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.

Radford Moves to Purchase Former Foundry Site

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Radford, VA – The City of Radford recently distributed a press release stating that they will move forward with purchasing the former Foundry site, currently owned by Michigan-based Virginia Castings, LLC..

According to the press release, “after undergoing extensive environmental testing and assessment over the past 6 months, the Radford City Council, with the support of the Economic Development Authority believe there is no better time than now to purchase the property.”

Mayor David Horton said, “This is an exciting day for the City of Radford as we make plans for the future of this great community. By investing in West Radford for future commercial development, we open the door for many possibilities for economic success and opportunities for our citizens. It is a big part of the continued renaissance and resurgence of Radford as we work across the city to maximize areas for prosperity and sustainability.”

The Radford Foundry was founded in 1880 as the Radford Iron and Coal Company and employed approximately 1,500 at its peak in the late 1970’s. The Foundry produced an array of ductile iron products from water / sewer pipes to auto parts until they closed their doors in 2013. The current site is 80 acres with approximately 30 acres or more of developable land.

“We are thrilled that the city has acquired the former VCI property. We believe this will play a pivotal role in Radford’s Economic future providing a place for industrial development and job creation of both small and large businesses.” said Abram Williams, Economic Development Authority Chair.

With assistance from the Commonwealth, the city will pursue grants for remediation, site access, clean-up and redevelopment.

“This is a monumental day in Radford as we move forward on the acquisition of the former Foundry property,” said Kim Repass, Economic Development Director. “The ability to bring new industry and commercial businesses in the future to this property will bring economic vitality, job creation and investment to the City of Radford. This will be a game changer for our citizens and community.”

Read the original press release here.

Explore the City of Radford 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.

Oransi to Manufacture Air Filters in Radford

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Radford, VA – The Chief Executive Group recently reported that Oransi Inc., an NRV manufacturing company, is working to shift all manufacturing from China to their Radford location. This will mean adding an additional 100 new employees to assemble and engineer the filters.

The article quotes Peter Mann, CEO of Oransi, as saying this about the benefits of locating in the New River Valley:

“Finding talent in the ‘electric motor hub’ won’t be an issue. We are near Virginia Tech and there are a few other electric motor companies in the area, so there is a lot of knowledge here.”

Oransi has established itself as a leading air purification company and has become one of the fastest growing businesses in America. It hopes to manufacture a range of purifiers in the New River Valley that will serve general consumers to health professionals.

Read the article detailing Oransi’s manufacturing plans here.

Explore another recent article about Oransi from Virginia Business magazine here.

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley 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.

Radford’s Luxurious Highlander Hotel Opens

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Radford, VA – The highly anticipated Highlander Hotel is officially open. The luxury hotel was a collaboration between Radford University, The Radford University Foundation design firm Blur Workshop, Preston Hollow Capital, S.B. Ballard Construction Company, Aimbridge Hospitality and the City of Radford. The hotel boasts 124 luxurious rooms, including pet-friendly accommodations. It offers a variety of amenities and a full-service rooftop restaurant and bar.

The Highlander Hotel is a significant development for Radford and the surrounding New River Valley, as it is anticipated to interest visitors and boost the local economy. The hotel has created job opportunities in Radford and is expected to attract more businesses and investments to the area.

David Horton, Mayor of Radford, had this to say about the hotel:

“This new facility will be a great asset to the community, the NRV and Southwest Virginia as we continue to help Radford be a destination for people from across the Commonwealth and beyond.”

To see all the amenities The Highlander has to offer click here.

Explore the City of Radford, a community of 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.

Homegrown NRV Companies Highlighted in Virginia Economic Review

Homegrown NRV Companies Highlighted in Virginia Economic Review

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New River Valley, VA – Companies that were founded in Virginia’s New River Valley and continue to flourish in the region were highlighted in a recent issue of the Virginia Economic Review. The Q4 2022 issue focused on homegrown Virginia companies throughout the Commonwealth.

Here is a list of the NRV companies highlighted in this issue:

The New River Valley has many advantages for starting and growing your business. It has an innovative business community and access to a loyal, highly skilled workforce. It is affordable with a low cost of living. The strategic location with easy access to I-81 and I-77 makes travel and distribution convenient.

Explore all the NRV’s business advantages here.

Read the full “State of Success” issue of the Virginia Economic Review 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 NRV Blog Posts of 2022

10 Most Popular NRV Blog Posts of 2022

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New River Valley, VA – 2022 was an exciting year in the New River Valley! Explore the ten most popular blog posts of the year from TheNRV.org. The following posts had the most pageviews online.

10. The Future of Trucking Arrives in Pulaski

This post highlighted a Cardinal News article about Trova CV, an NRV start-up company working to transform existing diesel trucks to electric trucks.

9. Financial Agreement Reached in NRV Passenger Rail Expansion

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority and Norfolk Southern announced the financial closing of the agreement which will help bring passenger rail to the NRV within the next few years.

