New LewisGale Montgomery ER Coming to Christiansburg

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Montgomery County, VA – WDBJ7 recently reported that work has begun on a new emergency room in the town of Christiansburg. This will be LewisGale’s first freestanding ER in the New River Valley. There are 2 others located in the Roanoke area.

HCA LewisGale Montgomery COO Devin Tobin said, “We have seen it really enhance the ER services in a community and bring that care closer to home. So, we when looking about where do we put the next one, how do we bring care to the community, Christiansburg was the perfect selection for that.”

WDBJ7 stated that “the ER will be an extension of LewisGale Montgomery and the two facilities will work together to provide patient care.”

Watch the full story here.

Photo by Pixabay

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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.

Innovative Startups Find Opportunities in the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) is the perfect location for businesses to flourish. It’s not hard to see why many startup businesses choose to be part of the economic landscape in the NRV. With its easy access to talent, strategic location, and an innovative businesses community, the NRV is a natural fit for any business.

Several NRV startups are innovating in different sectors across the region.

  • Good Food Groups, LLC located in Pulaski County seeks to manufacture functional foods that contain a substance that helps individuals maintain weight, build muscle, and lose fat. They were recently selected to participate in the RAMP program that gives them access to regional resources and support. Learn more here.
  • MacroVation, LLC also located in Pulaski County designs sustainable biomaterials such as additives that rend plastics biodegradable after use and 3D printable materials from seaweed to manufacture medical devices. MacroVation was also selected to be part of the RAMP program.
  • Fermi Energy in Montgomery County is developing electric vehicle batteries that would help solve supply chain issues of hard-to-get materials like cobalt and nickel. Their goal is to create a battery that would come from locally sourced materials. Through Virginia Tech, they won $2.9 million in grant money from the U.S Department of Energy. Read the full story of them in the Cardinal News here.
  • Vegg Inc. has also found a home in Pulaski County. They are introducing novel solutions for indoor farming by repurposing old school buildings for vertical farming companies. WSLS recently featured a story on them. You can watch the story here.
  • Cowden Technologies in Montgomery County is automating the logistical requirements of uncrewed systems. This is a system that uses robotics to support the drone ecosystem. Cowden Technologies was recently accepted into the NVIDIA Inception program that will give them access to cutting edge technology, venture capitalists, and technical resources. Read the press release here.
  • MOVA Technologies in Pulaski County uses air capture technology for air purification and air pollution control. They recently closed on a $2 million seed funding round that will help with the organization’s growth. Read the full MOVA press release here.

Find out how your business can become a part of this innovative 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.

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.

Virginia Tech Agribusiness Program Featured in Valley Business FRONT

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech’s agribusiness program was recently featured in Valley Business FRONT. The article highlighted that Virginia Tech is “among the top ten institutions in America for agricultural degrees.”

According to the article, agribusiness is an industry that is continuing to evolve thanks to technology. Virginia Tech is looking to prepare students for both emerging and traditional trends in agribusiness which will allow them access to one of the largest industries in the world.

Read the full Valley Business FRONT here.

Agriculture has been a staple in Virginia’s New River Valley for centuries and is full of passionate people who care about the natural environment and locally sourced food. With access to the highly sought after graduates at Virginia Tech, it’s not hard to see why the NRV is a natural fit for agribusiness. Find out how your food processing and agribusiness company can thrive 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.

NRV Organizations Recognized as Top Virginia Employers for Interns

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New River Valley, VA – The Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP) recently recognized 100 organizations as the 2023 Top Virginia Employers for Interns. Multiple organizations throughout Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) were included on this list. The region continues to be recognized as a top location to live, work, and do business.

The award is a collaboration between V-TOP, the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) in partnership with the Virginia Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Virginia Business Higher Education Council. V-TOP is funded by the General Assembly’s Commonwealth Innovative Internship Fund and Program.

The NRV recipients are:

The 2023 Top Virginia Employer Intern award recipients were recognized for the quality of their internship programs. Those who received the award were evaluated based on efforts to include training for industry certifications, housing allowance, paid time off, security clearance, structured mentorship programs, and exposure to senior leadership.

Review the full list of recipients here.

Companies in Virginia’s New River Valley have the added benefit of the opportunity to enroll their interns in the NRV Experience hosted by Onward NRV. The seven-week long summer program features a series of community excursions, professional development trainings, and networking opportunities for your summer interns. These events connect them with other interns in the region while showcasing lifestyle amenities the New River Valley has to offer. Find out why you should enroll your interns in the NRV Experience 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.

MOVA Technologies Opens R & D Facility in Pulaski

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Pulaski County, VA – The Patriot recently reported that MOVA Technologies has opened a Research & Development facility in the Town of Pulaski. According to MOVA’s website, they are a “ClimateTech company specializing in air-capture technology applying sustainable, circular principles to selectively capture and harvest contaminants as valuable byproducts that can be sold and reused.”

The Research & Development (R & D) facility will allow for enhanced production and design of MOVA’s state-of-the-art pollutant capture technology.

MOVA CEO John Schott said, “We’re researching selective air filtration technology so that we can target a specific contaminant for capture and harvesting … so that it can be redeployed as a resource.”

MOVA anticipates expanding their current R & D workforce and building a bigger facility in the next few years.

Read the full article here.

Discover more about Pulaski County here.

photo by William Paine of The Patriot

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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.

MELD Printworks Featured in Valley Business FRONT

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

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

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

Read the full Valley Business FRONT article here.

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

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

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

FAA Conducts Drone Flight Tests at Virginia Tech

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

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

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

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

Read the WSLS News story here.

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

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

Spectrum Brands Celebrates 30 Years in Blacksburg

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

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

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

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

Read Spectrum Brands’ full press release here.

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

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