Prime Photonics Completes VEDP International Business Acceleration Program

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Richmond, VA — The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) today announced that 14 companies from across the Commonwealth have graduated from its Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) Program. The program, which now has 304 graduates, assists Virginia exporters that have firmly established their domestic operations and are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy.

“The Virginia Leaders in Export Trade program helps companies of all sizes expand into global markets, positioning our existing businesses for growth and significantly contributing to the Commonwealth’s economic vitality,” said Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “The VALET Program provides the critical tools and expertise for participants to navigate new markets and successfully export products overseas. We congratulate these 14 Virginia companies on their international growth, and applaud the Virginia Economic Development Partnership for facilitating this impactful program.” The graduating companies recognized during an event in Richmond include:

Prime Photonics, LC (Montgomery County)
AT&T Business – Global Public Sector – Defense (Fairfax County)
Blue Ridge Optics, LLC (Bedford County)
Boss Lumber (Mediterranean Corporation) (City of Galax)
DESMI Inc. (City of Chesapeake)
FUJIFILM Wako Chemicals USA (Chesterfield County)
Harris Healthcare (Fairfax County)
Instant Systems Inc. (City of Norfolk)
JRC Integrated Systems (King George County)
McQ Inc. (Stafford County)
SD Solutions LLC (Page County)
Strongwell Corporation (City of Bristol)
Symplicity Corporation (Arlington County)
Trident Systems Incorporated (Fairfax County)

Currently, the VALET program has 44 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. To date, 348 Virginia companies have participated in the VALET program.

“Increasing trade and trade-related jobs in Virginia are among VEDP’s top priorities. Executed by our world-class International Trade team, the VALET program has a proven track record of helping Virginia businesses increase their export sales. We are confident that the companies graduating today will see continued global success in the coming years, contributing meaningful growth to the Commonwealth’s economy.”
– Jason El Koubi, VEDP Executive Vice President

The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion, and international trade development.

For more information on the VALET Program click here.

###

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.

Aeroprobe Corporation Selected to Participate in Virginia’s VALET Program

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

RICHMOND, VA — The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) announced the acceptance of Aeroprobe Corporation, a Montgomery County company, into its two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. The VALET program assists companies in the Commonwealth that are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy. To participate, each business must meet both quantitative and qualitative selection criteria. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growing export sales. To date, 348 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

“Increasing trade and trade-related jobs in Virginia are among VEDP’s top priorities,” said VEDP Executive Vice President Jason El Koubi. “Executed by our world-class International Trade team, the VALET program has a proven track record of helping Virginia businesses increase their export sales, contributing economic growth and ensuring that Virginia remains competitive in the global marketplace.”

“The VALET program puts participating companies on the fast track to international business growth by connecting them with the necessary tools for successful international sales. We are excited to welcome Aeroprobe Corporation into the VALET Program and look forward to working with them over the course of the next two years.” – Stephanie Agee, Vice President of International Trade

Currently, the VALET program has 44 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. These private sector service providers contribute essential expertise to assist companies in executing export plans and include attorneys, web designers, bankers, translators, accountants, and freight forwarders.

The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

Aeroprobe Corporation

Aeroprobe is the world’s leading producer of air data and flow measurement systems for the aerospace, automotive, turbomachinery, and wind energy industries around the world. Aeroprobe has been a trusted partner to designers, engineers, researchers, and pilots since 1994. The company’s mission is to exceed customer expectations by providing accurate, high quality, reliable measurement systems. For more information, please visit http://www.aeroprobe.com.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade development.

###

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

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

virginia business; new river valley

Virginia Business Features NRV Leaders in ‘100 People to Meet in 2020’

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – Virginia Business released its inaugural list of Virginians you should get to know this year including innovators, builders, and educators in the NRV.

Innovators
Virginia has no dearth of creative, visionary entrepreneurs and businesspeople. Representing industries ranging from hemp farming to autonomous vehicles and blockchain, they’re moving the needle.

Steven Critchfield, President and CEO, MOVA Technologies; owner, West Main Development, Pulaski
Matt Hagan, Owner and farmer, Truharvest Farms, Christiansburg
Dan Larimer, Chief technology officer, Block.one, Blacksburg

Builders
Be it residential or commercial, historic renovation or new construction, from small-scale, mixed-use developments to massive interstate highway projects, these are some of the many professionals who are leaving their imprint on Virginia’s landscape.