8. World’s Largest 3D Printing Project Finds a Home in Pulaski County

Alquist 3D announced a project to construct 200 3D-printed housing units in Pulaski. It was dubbed the “world’s largest 3D printing project”.

7. Great Ways to Turn Fall into Fun in the NRV

Explore ten things to do in the fall in New River Valley in this popular blog post!

6. Volvo Lands Largest VNR Truck Order to Date

It was announced in March that Performance Trucks, a California-based logistics company, ordered 110 of Volvo’s VNR electric trucks to be manufactured in the company’s NRV factory.

5. Amenities and Recreation Pave the Way for a Renaissance in Pulaski

This blog post featured a Cardinal News piece, titled “Pulaski Reinventing Itself”, which explored the work being done to improve and develop amenities throughout the Town of Pulaski.

4. Radford’s Highly Anticipated Highlander Hotel Set to Open Soon

This blog post highlighted a Virginia Business magazine article promoting the upcoming opening of Radford’s new Highlander Hotel. The hotel and conference center is scheduled to open in Spring 2023.

3. Three NRV Businesses Named Best Places to Work in VA

Modea, Aeroprobe, and Community Housing Partners were all named on the 12th annual list of best places to work in Virginia by Virginia Business magazine.

2. Industry and Jobs Flowing into the New River Valley

This blog post celebrated four 2021 business announcements throughout the New River Valley that were featured in a Virginia Business magazine article. In total, the four announcements brought 274 new jobs and over $29 million in capital investment to the region.

1. Passenger Rail Station Proposed for Former NRV Mall Site in Christiansburg

The most popular blog post of 2022 highlighted an article from The Roanoke Times detailing that the proposed NRV passenger rail station would be in one of two locations at Uptown Christiansburg development (formerly the NRV Mall).

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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’s Highly Anticipated Highlander Hotel Set to Open Soon

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Radford, VA – Virginia Business recently published an article detailing the progress of the Highlander Hotel in the City of Radford.

The project, announced in 2019, is a collaboration between Radford University, the Radford University Foundation, and the City of Radford.

According to the article, the 40 million dollar boutique hotel and conference center is expected to open its doors to guests in January 2023 and will boast over 100 rooms, including four suites and a 4,000-square-foot conference space.

The article quotes Radford University Foundation’s CEO, John F. Cox Jr., saying,

“We are excited about the opportunities to use the hotel for conferences, events on campus, and events throughout the New River Valley. That would include events such as homecoming, commencement, and of course, sporting events.”

Read the full article here.

Learn more about the City of Radford here.

Learn more about higher education 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.

Radford Eyes 80-Acre Parcel for Potential Redevelopment

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Radford, VA – WDBJ News recently highlighted the City of Radford and its decision to approve a future purchase option of an 80-acre site affiliated with the old Foundry on the southwest side of town.

The six-month option agreement with owner Virginia Castings LLC, gives the city the latitude to conduct environmental testing and remediation on the site if necessary before the purchase is finalized.

The Foundry, which shut its doors in 2013 was once a major player in Radford’s industrial base employing approximately 1500 workers at its peak in the 1970’s.

Per the article, “The city says it will pursue grants for environmental evaluation, remediation, site access, cleanup and redevelopment, leading to the opportunity for significant economic benefit.”

Read the full article here.

Learn more about Radford, a city 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.

BAE Systems Extends Contract for Radford Army Ammunition Plant Through 2026

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Radford, VA – Virginia Business recently published an article detailing that the Radford Army Ammunition Plant has secured an extended contract for operations through 2026. The contract is managed by BAE Systems, which is one of the largest Department of Defense contractors in the world.

In the article, Brian Gathright, vice president and general manager of BAE Systems Ordnance Systems Inc. explains the economic importance of the Radford plant to New River Valley residents saying,

“The Radford Army Ammunition Plant means a lot to our BAE Systems workforce, but also to the generations of families in our community that have kept the site running since World War II.”

BAE oversees about 3,000 employees in the region and has been the prime contractor for the operation of the Radford plant for the last decade. Through economic ups and downs, BAE has been able to keep a stable and consistent labor force throuought that time by showing employees the money. Brian Hamilton, Montgomery County’s director of economic development is quoted in the atricle saying,

“Radford Army Ammunition Plant employees receive higher than average manufacturing wages, which has a substantial economic impact on the region.”
The article refers to a report by the Virginia Employment Commission, which states that “BAE ranks seventh among largest employers in the New River Valley behind powerhouses such as Virginia Tech, Volvo Group North America Inc., Radford University and Carilion New River Valley Medical Center.”

The City of Radford would likely look much different if it was there at all if not for the large impact of the ammunition plant.  Kimberly D. Repass, the city’s director of economic development  elaborates saying:

“Historically, the ammunition plant has been instrumental in developing and establishing neighborhoods and infrastructures here in Radford dating back to the 1950s.”

Learn more about advanced manufacturing in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Learn more about the benefits of living and working 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.