MELD Printworks Featured in Valley Business FRONT

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Montgomery County, VA – MELD Printworks, a spin off of MELD Manufacturing Corporation, was recently featured in a July 2023 Valley Business FRONT article. MELD Printworks “utilizes the award-winning, patented MELD® process to print 3D components for multiple industries in various alloys, delivering high value parts printed and machined in aluminum, titanium, and copper.” The article highlighted MELD Printworks facility in Christiansburg and the advantage that they have with access to local higher education institutes.

MELD Printworks’ prime location in the New River Valley allows them to develop relationships with Virginia Tech and New River Community College that will help formalize curriculums that will ensure a supply of talent for the company.

The newly spun-off company is also stepping in to fill a much-needed role due to supply chain issues in the forging and casting market. They are uniquely positioned to provide resources and materials at a much faster pace because of their additive manufacturing technology.

Read the full Valley Business FRONT article here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is proud to manufacture using the highest levels of technology and robotics. The NRV is a natural fit for anyone looking for a place to provide manufacturing services. Discover the business advantages of 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.

Virginia Tech Ranks #4 for Best College Campuses in the US

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Note:
September 12, 2023: This blog post, which was originally published in August of 2023, reflected the 2023 information from Niche.com about the Best College Campuses in the U.S. They have since updated their site to show the 2024 listings.

Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech ranks fourth in the 2023 Best College Campuses by Niche.com. The 2023 Best College Campuses rankings are based on student reviews and key statistics using data from the U.S. Department of Education. These top ranked colleges are scored based on campus food, housing, local area, and safety.

Virginia Tech is the Commonwealth’s leading research institution. The university’s main campus, located in Blacksburg, sits on 2,600 acres, and caters to more than 37,000 students. VT offers 250 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, has research facilities across the state, offers study-abroad opportunities, and owns and utilizes an 1,800-acre agriculture research farm.

Discover more about Virginia Tech and Montgomery County here.

See the full rankings of colleges here.

Read more about how the rankings are calculated 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 School Divisions Receive State Grants to Improve Trades Programs

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New River Valley – ABC13 News recently reported that Montgomery County and Pulaski County each received a portion of a $3 million onetime competitive state grant for enhancing their career and technical education skill trades programs.

The Virginia General Assembly approved the grant to support programs offering industry recognized credentials and certificates for in-demand skilled trades programs. 24 schools were selected for the grant, each receiving $125,000 to help lead students into skilled trades and encouraging them to pursue credentials and certifications.

Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons said, “In Virginia and across the nation there are high-paying jobs in the skilled trades that go unfilled due to a shortage of qualified applicants.” She thanked the General Assembly for recognizing the need to prepare more young people in the skilled trades fields.

Montgomery County will purchase welding equipment and provide teacher training for the Governor’s STEM Academy. Pulaski County will use the funds to upgrade automotive technology, electricity, and engineering programs at Pulaski County High School.

Read the full story here.

Read the press release 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.

FAA Conducts Drone Flight Tests at Virginia Tech

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Montgomery County, VA – WSLS News recently reported that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) was at Virginia Tech conducting drone flight tests beyond the visual line of sight. The Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership at Virginia Tech is one of seven different FAA approved designated test sites in the country.

The FAA came to Virginia Tech to conduct tests in complex environments as they are looking to “establish safe and reliable commercial standards for the future” of all air traffic.

Assistant Administrator for NextGen Paul Fontaine said “We expect that by 2026 time frame we’re going to have 2.66 million drones that will be here in the U.S.” With that many drones flying in the air, it will be vital to focus on how to integrate them into the airspace.

Industry leaders, researchers, and partners have collaborated to make the Virginia’s New River Valley one of the strongest regions in the U.S. for the Uncrewed Systems sector. Discover how the NRV is “A Natural Fit” for the growing UAS industry here.

Read the WSLS News story 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.

Spectrum Brands Celebrates 30 Years in Blacksburg

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Montgomery County, VA – Spectrum Brands of Blacksburg recently announced that they were celebrating 30 years of business in the New River Valley. Spectrum Brands is a consumer products company that is trusted around the globe. Their Blacksburg facility manufactures many of Spectrum Brands companion animals and aquatics products.

In the 30 years that Spectrum Brands has operated in Blacksburg, the facility has grown from employing 50 people in manufacturing and warehousing facilities to becoming a major production center for the company. They have experienced years of steady growth in Blacksburg and continue to maintain close ties to the surrounding community.