Luke Allison, Entrepreneur, Pulaski

Educators
When Virginia regained the No. 1 ranking on CNBC’s annual Top States for Business list this year, one of the factors that put the Old Dominion over the top was our “wealth of colleges and universities,” lauded by CNBC as “the best in the nation.” These are some of the educators, researchers and administrators who helped the commonwealth earn that reputation.

Mark Blanks, Director, Virginia Tech Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, Blacksburg
Tom Dingus, Executive director, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, Blacksburg
Brandy Salmon, Managing director, Virginia Tech Innovation Campus; associate vice president for clinical and translational research, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg and Alexandria

Rainmakers
Through their outreach, marketing and incentives, these are people who attract and grow businesses, making the commonwealth wealthier.

Donna Gambrell, President and CEO, Appalachian Community Capital, Christiansburg

###

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.

manufacturing

A Hot Spot for International Manufacturing

/0 Comments/in , /by
New River Valley, VA – “Winding north along I-81 you’ll find Virginia’s New River Valley, home to small-town communities and spectacular outdoor recreation along the mountains and the winding New River. The area’s charm and quality of life are among the attractions for international companies. The New River Valley consists of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, and Pulaski counties and the City of Radford. It’s also home to Virginia Tech, one of the Commonwealth’s largest universities and a leading research center, as well as Radford University, and New River Community College. As a result, a large percentage of the region’s 180,000 residents are between 18 and 24 and contribute to the pipeline of talent for area companies. That pipeline has proven to be a powerful lure for a diverse number of international manufacturers. “There is a significant presence of international manufacturing companies in the region, including companies from Germany, Sweden, Brazil, Colombia, and Italy, among others,” explained Charlie Jewell, executive director of Onward New River Valley, the region’s economic development organization. Among the notable successes is Phoenix Packaging. The Colombia-based plastic injection molding manufacturer has been manufacturing plastic packaging for the food industry in the New River Valley since 2010. In the past eight years the company has expanded three times, adding a total of 585 new jobs and $106.2 million in investment. The most recent expansion occurred in 2017 and created 145 new jobs and $48.7 million in investment. Virginia Tech’s focus on providing engineering, manufacturing, and transportation research (not to mention skilled college graduates) to local companies has encouraged many global manufacturers to call the region home. That research capability compelled InMotion, a manufacturer of electric motors and drives for electric and hybrid vehicles, to create a home in Montgomery County in 2014. The company invested over $5 million to establish its first U.S. manufacturing operation in Blacksburg. The subsidiary of Italy-based Zapi S.p.A. employs 80 people there. “Montgomery County has an outstanding combination of local talent and cost- effective facilities, as well as improved access to Virginia Tech and its world-class electric vehicle research,” commented Mike Jellen, general manager of InMotion US, upon announcing the investment. “Our Montgomery County location, with its attractive standard of living, coupled with InMotion’s groundbreaking product development, will continue to attract and retain the industry’s best people.” Virginia Tech’s Transportation Institute (VTTI) counts Volvo Trucks among its stakeholders. The Swedish company’s 1.6-million-square-foot assembly plant in Dublin, Virginia, sits on nearly 300 acres, making it the largest Volvo truck manufacturing facility in the world. The plant produces all Volvo trucks sold in North America. And while the company now boasts its own 1.1-mile Customer Experience Track for testing equipment handling, the company also works closely with Virginia Tech researchers. VTTI is supporting the global manufacturer in research on self-driving trucks, among other projects. While transportation companies make up only a part of the international players investing in Virginia, transportation certainly is part of the appeal. Being close to the customer “takes complexity out of the supply chain,” commented Korona S.A. Chairman Friedrich Rather, when the Polish candlemaker expanded into the U.S. The company invested $18.3 million in a manufacturing facility in Dublin and created 170 new jobs in the process. Korona Candles is one of the largest scented-candle manufacturers in Europe and produces private-label collections for many leading companies. Its executives’ decision to add a second production plant in Virginia expanded distribution worldwide, and gave the company the benefit of local employee training services available through New River Community College. Targeted machine training is critical in operating the technology central to the candlemaker’s processes. These international commitments help to grow local investments in the workforce and infrastructure. It’s a combination likely to continue to attract innovative employers, making it little wonder Zippia ranked the New River Valley the No. 6 top U.S. job market of 2018.” Original article from Virginia Economic Review can be found HERE.
###
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.

