Exelaration Ranked #3 Best Tech Internship by Vault

Exelaration Ranked #3 Tech Internship by Vault

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Montgomery County, VA – Exelaration was ranked the #3 Tech & Engineering Internship for 2021 by Vault. Vault is nationally known for ranking “the top internship programs in various industries in diversity, quality of life, and overall best to work for.” Rankings are determined through surveys of current and past interns.

Exelaration, which runs the Blacksburg-based Exelaration Center (XC), trains interns for careers in technology by giving them real-world experiences on projects for companies such as the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance and Medeco. According to the company, “The Exelaration Center (XC) addresses the STEM skills shortage by connecting young people of varied backgrounds with the technology workforce.”

Exelaration ranked in the top 10 in many categories of the Vault 2021 rankings, including:

#2 Best Internships for Training & Mentoring
#3 Best Internships for Software Development
#3 Best Tech & Engineering Internships
#4 Best Internships for Diversity
#4 Best Internships for Quality of Life
#5 Best Internships for Overall Career Development
#7 100 Best Internships
#7 Best Internships for Real-Life Experience

Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the information technology industry, and Exelaration is expanding the pool of highly qualified tech talent in the region through their internship programs. Learn more here about why tech companies like Exelaration choose to grow and develop their businesses in the NRV here.

Learn more about internships offered from The Exelaration Center 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.

FastForward Prepares NRV Workforce for Jobs in Manufacturing

FastForward Prepares NRV Workforce for Jobs in Manufacturing

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Pulaski County, VA – New River Community College (NRCC)’s FastForward Program was highlighted in an article in the July 2020 issue of Valley Business Front. The program is run by NRCC’s Office of Workforce Development and is designed to help individuals in Virginia’s New River Valley prepare and train for in-demand careers.

According to the article, “FastForward was made possible by the New Economy Workforce Credential Grant Program, developed during the 2016 General Assembly Session, to create and sustain a supply of credentialed workers to fill high-demand occupations in fields which support the state’s economy while making the attainment of these credentials more affordable.”

Several of the FastForward training programs at NRCC are designed to serve students looking for careers in the manufacturing industry. There are two Six Sigma certification programs that are offered in partnership with the college’s Manufacturing Technology Center. In addition, the college is adding a Certified Production Technician (CPT) program in Spring 2021. This goal of this Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) program is to “raise the level of performance of production technicians both to assist the individuals in finding higher-wage jobs and to help employers ensure their workforce increases the company’s productivity and competitiveness.”

Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the advanced manufacturing industry, and training programs like FastForward help to strengthen the industry’s talent pool in the region.

Read the full article from Valley Business Front about the NRCC FastForward program here.

Learn more about the NRCC FastForward program here.

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

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

Job Board Launched on Virginia's New River Valley Website

Job Board Launched on Virginia’s New River Valley Website

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New River Valley, VA – Many employers in Virginia’s New River Valley are hiring amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Onward NRV, a public/private, regional economic development organization, launched an online Job Board in March 2020 to help connect employees looking for work with employers that have job openings.

The job board can be found on the Virginia’s New River Valley website. It features a section for job listings from featured employers in the region.

Job seekers can also use the job board to search for new career opportunities in specific industries. Listings are available in eight different job categories:

  • Technology
  • Manufacturing
  • Healthcare
  • Accounting and Finance
  • Construction and Architecture
  • Education
  • Human Resources
  • Marketing and Sales

    • In addition to searching by industry, potential employees can also search and filter through all jobs available in Virginia’s New River Valley. Over 100 available jobs have been posted to the job board within the last two weeks. All sections of the job board are powered by Indeed, the #1 job site in the world.

    Onward NRV’s mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. Onward promotes economic vitality in the region through supporting the growth of four targeted industries: Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Food Processing & Agribusiness, and Unmanned Systems. The job board is one way the organization is working to connect employees with employers in these targeted industries. Learn more about Onward NRV here.

