaboration, students discover diverse career possibilities, and new innovations come to life.”

Read the full article here.

See the full list of projects here.

The NRV has exceptional education programs from world-class universities that are producing some of the best IT workforce in the country, making the region a natural fit for companies in the cybersecurity and the information technology sectors. Discover more about the innovative IT landscape in the NRV here.

Photo by fauxels

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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.

Innovative Startups Find Opportunities in the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) is the perfect location for businesses to flourish. It’s not hard to see why many startup businesses choose to be part of the economic landscape in the NRV. With its easy access to talent, strategic location, and an innovative businesses community, the NRV is a natural fit for any business.

Several NRV startups are innovating in different sectors across the region.

  • Good Food Groups, LLC located in Pulaski County seeks to manufacture functional foods that contain a substance that helps individuals maintain weight, build muscle, and lose fat. They were recently selected to participate in the RAMP program that gives them access to regional resources and support. Learn more here.
  • MacroVation, LLC also located in Pulaski County designs sustainable biomaterials such as additives that rend plastics biodegradable after use and 3D printable materials from seaweed to manufacture medical devices. MacroVation was also selected to be part of the RAMP program.
  • Fermi Energy in Montgomery County is developing electric vehicle batteries that would help solve supply chain issues of hard-to-get materials like cobalt and nickel. Their goal is to create a battery that would come from locally sourced materials. Through Virginia Tech, they won $2.9 million in grant money from the U.S Department of Energy. Read the full story of them in the Cardinal News here.
  • Vegg Inc. has also found a home in Pulaski County. They are introducing novel solutions for indoor farming by repurposing old school buildings for vertical farming companies. WSLS recently featured a story on them. You can watch the story here.
  • Cowden Technologies in Montgomery County is automating the logistical requirements of uncrewed systems. This is a system that uses robotics to support the drone ecosystem. Cowden Technologies was recently accepted into the NVIDIA Inception program that will give them access to cutting edge technology, venture capitalists, and technical resources. Read the press release here.
  • MOVA Technologies in Pulaski County uses air capture technology for air purification and air pollution control. They recently closed on a $2 million seed funding round that will help with the organization’s growth. Read the full MOVA press release here.

Find out how your business can become a part of this innovative landscape 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.

Fall Activities in the NRV

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Note:
September 26, 2023: This blog post, which was originally published in September 2022, was updated to reflect current information about fall activities on this list.

New River Valley, VA – Fall is a beautiful time to be 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 a fall in the NRV! The list below has a little something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival

Image courtesy of Sinkland Farms

Celebrating its 32nd season, the fan favorite Sinkland Farms puts on a Pumpkin Festival that is unrivaled in the region. This year, the festival runs every weekend from the end of September  to October 29th 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 Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday in September and closes 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 town’s 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 26th year, the Highlanders Festival is a partnership between the City of Radford and Radford University. The festival began in the mid-1990s. It has since tripled in size since the original festival, and now attracts an estimated crowd of 10,000. NRV’s fall leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for the festival and the events are awe-inspiring! The 2023 festival is held on 10/14 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 Blue Ridge Parkway travelers and features cultural demonstrations, and a decades-long tradition of Sunday afternoon music.

6. Randolph Park Halloween Light Show

Image from Daklights

Randolph Park in Pulaski County hosts a spooky light show that is set up to Halloween themed music. The lights will turn on October 9th at 7pm and run every night through Halloween. Plan your visit at daklights.com.

7. St. Albans Sanatorium Haunted House

St. Albans Sanatorium was constructed in 1892 just across from the City of Radford overlooking the New River. It first functioned as an elite Lutheran boys school. In 1916 the property became a hospital with innovative treatments for psychiatric patients. The Sanatorium has received many paranormal investigators over the years, and they say that some of the patients have yet to leave the building. Every year the St. Albans Sanatorium opens for a haunted house experience. Tickets are available for every Friday and Saturday in October.

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 County Arts & Crafts Festival Series

Image courtesy of Augusta Poplar Art

This Arts & Craft Festival has been sponsored by the General Federation Woman’s Club since 1982. This year over 180 artisans and craftsmen will offer their handcrafted wares for sale including ceramics, quilts, afghans, hand-woven baskets, and many other uniquely crafted items. You don’t want to miss this single day event happening in Floyd County on Oct 7, 2023!

10. Pearisburg Annual Scarecrow Trail and Festival

Photo by Charles Parker on Pexel

The Scarecrow Festival kicks off with a scarecrow trail and will run from October 2nd through November 1st . The scarecrows are scattered around the Town of Pearisburg for all to enjoy. The Scarecrow Festival is on Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 10am until 3pm. With contests like best pet photo, the cutest baby, or the best Halloween costume contest; there is fun for all ages! Find out more here.

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.

CHP Announces First Home Sold in New River Home Trust

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Montgomery County, VA – Community Housing Partners (CHP) recently reported on a remarkable moment in the New River Valley, the first home sold under the New River Home Trust.