BimmerWorld to Invest $1 Million Expansion

/0 Comments/in , , , /by
<>Richmond, VA — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that BimmerWorld, a leading BMW parts supplier, will invest $1 million to expand its operation in Pulaski County. The company will increase warehouse space to accommodate its customer service center and growing demand for parts. The project will retain 25 jobs and create 15 new jobs. “BimmerWorld is a great example of what a homegrown Virginia startup can achieve in the New River Valley,” said Governor Northam. “This innovative company has built a solid reputation in a niche market, and the continued investment in its operation is a strong testament to the region’s skilled workforce and flourishing automotive sector. We congratulate BimmerWorld on its next phase of growth and look forward to the company’s continued success in Pulaski County.” Founded in 1997 by James Clay, BimmerWorld began as a supplier of used BMW parts and quickly grew to offer replacement parts, performance parts, and race parts for all BMW enthusiasts. Located in Southwest Virginia, BimmerWorld is a leading BMW parts supplier with customers spanning the globe.
“BimmerWorld has thrived in Pulaski County for more than two decades, and Virginia is proud to have this unique company on its corporate roster. The region’s pro-business environment, robust workforce, and training programs promote the success of companies of all sizes, and we thank BimmerWorld for continuing to invest and create valuable, 21st-century jobs in the New River Valley.” – Brain Ball, Secretary of Commerce and Trade
“We have built the leading independent BMW performance tuning and parts retailer in North America, and I am proud that it is rooted in Pulaski County where I grew up,” said company founder James Clay. “This newest expansion is a further investment in the local economy and workforce, which are critical to us as we continue to move forward with the growth of our business.” The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Pulaski County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. “We are so proud of BimmerWorld’s continued success here in Pulaski County and what their steady growth means for quality new job opportunities for the citizens of Pulaski County and the New River Valley,” said Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors Andy McCready. “BimmerWorld, like most of our business community, is buoyed by its world-class workforce that ultimately allows them to be industry leaders and effectively compete in the global market.” “Congratulations to James Clay and BimmerWorld on this very exciting news,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “As a successful family-owned local business that I’ve proudly watched grow since its inception, BimmerWorld is an exemplary model of employee talent and commitment in a continuously expanding, competitive industry. Pulaski County, Southwest Virginia, and the Commonwealth are certain to benefit greatly from their continued growth, production potential, and workforce investment.”
###
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.  
NanoSonic

Giles County Company Selected for VALET Program

/0 Comments/in , /by

Two-year export program provides resources to support international business expansion

NanoSonic, Inc., into its two-year Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) program. The VALET program assists companies in the Commonwealth that are committed to international exporting as a growth strategy. To participate, each business must meet both quantitative and qualitative selection criteria. Participating firms are chosen based on their dedication to growing export sales. To date, 335 Virginia companies have been accepted to participate in the VALET program.

“The VALET program, administered by VEDP’s dedicated International Trade team, is one of our most well-regarded tools for bolstering trade activity in the Commonwealth,” said VEDP President and CEO Stephen Moret.

“This world-class program has helped nearly 340 homegrown companies to increase their export sales, contributing economic growth and ensuring that Virginia remains competitive in the global marketplace.” – Stephen Moret

“The VALET program puts participating companies on the fast track to international business growth by connecting them with the necessary tools for successful international sales,” said Paul Grossman, Vice President of International Trade. “We are happy to welcome NanoSonic into the VALET Program and look forward to working with them over the course of the next two years.”

Currently, the VALET program has 45 companies as participants. The program provides participating companies with export planning services and assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet the companies’ international business goals. These private sector service providers contribute essential expertise to assist companies in executing export plans and include attorneys, web designers, bankers, translators, accountants, and freight forwarders.

The Commonwealth of Virginia exports more than $35 billion in goods and services annually. Exports of Virginia’s products and services to the world are vital to the growth of the Commonwealth, supporting more than 257,000 jobs and generating $2 billion in annual tax revenue. VEDP offers numerous programs to assist Virginia companies with selling into the global marketplace and has a network of international market research consultants covering more than 70 countries around the globe.

###

NanoSonic, Inc.