    Click here to browse the job board and learn more about career opportunities currently available in Virginia’s New River Valley.

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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.

    Pulaski County Led Virginia in Economic Development Performance in 2019

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    Pulaski County, VA – Pulaski County once again tops the state in economic development, finishing 1st in the Commonwealth for new job creation and 2nd in the Commonwealth for new capital investment per capita.

    According to data compiled by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership on announcements of employment creation and capital investment for 2019, Pulaski County finished 1st overall in Job Creation, 2nd overall in New Capital Investment and 17th overall in the Number of Projects Announced per capita for the Calendar Year 2019, out of all 95 counties and 38 independent cities within the Commonwealth of Virginia.

    The ranking outcomes were the result of Pulaski County’s two (2) qualified projects in CY-2019, both of which were officially announced in concert with the Governor’s office. These two (2) basic industry sector projects will collectively create more than 790 new jobs and more than $401 million in new capital investment. The two projects referenced consisted of Volvo Trucks North America and BimmerWorld.

    “The Board of Supervisors is very gratified to receive the number one spot in economic development for the second time in three years. This continuing success is certain to have significant long-term benefits to the people of our county and to the economy of the entire New River Valley. We have one of the best economic development teams in Virginia, and they have been working very effectively with the previous and current Board of Supervisor members and other local leaders to support our existing businesses and industries to create jobs and encourage investment here in Pulaski County.” – Joseph Guthrie, Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors

    Pulaski County also ranked number 1 in the Commonwealth in 2017 for Overall Economic Development Performance per capita having facilitated the creation of more than 600 new jobs and $57 million in new capital investment derived from five (5) qualified basic industry sector projects in CY-2017. Since January of 2017, Pulaski County has enjoyed seven (7) qualified announcements that have resulted in nearly $475 million in new capital investment and more than 1,460 new jobs created. One of the seven announcements recently occurred on January 21, 2020, when Patton Logistics, LLC was welcomed as the newest member of Pulaski County’s business community.

    “We knew Pulaski County had another impressive year of announcements, but did not anticipate we would end up on top again out of all 133 jurisdictions considering Virginia’s #1 business ranking and how strong the economy was in 2019. We are thankful to have world-class companies such as Bimmerworld and Volvo who call Pulaski County home and are willing to invest millions and even hundreds of millions into their operations, their people and their future.” – Jon Wyatt, Chair of the Pulaski County Economic Development Authority

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Pulaski County’s unemployment rate remained at the 20-year low of 2.8% in November of 2019, reaching the third lowest monthly rate in more than 30 years. “The availability of good jobs is foundational to the health of our local economy and achieving our goal of 40,000 people by 2030, and it takes leadership from our elected officials, a skilled workforce, a talented economic development team and trust, confidence and commitment from our businesses to make this possible,” stated Jonathan D. Sweet, County Administrator. “Our culminated successes in the past three years is not by accident, but rather the results of a lot of hard work, strategy, creativity and risk taking by our economic development team, the unwavering support of our Board of Supervisors and EDA, a deep talent pool and without a doubt, God’s favor.”

    Pulaski County, located in the New River Valley of Virginia, is home to eight (8) international companies that represents more than 5,000 advanced manufacturing jobs. The County is considered to be Southwest Virginia’s Center for International Business and the New River Valley’s Advanced Manufacturing Hub.

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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.

    Volvo Trucks Hosts STEM Students

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    Dublin, VA – Volvo Trucks opened its doors to middle school students from across the New River Valley to expose them to the variety of opportunities within advanced manufacturing.

    More than 100 students had the opportunity to see the 1.6 million-square-foot plant, however the focus of the conversations was how to use creativity and work as part of a team to bring innovation to the job. From virtual reality to robotics, students were able to see the ideas of Volvo Group come to life.