John Pailthorp, President of Spectrum Brands Global Pet Care said, “We’re proud of our history in Blacksburg, and this anniversary is testament to all our achievements here as well as the team members who make them possible.”

Virginia’s New River Valley region offers great conditions for growing any business. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains with access to major markets, it’s not hard to see why people choose to live and work in the NRV. It’s simply ‘a natural fit.’ To explore all the benefits of living and working in Virginia’s New River Valley, click here.

Read Spectrum Brands’ full press release 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 Companies Announce 2,530 Jobs and $551 Million in Investment Since 2018

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has seen great economic success in the last 5 years. 24 new or expanding companies announced plans to create 2,530 jobs and invest over $551 million in the NRV region.

Onward NRV, the regional economic development organization for Virginia’s New River Valley, reported that the economic growth surpassed their goals set in their Onward 2023 five-year strategic plan for the region. Their original goals were $180 million in new capital investment and 1,720 new jobs.

Onward NRV Executive Director Katie Boswell said, “Virginia’s New River Valley is a great place to live, work, and do business, which is why so many companies have located or expanded in our region over the past five years. We appreciate the businesses who choose to grow in our region, which helps to bring jobs and economic vitality to the New River Valley. Finally, we are grateful for our partnerships with our local economic development organizations, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the many other regional stakeholders that contribute to economic development. Without collaboration, these projects would not be possible.”

Here are some selected wins that highlight the New River Valley’s economic growth and success over the past five years:

  • Volvo Group announced in June 2019 that they would invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America assembly operation in Pulaski County, creating 777 new jobs.
  • Torc Robotics announced in August 2020 they would create 350 new jobs and invest $8.5 million to expand their software development operations in Montgomery County.
  • Oransi announced in April 2021 they would create 101 new jobs and bring their first manufacturing facility to the City of Radford, investing $5.6 million.
  • Hollingsworth & Vose announced in January 2023 that they would expand one of their two existing plants in Floyd County, bringing $40.2 million in capital investment and 25 new jobs.

Browse press releases from NRV economic development announcements over the past five years here.

Explore the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s list of economic development announcements here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is the perfect location to let your business flourish. The area is affordable, accessible, innovative, and enjoyable. To learn more about doing business in Virginia’s New River Valley click 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.

Two NRV Companies Graduate from VALET Trade Accelerator Program

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Montgomery County, VA – Two companies from Virginia’s New River Valley recently graduated from the Virginia’s Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program held by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). VALET is a two-year international business initiative that was established to help support and provide education to Virginia companies interested in increasing their international exports.

In a recent press release, Governor Glen Youngkin announced that ESS Technologies and MELD Manufacturing Corporation , both of Montgomery County, were among the 11 companies that graduated from the VALET program in 2023.

Governor Youngkin said this about the VALET program:

“International trade is a key component of advancing economic growth and prosperity in Virginia, and the VALET program is a vehicle that provides the tools and resources for our existing businesses to expand into the global marketplace. We congratulate these Virginia companies on taking proactive steps to grow international sales and look forward to their future success.”

Read the full press release here.

Learn more about VEDP’s VALET program here.

Learn about the NRV businesses who have participated in the VALET program 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.

Montgomery County Receives GO Virginia Grant for Falling Branch Site

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Montgomery County, VA – Falling Branch Corporate Park located in Christiansburg was one of eight projects recently awarded a GO Virginia grant. Falling Branch will receive $324,000 to help continue the development of the site, taking it from a Tier 4 site to a Tier 5 site. A Virginia Economic Department Partnership (VEDP) Tier 5 site has all the infrastructure and permits in place for development and is business ready.

GO Virginia is a program created to boost Virginia’s economic growth by supporting the development of projects that grow targeted industries and generate jobs in every region of the state.

Virginia Governor Youngkin said,

“These GO Virginia projects exemplify our commitment to fostering economic growth and creating opportunities across various regions. By removing barriers to entrepreneurship, improving industrial sites and increasing the number of Virginia’s shovel-ready sites, we are propelling the growth of targeted industries and clearing pathways for sustainable employment.”

According to GO Virginia, Falling Branch Corporate Park “will be the only Tier 5 site in GO Virginia Region 2 and is designed to support firms in advanced manufacturing, life sciences and biotechnology, as well as logistics.”

Read the Governor’s full press release here.

Read the full list of the June 2023 GO Virginia grant winners here.