NanoSonic is a Research & Development company specializing in the design and manufacture of innovative materials, especially new materials that are currently unavailable in the commercial market. NanoSonic has developed a range of polymer-based materials and services for the aerospace, defense, and electronics industries, and its clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Energy, and NASA. For more information, please visit http://www.nanosonic.com.

Virginia Economic Development Partnership

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership was created by the Virginia General Assembly in 1995 to encourage, stimulate, and support the development and expansion of the economy of the Commonwealth. To accomplish its objectives of promoting economic expansion within the Commonwealth, the Partnership focuses its efforts on business recruitment, expansion and international trade development.

For more information on the VALET Program, visit http://exportvirginia.org/services/programs-grants.

###

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.”

MOVA

MOVA Technologies Partners with VT to Collect and Recycle Pollutants

/0 Comments/in , /by

Pulaski County, VA – MOVA Technologies is partnering with Virginia Tech to to test a filtration system that could have major implications for fossil fuel-burning plants.

MOVA Technologies recently received $50,000 from Governor Ralph Northam as part of the Commonwealth Research Commercialization Fund Awards to test out prototypes of panel-bed filters. The company is currently in their final stage of testing, which is taking place at VT’s Advanced Power and Propulsion Laboratory. If all goes well, the filters will collect coal fly ash, sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxide, and carbon dioxide and will be contained in a solid sorbent material for safe transport. These chemicals will then be resold to companies who need them for production.

Joseph Meadows, assistant professor of mechanical engineering at VT, will be analyzing the filters at his test cell lab over the next 6 months. The filters will be tested in variety of operating conditions with various containments to test its efficacy and identify which gases are going through the filter. Additionally, Stephen Martin, VT associate professor of chemical engineering, will play a supporting role as the expert in solid sorbents. Martin will be on hand to modify the solid sorbents as needed during the testing phase.

“We’re pleased to keep development of the panel-bed in Southwest Virginia. The majority of our capital investors are from this region, and the technology is designed for applications that could benefit Virginia’s economy, with a specific emphasis on Southwest Virginia.”
    – James Compton, Operations Officer at MOVA Technologies

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this type of carbon filtration technology was not expected to be available until 2030. However, MOVA intends on bringing it to market next year. This system will take up less space as well as reduce costs compared to existing technology. Studies have indicated that the panel-bed could potentially reduce capital and operating costs by 15% and 25%, respectively.

Virginia Tech Knowledge Works conducted a market study that determined this filtration system has the ability to generate annual revenues of between $500 million and $1 billion. The proof-of-concept testing is expected to be complete by March 2020 and from there the company hopes to begin production. Steve Critchfield, MOVA’s president and CEO, wants to bring jobs to Southwest Virginia.

MOVA
“One thing I’m excited about is these fabrication jobs will pay enough to entice people from Southwest Virginia back who are now on oil rigs and pipelines. I’m hoping this will be a major step toward stopping the exodus of people from Southwest Virginia.” – Steve Critchfield

While there is still quite a bit of testing to be done on these panel-beds, MOVA is already researching ways to expand this technology to the agriculture industry helping to removing hazardous emissions and odorous smells.

Check out MOVA Technologies to learn more about the filtration system process and why this project is so important.