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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 Commerce Park Welcomes Patton Logistics Group

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    Dublin, VA – Governor Ralph Northam today announced that The Patton Logistics Group will invest $12 million to establish a new logistics and warehousing operation in the New River Valley Commerce Park in Pulaski County.

    Patton provides integrated supply chain solutions for clients throughout the United States and Canada. The facility will also serve as a hub for motor carrier freight services to reach major clients in Eastern United States markets. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina for the project, which will create 33 new jobs.

    “The Patton Logistics Group is a significant addition to Pulaski County’s New River Valley Commerce Park. This project will bring 33 new jobs and strengthen Virginia’s supply chain management sector. We are confident that the region’s top-notch workforce and access to expanding markets along I-81 and I-77 will help the company serve its growing client list.” -Governor Ralph Northam.

    The Patton Logistics Group is comprised of three separate organizations employing 560 people throughout the United States. Watsontown Trucking Company is a family-owned and -operated asset-based motor carrier founded in 1941. They operate a fleet of 400 trucks and 1,150 trailers with a workforce of 475. Patton Logistics, LLC was organized in 2013 as an affiliated entity of Watsontown Trucking Company to provide transportation brokerage and third-party logistics services for its expanding customer base. Patton Warehousing, LLC was formed in 2015 and currently manages 1.6 million square feet of warehouse space in Pennsylvania, Ohio, and New Jersey. The Patton Logistics Group management team has over 150 years of combined transportation and logistics knowledge and can provide integrated supply chain solutions ranging from motor carrier transportation, warehousing, distribution services, logistics, and brokerage sourcing. Watsontown Trucking Company has received numerous service and safety awards from clients and business partners.

    “Virginia’s unparalleled transportation infrastructure and access to domestic and global markets continue to attract high-caliber retail supply chain companies like The Patton Logistics Group,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “With interstate access and a cross-dock terminal located nearby, Pulaski County’s proximity to population clusters and easily navigable logistics options played a role in the company’s decision to expand its operations in Virginia. The New River Valley location will enable Patton Logistics to serve major nearby clients and grow its presence in Eastern United States markets, and we thank Patton for its significant investment.”

    “Over the past several years we have developed a motor carrier transportation and logistics presence in Southwest Virginia and throughout the Southeastern United States,” said Steve Patton, President of Watsontown Trucking Company and Patton Warehousing and Logistics, LLC. “We chose to further expand in Dublin, Virginia, for several reasons: first, this location provides access to a superior workforce that is dedicated to help us develop a reliable logistics system for our clients. Also, the close proximity to the interstate highway system gives us the ability to provide daily service to population centers in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Tennessee. Finally, Southwest Virginia is home to two of our largest clients and having a location near them will only enhance our ability to serve their logistics needs in the future.”

    The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County, Virginia’s First Regional Industrial Facility Authority (VFRIFA), and Onward New River Valley to secure this project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved a $150,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pulaski County with the project. Patton Logistics is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

    “Our economic development team worked hard to compete for and secure Patton Logistics’ site location decision, and we are delighted to welcome them as the newest member of our business community,” said Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors Joseph Guthrie. “Even better, since they are a highly capable 3PL resource, they will further support Pulaski County’s diverse advanced manufacturing sector. This announcement is a great way to begin 2020 as it continues the success the county has had recently in economic development, bringing Pulaski County’s new capital investment totals to nearly $475 million and more than 1,460 new jobs created in the past three years.”

    “VFRIFA is excited to welcome Patton Logistics Group as the latest business to locate in the 1,000-acre NRV Commerce Park,” said VFRIFA Board Chair Mary Biggs. “This amazing project would not have been possible without the support from the 11 localities that make up VFRIFA: the counties of Bland, Craig, Giles, Montgomery, Pulaski, and Roanoke; cities of Radford and Roanoke; and the towns of Dublin, Pearisburg, and Pulaski. In addition, financial assistance from the Virginia Small Business Financing Authority and an ARC Grant administered by Virginia DHCD helped make this project a reality.”