Learn more about the Falling Branch Corporate Park and other available sites 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.

Christiansburg Brewery Featured in Valley Business FRONT

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Montgomery County, VA – The Christiansburg craft brewery Iron Tree Brewing Company was recently feature in the June 2023 issues of Valley Business FRONT magazine. In the article “Craft Beer in Christiansburg” the three co-owners talked about the journey to opening a brewery and their desire to drive business to downtown Christiansburg.

Being the only brewery currently in Christiansburg, the owners hope to tap into the locals who no longer wish to make the long drive to other breweries. By creating events like trivia nights and yoga Saturdays, they believe they can draw customers to the downtown area.

Owners of Iron Tree Seth Locklear, Jansen Lee, and Stephen Peter have big plans for the brewery and want to expand to be able to “move more product and let others know” they are there.

Iron Tree Brewing joins a culture of craft beer in Virginia’s New River Valley, and the NRV is excited to have them.

To learn more about what is on tap in the New River Valley click here.

photo by Iron Tree Brewing Company
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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 Farmers Market Trail

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If local vegetables, handpicked flowers, and fresh baked goods are what define your summer, then it’s time to hit the NRV Farmers Market Trail. Each market brings its own finds and, in some cases, music. Summer is a time for meandering through the local artisan-crafted gifts and food. It’s the taste of freshness and the local community that make this region’s farmers markets such a treasure. Explore the exciting flavors that abound in the New River Valley by grabbing your bag and joining us as we delve into the local NRV Farmers Market Trail.

       

1. City of Radford’s Farmers Market

 

Our first stop on this Farmers Market journey is the City of Radford, where The Radford Farmers Market is a staple in Radford every Saturday during the months of April through October from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. rain or shine. Visit them weekly for an ever-changing supply of fresh and local produce, honey, eggs, meats, crafts, pastries, baked goods, flowers, and nursery starts.

       

2. Floyd County’s Farmers Market

 

Traversing through the countryside, our next visit is to The Floyd Farmers Market. It is open every Saturday from May through December from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm under the community pavilion in the center of downtown Floyd. A limited number of vendors are available on Thursdays from 4:00pm-7:00pm. They are proud to provide the community with locally grown, fresh produce and artisanal products and believe that shopping locally is the best way to get fresh, high-quality, and unique products.

     

3. Giles County’s Farmers Markets

 

Giles County flows through several towns and offers up a great variety of local produce at their Narrows Farmers Market and the Pearisburg Community Market. With a chance to chat with local farmers and artisans, you won’t want to miss stopping into Giles County.

The Narrows Farmers Market runs Saturdays 9am – 1pm at 135 Monroe Street and offers tables already onsite to accommodate several vendors and a sheltered pavilion for rain coverage.

The Pearisburg Community Market is located on the front lawn of the Community Center on Wenonah Avenue and is open the third Friday of the month from 5:00pm-7:30pm.

       

4. Montgomery County’s Farmers Markets

 

Continuing our travels through the New River Valley’s Farmers Markets, we find ourselves in Montgomery County with a few options for perusing the local offerings.

The Blacksburg Farmer’s Market is located in the center of Blacksburg and has a variety of hours to choose from:

  • Jan-Mar: Sat. 10am – 2pm
  • Apr-Oct: Wed. 2pm – 6pm & Sat. 8am – 2pm
  • Nov.-Dec: Wed. 2pm – 6pm & Sat. 9am – 2pm

The Christiansburg Farmers Market is located at 1600 North Franklin Street on Thursdays May – October from 3pm – 7pm. Each day differs, so you don’t want to miss out on what is available. You never know what you are going to find!

I don’t know about you, but I have found some lovely things at each market. My bags are full of some fabulous gifts and local veggies. I even heard some great music along the way! But there is still room for just a little more of what the NRV has to offer.

     

5. Pulaski County’s Farmers Market

 

Pulaski’s Marketplace has just what I need to finish out this Farmers Market Trail and I have just the spot for it in my bags. The Historic Train station offers a great backdrop for the music as I make my final purchases from the NRV. Join Pulaski at The Marketplace Tuesday’s 4-7pm in the summers where local vendors and artisans show of their knowledge and products. With activities for kids, there is fun for the whole family!

           

Thank you for joining us on the NRV Farmers Market Trail. I hope you have enjoyed the vendors, the locations, music, and all the treats you picked up along the way!

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.