Oransi Listed in Rolling Stone’s Best Air Purifiers List

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Radford, VA – Rolling Stone Magazine recently listed Oransi’s Mod Air Purifier as one of the best HEPA air purifiers. Oransi’s air purifier was ranked number 3 on their list as the most powerful.

According to the Rolling Stone article “Oransi says the Mod has been lab tested to remove 99.4% of the tiniest particles” and that “its filter also helps to remove allergens, mold, pet dander, and smoke”.

Oransi is a veteran-owned air purification company, that began operating in the City of Radford in 2021. The project brought significant investment and over 100 new jobs to the region. Oransi has established itself as a leading air purification company and is reshoring the manufacturing of its purifiers to the New River Valley. Oransi’s purifiers will serve a wide range of people, from general consumers to health professionals.

Read Rolling Stone’s full article here.

Learn more about why Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for Advanced Manufacturers here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read the full list of rankings here.

Read the methodology behind the report here.

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

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

Virginia Business Features NRV Leaders in ‘Top 100 People to Meet in 2024’

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New River Valley, VA – Several leaders from across the New River Valley were listed in the 5th annual list from Virginia Business of “Top 100 People to Meet in 2024”. According to the article, this list includes a wide range of professions from novelists and podcasters to up-and-coming entrepreneurs, influential attorneys, nonprofit leaders, educators, go-getters and innovators.

The top leaders from the NRV to meet in 2024 are:

Educators:
  • Enric Ruiz-Geli | Montgomery County | Professor of practice, Virginia Tech Honors College; principal and founding architect, Cloud 9
  • Bevlee A. Watford | Montgomery County | Associate dean of equity and engagement; executive director, Center for the Enhancement of Engineering Diversity, Virginia Tech

Go-Getters:
  • Peter Mann | City of Radford | Founder and CEO, Oransi

Innovators:
  • Nanci Hardwick | Montgomery County | Aeroprobe and MELD Manufacturing
  • Yuhao Zhang | Montgomery County | Assistant professor, Virgnia Tech

The New River Valley is at once organic and innovative. Technical and agricultural. Artistic and scientific. Step into a place filled with creativity, culture, and community, a place where you are surrounded with profound beauty, an eclectic mix of small-town life, and world-class universities. Discover how the New River Valley 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.

NRV Receives Grant for NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster Scale-Up

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New River Valley, VA – WSLS Channel 10 recently reported that Governor Youngkin announced $1.9 million in GO Virginia grants for eight different programs. These projects help promote economic growth and workforce development throughout the commonwealth.

A New River Valley partnership comprised of the New River Valley Regional Commission, the Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement, and Onward NRV received close to $100,000 for the NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster Scale-Up project. According to the GO Virginia Region 2 press release, the NRV Materials and Machinery Cluster Scale-Up will “build upon the successful application to the U.S. Economic Development Administration for a Tech Hubs designation” and will map “out assets and resources that could support ecosystem growth and transformation of the cluster.”

See the full list of projects here.

Read WSLS Channel 10’s full story here.

Read Go Virginia Region 2’s 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.

10 Most Popular Blog Posts of 2023

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has experienced an exciting 2023! Let’s count down the top ten 2023 posts on TheNRV.org website. The following posts had the most pageviews online:

10. Broadband Partnership Brings Countywide Fiber to Floyd

Citizens Telephone Coop recently reported that their Countywide Broadband Expansion project with Floyd County is almost complete. This will make Floyd “the first of a handful of rural counties to achieve universal broadband in the Commonwealth.”

9. 2 NRV Locations Featured in Southern Living For Best Fall Foliage in Virginia

Southern Living recently highlighted two locations in the New River Valley on their “15 Virginia Parks Where You Can Catch the Best Fall Foliage” list. Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County was #4 and Mabry Mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Floyd County was #9.

8. NRV Companies Announce 2,530 jobs and $551 million in Investment Since 2018

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.

7. Radford University Partners with City of Radford to Launch The HUB

The HUB at Radford for Economic Development opened on October 17th following a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This new partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford will “serve as an economic development support system to help businesses thrive in the City of Radford and across the region.

6. NRV Famers Market Trail

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. 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.

5. New LewisGale Montgomery ER Coming to Christiansburg

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.

4. Camrett Logistics to Expand and Create 58 New Jobs in Pulaski County

Camrett Logistics is expanding their capacity in Pulaski County, creating 58 new jobs and investing $2 million into the area.

3. Virginia Tech Ranks Top 3 Best College Campuses in America

Virginia Tech ranks third in 2020 Best College Campuses by Niche.com.

2. Fall Activities in the NRV

Join us as we explore fall in the NRV! The list has a little something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Four NRV Businesses Named Best Employers in Virginia by Forbes

Forbes recently released their 5th annual list of America’s Best Employers by State. Several New River Valley companies made the list for Virginia: Virgina Tech, BAE Systems, Carilion Clinic, and Volvo Group.

Discover more of the 2023 news from around Virginia’s New River Valley visit 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 Accolades and Awards for 2023

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New River Valley, VA – The New River Valley is proudly celebrating a year of triumphs and accolades that showcases how the region is filled with thriving communities and innovation. Below are just a few of the accomplishments and awards won this past year by the NRV’s counties, city, towns, schools, businesses, and universities.

