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.

Regional Consortium Awarded Federal Tech Hubs Strategy Development Grant

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Regional Consortium Awarded Federal Tech Hubs Strategy Development Grant

10.24.23 / PRESS RELEASES

Oct. 23, 2023 – A consortium led by the New River Valley Regional Commission has been selected for a highly competitive $500,000 federal Tech Hubs Strategy Development Grant.

“This is exciting news and a testament to our region’s burgeoning prowess in additive manufacturing and applied materials,” said Kevin Byrd, executive director of the New River Valley Regional Commission. “This award will accelerate our work to help small- and medium-sized manufacturers adopt and implement these new technologies, grow their business, and create jobs at all skill levels.”

“This is exciting news and a testament to our region’s burgeoning prowess in additive manufacturing and applied materials. This award will accelerate our work to help small- and medium-sized manufacturers adopt and implement these new technologies, grow their business, and create jobs at all skill levels.” – Kevin Byrd, executive director of the New River Valley Regional Commission

The U.S. Economic Development Administration received more than 400 applications for the Tech Hubs Program. It was created as part of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 to drive innovation by strengthening a region’s capacity to manufacture, commercialize, and deploy critical technologies.

On Monday, the EDA announced it has designated 31 Tech Hubs and awarded 29 Strategy Development Grants in Phase 1 of the program. Tech Hub designees are eligible to apply for a handful of $40 million to $70 million implementation grants that will be awarded in Phase 2.

The New River Valley-based proposal centers on a set of world class technology assets that includes Virginia Tech and MELD Manufacturing Corporation, maker of large scale, metal 3D printers. It heavily leverages the Virginia Tech College of Engineering’s Advanced Manufacturing Team, led by Professor Chris Williams. This team, composed of 15 faculty from across the college, conducts research and education around advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing and advanced materials.

“This is another step toward our goal of creating a globally competitive hub of excellence in this technology area, which is critical for our national competitiveness and security” said Williams, the L.S. Randolph Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. “I see this opportunity as yet another way in which we strive to fulfill Virginia Tech’s land-grant mission.”

The Strategy Development Grant provides the consortium, which includes more than 15 partners, with critical resources to work together to refine its strategy and position for future funding opportunities, Byrd said.

The CHIPS and Science Act authorized the Tech Hubs Program at $10 billion; EDA has so far received $500 million – 5 percent – of the authorized dollars. If additional funding is appropriated by Congress, the EDA could offer additional implementation grants beyond Phase 2. Strategy Development Award consortiums are invited by the EDA to apply for future application rounds.

Byrd believes the unique technology and skills across the geographic footprint of the consortium – including multiple partners in the Danville area – helped it earn designation as an inaugural Tech Hubs Strategy Development Consortium. He also credited bipartisan support from Virginia’s congressional delegation. The grant application included a joint letter of support signed by U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, along with U.S. Reps. Morgan Griffith and Rob Wittman.

Nanci Hardwick, CEO of MELD Manufacturing, said additive manufacturing is a growing industry that offers the region a chance to distinguish itself.

“Large scale additive manufacturing is critical to supply production parts for industries such as semiconductor equipment manufacturing, the machines that make chips, as well as aerospace, space, and shipbuilding,” she said. “We need to expand our capability to deliver these parts as fast as we can and this grant will allow us to bring together key partners to develop a plan for growth that benefits the community.”

The regional collaboration behind the Tech Hubs consortium’s proposal builds off a federal Build Back Better proposal led by Virginia Tech last year. John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement, said the strategy development endorsement from the EDA reflects the momentum of the region and validates the focus in additive manufacturing.

“It’s a testament to the dedication and collaboration within our community,” he said. “With this award, we’ll be able to strengthen our region’s position in the tech industry.”

“It’s a testament to the dedication and collaboration within our community. With this award, we’ll be able to strengthen our region’s position in the tech industry.” – John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement

Consortium members include: Hollingsworth & Vose, which operates a Floyd County location and makes advanced materials; Radford University; New River Community College; MELD PrintWorks, a spinoff of MELD Manufacturing; Fastech, a Danville-based 3D metal printing and engineering firm; Volvo Trucks in Dublin; the Virginia Manufacturers Association; the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center; the Verge alliance; the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board; Onward New River Valley; the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance; and the Danville-based Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. The counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, and Pulaski and the cities of Danville and Radford are members too.

Media contact: Kevin Byrd
kbyrd@nrvrc.org
New River Valley Regional Commission

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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 Ranks #2 on Forbes VA’s Best Online Colleges 2023

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Radford, VA – Forbes recently ranked Radford University’s online programs as some of the best in Virginia. Forbes stated that “Virginia is a state to watch as its technology sector becomes one of the most diverse and fast-paced in the nation.” They ranked online colleges in Virginia that can provide hands-on learning for people to build their ideal profession. Radford University was second on the Best Virginia Online Colleges of 2023 list. Forbes picked Radford University because students can “choose from standard bachelor’s degrees, bachelor’s completion programs, and accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s degrees. Some are available in a hybrid format for learners who prefer in-person instruction.” Forbes’ rankings were based on learning, affordability, and student outcomes. Learn more about their methodology here. Read the full article here. Discover more about the City of Radford and Radford University 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Efforts to Retain NRV Talent Featured in Virginia Business Magazine

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley was recently featured in a Virginia Business article on talent retention in the area.

The article spoke about how both the New River Valley and the Roanoke region are working to retain students and tap into remote workers looking for a better quality of life that the larger metropolitan areas don’t offer.

John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement was quoted as saying that “students are the largest export” of the region because of universities like Radford and Virginia Tech.

Students don’t typically stay in the region because they don’t know all that it has to offer. Programs like Onward NRV’s NRV Experience were created to educate and show off the New River Valley to summer interns working in the area. The program features five community excursions and professional development trainings throughout the summer. Onward NRV hosts the program in collaboration with local tourism directors and economic developers in the region. The livability of the region is a huge asset for talent recruitment and retention with access to the Blue Ridge Mountains and a cost of living that makes life easier. The NRV has a lot to offer to those who choose to live and work in the area.

Read the article here.

Learn more about the NRV Experience here.

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for anyone looking for a place to call home and do 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.

TechLab is Scaling up NRV Manufacturing

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New River Valley, VA – Valley Business FRONT recently did a cover story on TechLab, who has locations in both the City of Radford and Montgomery County. The story highlighted TechLab’s recent merger with Nordic company SSI Diagnostica.

TechLab’s specialty is in rapid single use tests that enable health care providers to identify issues more effectively. TechLab currently produces devices for intestinal diagnostics and, with the merger, will add manufacturing respiratory rapid devices to their Radford facilities. This will expand their product offerings and open new doors for a larger client base.

The merger highlights the thriving and growing presence of international companies in the New River Valley. COO of TechLab Rob Day said, “it reinforces the idea that you can perform high tech manufacturing in southwest Virginia.”

TechLab will become a part of an international group of businesses that help over eighty million patients. They anticipate adding up to fifty jobs in the NRV over the next three years ranging from research and development, quality control, administration, to manufacturing.

Read the full Valley Business FRONT article here.

The NRV is a natural fit for any business. From manufacturing to technology, the NRV has both a small-town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative, and business-friendly culture. Find out how your company can become a part of the business 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.