    “It’s good to see Pulaski County beginning a new decade with a continued growing economy,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “The addition of Patton Logistics will provide a double benefit to the New River Valley with expanded commerce and capital. We look forward to welcoming the Group to Southwest Virginia with our strong support and best wishes for success.”

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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.

    The New River Valley Business Center is at 100% Occupancy

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    Fairlawn, VA – The NRV Business Center is a regional business incubator for small businesses and business startups and is at 100% capacity for the first time in its history.

    The New River Valley Development Corporation that owns and manages the New River Valley Business Center announces today that they have successfully filled every available space in the building. The 55,000 square foot facility, established in the late 1990’s to support small businesses and serve as an incubator for business startups in the New River Valley, is now full for the first time. Over the past 20 years, the Business Center has been an economic driver for private enterprise in the New River Valley.

    “The New River Valley Development Board has worked very hard over the years to provide a platform for people to start businesses of all types,” stated Christiansburg Mayor Mike Barber, Chair of the New River Valley Development Board.  “What pleases me the most is that 32 different organizations have their offices here and are providing employment to over 85 people.”

    The Center, which was founded in 1998 and located in Fairlawn, VA (Pulaski County), is supported by Pulaski and Floyd Counties, the Towns of Christiansburg, Pulaski and Blacksburg, and the City of Radford.  “The Business Center provides more than office incubation space, offering up over 20,000 square feet of mixed-use manufacturing space that can also accommodate small manufacturers that are looking for a place to launch,” stated Michael Solomon Business Center Manager.”

    “This is about so much more than simply reaching a milestone, it is about celebrating the diversification and number of jobs that exist because of this regional resource. The most exciting part of all of this is the growth potential for these companies that exists beyond the walls of the Business Center and the impact they will ultimately have in continuing to grow the New River Valley economy.”
    – Jon Wyatt, Chair, Pulaski County EDA

    The Business Center is located in the New River Valley of Virginia, and hosts 32 different organizations that represent many different business sectors that include advanced manufacturing, government services, the New River Valley Regional Commission, financial services, hemp processing and engineering services to name a few.

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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.

    work here; business plan; jumpstart giles

    Giles County is Hosting a Business Plan Competition

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    Giles County, VA – Giles County, Virginia is encouraging small businesses to locate and expand within its borders. Applications are now open for Jumpstart Giles, a business plan competition that guides applicants through a series of professional and business development workshops. The final jump will be a Business Plan Competition where up to $33,000 in cash prizes and more in professional services will be donned out to successful applicants.

    Businesses with a retail component or based in tourism and hospitality are invited to compete for prize packages, and all small businesses are encouraged to participate in the workshops, scheduled to start in February 2020. The deadline to apply is January 23, 2020. All information is currently accessible at GilesCounty.org under Jumpstart or by calling the Giles Tourism Office for a paper application.

    Jumpstart Giles is one of four localities that received funding through the Community Business Launch, a community development program of the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). Funds will be used to host workshops and provide materials for all applicants, advertise and support the series, and award funds to successful competitors to grow, launch, and enhance their small businesses in Giles.

    New (operating for less than two years) businesses as well as businesses wishing to expand have the opportunity to participate. Those entrepreneurs who have yet to launch their idea are also encouraged to apply as all winners have until later in 2020 to show their business plan implementation successes.

    The purpose of Jumpstart Giles is to provide a platform and network to support entrepreneurs within the New River Valley. Creating a space that is welcoming to business, enables our communities to continue to be places we want to live, play, recreate, and grow. Jumpstart Giles is an opportunity to jumpstart a business, an idea, and 2020!

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    Giles County, Virginia is located in Southwest Virginia approximately 40 minutes south of Roanoke and just west of Blacksburg and Virginia Tech. With easy access to the New River, world class dining and lodging properties, and historical attractions for the entire family, Giles offers adventure in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Come find your playground at our Visitors Center located at 203 N Main Street, Pearisburg, VA 24134 or find us online at gilescounty.org or by calling 540-921-2079.