Regional Awards:

Higher Education Rankings:

Business Accolades:

The Virginia Commonwealth Placements:

Explore more NRV accolades and awards here.

Photo by Anna-Louise

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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.

Exploring Murals and Wall Art in Virginia’s New River Valley

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New River Valley, VA – Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Virginia’s New River Valley, a hidden gem awaits history buffs, art enthusiasts, and casual observers alike – a vibrant tapestry of murals and wall art that breathes life into the region’s communities. From the historic streets of the City of Radford to the charming corners of Pulaski County, these artistic expressions tell stories, evoke emotions, and celebrate the unique spirit and history of the NRV. These artworks honor each county’s heritage while adding a modern feel to its growing culture.

Embraced by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Floyd County showcases murals that echo the area’s musical heritage and craft traditions. Tucked between Main Street and the farmers market, you can find a mural that spans the entire side of a building that features a woman working on a quilted patchwork that makes up the fields and mountains of Floyd County. Red Rooster Coffee’s red rooster welcomes everyone to experience the wonders of Floyd as you enter the town. Placed onto the sides of buildings and widow panes, you can see Floyd’s connection to its roots and its history.

Giles County, nestled along the New River, boasts murals that reflect the region’s outdoor spirit. Nature-inspired artworks celebrate the scenic beauty that defines the county, while showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship. Driving into Pearisburg from route 100 you can see a beautiful scene that welcomes you to the town that features butterflies and the New River. Traveling further on to Narrows, there a several murals around the town park and downtown. Near the farmers market area stands a majestic blue jay speaking to Giles County’s love of the outdoors.

Montgomery County, home to Virginia Tech, combines academic innovation with artistic expression. Colorful murals adorn brick facades, showcasing the area’s rich history and the dynamic energy of its residents. From sassy sophisticated cats, pet murals, and historic railroad renditions; there is a little bit of art on sidewalks and buildings around the county. Follow their public art trail here.

As Pulaski County continues to innovate their industrial roots, the murals and art renditions around the county celebrate their heritage while adding a contemporary flair to its evolving identity. From historical Coca-Cola advertisements that adorn brick walls to the new Pulaski collaborations with local businesses and college students to the mural featured at the Draper Mercantile, each piece pays homage to the hardworking spirit of Pulaski County.

The small-town charm of Radford City is enhanced by the magical New River that flows through it. Take a drive down Main Street and you’ll find yourself immersed in a kaleidoscope of colors; each stroke contributing to the narrative of the New River Valley. Antique advertisements on brick walls tell stories that transcend time and connect the vibrant present to the echoes of history. The bricks speak of a time when Cubanola Cigars were 5 cents and R.S Carson was the prescription druggist. Wander into one or two of the shops that adorn Radford’s Main Street and you will find new and old murals on the inside of the buildings that speak of the rich history that fills this city.

Together, these communities form a vibrant tapestry of art, with each mural telling a unique story of the people, history, and natural beauty that define Virginia’s New River Valley. As you wander through the streets of Floyd County, Giles County, Montgomery County, Pulaski County, and the City of Radford, let the colors on the walls guide you through a visual journey of community pride and shared identity.

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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.

Radford University and Virginia Tech Among Best Student Cost of Living in VA

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New River Valley, VA – Radford University and Virginia Tech are among the top 10 best colleges for student cost of living in Virginia according to SmartAsset.com Radford University is ranked #6 for 2023 and Virginia Tech is ranked #7 for 2023.

According to SmartAsset’s methodology, the company “compares schools based on a variety of financial factors and data sets, including starting salary, tuition, living expenses, student retention rate, and scholarships awarded”.

See SmartAsset’s Best Student Cost of Living in Virginia rankings list and the methodology for their placements here.

Learn more about higher education in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Photo: Radford University on the right and Virginia Tech on the left

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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.

Radford University Launches Free Tuition Program for Virginia Residents

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Radford, VA – Radford University recently announced that it is promoting access to affordable higher education through its Radford Tuition Promise. For qualifying incoming undergraduate freshman and transfer students that are Virginia residents, the Radford Tuition Promise will cover the full cost of their tuition at Radford University. The program is funded by federal, state, and institutional gift aid.

Radford University is a comprehensive public university of 7,718 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University’s main campus sits on 221 acres in the City of Radford where students are offered many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines, two associate degrees, and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 28 master’s programs in 23 disciplines and six doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 17 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate.

Discover more about Radford University and the City of Radford here.

Learn more about the Radford Tuition Promise 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.

Radford University Partners with City of Radford to Launch The HUB

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Radford, VA – The HUB at Radford for Economic Development opened on October 17th following a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This new partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford will “serve as an economic development support system to help businesses thrive in the City of Radford and across the region. The dynamic facility will transform how the university engages with businesses and communities to support economic development while carrying out its mission.”

Radford University’s Vice President for Economic Development and Corporate Education, Dr. Angela Joyner said in a university press release, “The HUB will help our region connect to university resources, such as talent, faculty expertise and workforce solutions. It can also serve as a place to collaborate on initiatives that will help our region thrive.”

Watch the ribbon cutting here.

Read the press release from Radford University here.

Discover more about the City of Radford here.

The New River Valley is much more than a region with beautiful scenery and diverse people. It’s a perfect location for your business to flourish. Explore what makes the New River Valley a natural fit for your company 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.