The New River Home Trust was created in 2023 as a partnership between CHP, Montgomery County, and the Town of Blacksburg to increase access to affordable housing. The New River Home Trust offers a unique approach to homeownership by dividing the ownership into two distinct deeds. One deed is for the land and another for the home, making homeownership a reality by removing the cost of the land.

The land trust model is a forward-thinking movement that will help make home ownership in Montgomery County more accessible and affordable for families.

Read the press release here.

The New River Valley has a variety of housing options. Whether you’re based in one of the NRV’s walkable downtowns or along a country road, if you’re looking for a starter home or high-end golf course living, the NRV is the natural fit for your home. Learn more about housing 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 Community College Ranks #4 for Best College Tuition in Virginia

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Pulaski County, VA– New River Community College ranks fourth for Best College Tuition in the state of Virginia by SmartAsset. SmartAsset determined the rankings for Best College Tuition by looking at five different categories: student retention rate, tuition, student cost of living, scholarships and grant offerings, and starting salary for new graduates.

New River Community College (NRCC) is a comprehensive community college, with locations in Pulaski County and Montgomery County, that has earned a reputation for their first-class instruction. NRCC has a wide selection of courses that can help prepare any student for various occupational programs or the opportunity for college transfer courses.

NRCC also participates in the Access to Community College Education (ACCE) program. ACCE is an economic development public/private partnership in the New River Valley that makes college available debt-free to high school and home-school students by funding NRCC tuition for two years. Graduates of the ACCE program are prepared to join the workforce or transfer to a four-year college without any debt.

Learn more about the ACCE program here.

Discover more about New River Community College and higher education in the NRV here.

See the full rankings of colleges 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.

Four NRV Businesses Named Best Employers in Virginia by Forbes

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New River Valley, VA – Forbes recently released their 5th annual list of America’s Best Employers by State. Several New River Valley (NRV) companies made the list for Virginia. Forbes surveyed 70,000 workers in all 50 states in partnership with research firm Statisa. The survey covered questions such as working conditions, company image, potential for development, compensation packages, diversity, and more. Virginia had 90 companies selected as America’s Best Employers.

The NRV companies are:

Read the full list here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is the perfect location to let your business flourish. The area is affordable, innovative, and enjoyable. The NRV has easy access to talent, a strategic location, and an innovative business community. Discover why the NRV is a natural fit for your business here.

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

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

Virginia Tech Agribusiness Program Featured in Valley Business FRONT

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech’s agribusiness program was recently featured in Valley Business FRONT. The article highlighted that Virginia Tech is “among the top ten institutions in America for agricultural degrees.”

According to the article, agribusiness is an industry that is continuing to evolve thanks to technology. Virginia Tech is looking to prepare students for both emerging and traditional trends in agribusiness which will allow them access to one of the largest industries in the world.

Read the full Valley Business FRONT here.

Agriculture has been a staple in Virginia’s New River Valley for centuries and is full of passionate people who care about the natural environment and locally sourced food. With access to the highly sought after graduates at Virginia Tech, it’s not hard to see why the NRV is a natural fit for agribusiness. Find out how your food processing and agribusiness company can thrive 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.

NRV Organizations Recognized as Top Virginia Employers for Interns

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New River Valley, VA – The Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP) recently recognized 100 organizations as the 2023 Top Virginia Employers for Interns. Multiple organizations throughout Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) were included on this list. The region continues to be recognized as a top location to live, work, and do business.

The award is a collaboration between V-TOP, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) in partnership with the Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Virginia Business Higher Education Council. V-TOP is funded by the General Assembly’s Commonwealth Innovative Internship Fund and Program.

The NRV recipients are:

The 2023 Top Virginia Employer Intern award recipients were recognized for the quality of their internship programs. Those who received the award were evaluated based on efforts to include training for industry certifications, housing allowance, paid time off, security clearance, structured mentorship programs, and exposure to senior leadership.

Review the full list of recipients here.

Companies in Virginia’s New River Valley have the added benefit of the opportunity to enroll their interns in the NRV Experience hosted by Onward NRV. The seven-week long summer program features a series of community excursions, professional development trainings, and networking opportunities for your summer interns. These events connect them with other interns in the region while showcasing lifestyle amenities the New River Valley has to offer. Find out why you should enroll your interns in the NRV Experience 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 Wins Multiple Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards

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New River Valley, VA – Tourism professionals from across Southwest Virginia recently gathered in Wytheville for the fourth annual Celebrate Tourism Summit. The tourism directors in Virginia’s New River Valley won several awards across a variety of categories. The awards are presented by Friends of Southwest Virginia “to celebrate the outstanding work within the tourism industry in Southwest Virginia.” Friends of Southwest Virginia is a non-profit that helps artists, craftspeople, localities, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs mobilize and succeed.

Thirty-eight Southwest Virginia Tourism Awards were given in categories that ranged from tourism leadership, tourism marketing, special events, to visitor services.

The New River Valley won the following awards:

Congratulations to all those who won this year! And to all those who continue to showcase the beauty of Virginia’s New River Valley through their tourism efforts.

View the full list of winners here.

In the NRV, the mountains call you and the New River floods you with peace. The scenery inspires, the people connect, and the work feels easy. Discover why the region is a natural fit 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.