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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.

    ACCE program; Muddy ACCE race; NRV; new river valley; giles county; NRCC

    Giles County Uses ACCE Program as Part of Economic Development Strategy

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    Giles County, VA – The Access to Community College Education (ACCE) Program and entrepreneurial ideas from within the community are some of the core components of Giles County’s economic development strategy.

    Giles County has been organically exploring ways to grow their economy. Due to the geography and topography, industrial development space is limited which means so is the opportunity to bring in new industries. The county has been focusing on the assets it does have and sees an opportunity to improve the outdoor recreation gear manufacturers and attractions. The existing outfitters have limited capacity to host larger groups, so the county is exploring ways to recruit more outfitters and a homegrown provider for equipment. Currently, their goal is to grow internally by supporting entrepreneurship within the community. The perfect example is the new resort along the river came from a connection the owner of the county’s primary outdoors outfitter had with a friend looking for a place to build. “We supported them and that turned into an almost $3 million investment in the county,” said Cora Gnegy, Giles County Tourism Marketing Director.

    Regardless of the type of industry that is successful in Giles County, they will need qualified talent. Over the past seven years, the ACCE program has received nearly $900,000 from the Muddy ACCE Race. The program covers two years of tuition at New River Community College (NRCC) and has had more than 3,000 students, a third of Giles County high school graduates during that time, participate in the program.

    “We’re seeing 26 percent of kids going on to post-secondary education who weren’t before. Even more students are aware that there’s more out there for them if they want to take advantage of it.” – Cora Gnegy, Giles County Tourism Marketing Director

    By exposing Giles County students to more opportunities, the county may be able to anticipate what its best course forward is, again, by relying on those who know it best.

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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.

    food business; food processing; new river valley; virginia

    Food Competition Aims to Support Food Processing & Agribusiness in the NRV

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    Blacksburg, VA – Millstone Kitchen, the NRV’s only shared use kitchen, is hosting a Business Competition with $20,000 to give away in prizes and is seeking small food business participants. These could be aspiring or current business owners of small bakeries, catering businesses, value-added processing, food trucks, and more.

    The business competition is scheduled to take place this January through April and seeks to prepare small food businesses to operate at shared kitchen facilities and to encourage socially- and environmentally-conscious entrepreneurship among them. The competition will prepare aspiring entrepreneurs to not only succeed financially, but to also recognize their roles in building sustainable communities.

    Participants will be required to attend 6 workshops, deliver a pitch and product/menu samples, and submit a business plan. In addition to workshops, participants will have access to mentors: successful local business owners who want to help new entrepreneurs in the start-up process.

    Awards will be based on the pitches, business plans, marketing strategies, and potential impact from social and environmental perspectives. There is $20,000 to award to winning businesses.

    Applications are due December 16, 2019 by 5pm and can be downloaded on Millstone Kitchen’s website. It is FREE to apply and participate. Questions can be directed toward Jessica Schultz, Millstone Kitchen Manager at millstonekitchen@gmail.com.

    Other partners include the Roanoke Regional Small Business Development Center, Virginia Community Capital, Virginia Cooperative Extension, VT Food Innovations Center, Floyd County Planning and Economic Development, and the NRV Regional Commission. The competition is made possible through a Department of Housing and Community Development Vibrant Communities Initiative Grant.

    Millstone Kitchen is a shared use commercial kitchen located in Blacksburg, VA, and operated by the nonprofit Live Work Eat Gather, Inc. The mission of Live, Work, Eat, Gather, Inc. is to cultivate and nourish community through the support of local food and farms, the creation and growth of jobs, the security of a home, and the gathering of friends and neighbors.

    More information on both projects can be found at our websites: www.millstonekitchen.org and www.oldschoolpricesfork.org.

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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.