Photo Credits: MOVA Technologies

###

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

Volvo Group to Create 777 New Jobs in Pulaski County Expansion

/0 Comments/in , , , , /by
Company to invest nearly $400 million to expand heavy-duty truck manufacturing operation Dublin, VA — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that the Volvo Group will invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America New River Valley (NRV) assembly operation in Pulaski County. Major components of the investment include a new 350,000-square-foot building that will ultimately house truck cab welding operations; an expansion of the existing plant to allow for further improvements to the facility’s paint operations and overall material/production flow; and a variety of equipment upgrades, including installation of several state-of-the-art dynamometers for vehicle testing. Volvo considered sites in multiple other states for the expansion project, which will create 777 new jobs within approximately six years.
“As the leading private employer in the New River Valley, Volvo Trucks has been a bedrock of this community for more than forty years and has fueled the regional economy. The company’s decision to grow its footprint in the Commonwealth not only recognizes the strength of our manufacturing sector, but also reflects the skill of our workers, the quality of life in rural Virginia, and the competitiveness of our business climate.”
    – Governor Ralph Northam
This announcement represents one of the largest capital investments in the history of Southwestern Virginia, and I am confident that this expansion will both prepare the NRV plant for continued success and solidify Volvo’s presence in Pulaski County for decades to come.” Volvo Trucks provides complete transport solutions for customers, offering a full range of medium to heavy duty trucks. Customer support is secured via a global network of 2,100 dealers and workshops in more than 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 15 countries across the globe. In 2018, more than 127,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment, and marine and industrial engines. The Group also provides solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks’ work is based on the core values of quality, safety, and environmental care. The Volvo Trucks facility in Pulaski County is its largest in the world, with 1.6 million square feet on nearly 300 acres and 3,500 employees. “Volvo’s historic investment in an additional facility and upgraded, state-of-the-art equipment at its Pulaski County operation signifies the plant’s future growth, and we are honored to further strengthen Virginia’s corporate partnership with Volvo Trucks North America,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “With its access to markets, robust workforce, and pro-business climate, the New River Valley is a hub for manufacturers from around the world. This investment will position Volvo’s NRV plant for long-term growth and is a testament to the Commonwealth’s competitive advantage.” “This investment will give our employees the tools they need to continue providing our customers the highest quality products,” said Franky Marchand, Vice President and General Manager of the NRV plant. “We’re very grateful to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Pulaski County, and the citizens in this community for their continued support of our business and our people. Creating more value-added processes through these investments is good for our employees, our plant, and our region.” The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County, the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval Commission, and Onward New River Valley to secure the expansion for Virginia. The Volvo Group will be eligible to receive post-performance MEI custom grant payments totaling up to $16.5 million over 10 years, based upon achieving its pledged net new job creation and investment commitments. New job creation will be on top of the baseline employment level of 3,219 in place when project negotiations began in 2018. The company is also eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. “The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors and the Economic Development Authority are most excited to partner with the state to comprehensively support Volvo Trucks and the exceptional men and women who work there with this monumental expansion project, and we are ever confident that their investment and job growth will go a long way to ensuring this company continues to operate and prosper here in our community,” said Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors Andy McCready.
“This announcement is one of the largest capital investments in the history of Southwestern Virginia and it says a tremendous amount about the confidence and trust the Volvo Group has in the Commonwealth, in Pulaski County, in their dedicated workforce, and in the economic development professionals that helped make this project possible.” – Andy McCready
“Volvo Trucks represents the largest private employer in the New River Valley, and I am proud that the Commission could support the company’s continued growth in Virginia,” said Senator Frank Ruff, Chairman of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “This monumental project will enable the company to add nearly 800 new jobs to its existing workforce, creating opportunities for citizens of Pulaski County and the region and further strengthening the Commonwealth’s position as a leader in automotive manufacturing. We thank Volvo for its commitment to Virginia and for being a key source of job creation and investment in our economy.” “The NRV assembly plant is Volvo Trucks’ largest manufacturing facility in the world, and the company’s decision to reinvest in this operation is a significant win for the region and for the Commonwealth,” said Delegate Nick Rush, Vice Chair of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “With support from our local, regional, and state economic development partners, the company has been able to grow in Pulaski County for decades, and we are confident that this major investment will ensure that Volvo Trucks remains a critical employer in the New River Valley for years to come.” “Volvo Trucks’ continued investment and creation of new jobs is a huge opportunity for the hard working people of Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley,” said Senator Benton Chafin. “I want to thank Volvo Trucks for their commitment to the region and seeing the value of reinvesting in the regional workforce and economy. Volvo Trucks is a critical community partner and with the creation of nearly 800 manufacturing jobs, their investment is another step forward in creating a more thriving and diverse regional economy.”
###
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.”
New River Valley Commerce Park

NRV Commerce Park Mentioned in Japan Times

/0 Comments/in , , /by

The Japan Times recently mentioned the New River Valley Commerce Park in Dublin, VA.

Pulaski County is home to many international manufacturers, and the New River Valley Commerce park is ready to help locate even more. The Japan Times noted that Virginia is eager for Japanese partnerships.

FROM THE JAPAN TIMES:

While Virginia is home to many companies from around the world, the southwest region of the state wants to form stronger ties especially with Japan, according to Virginia’s First Regional Industrial Facility Authority, which is promoting its New River Valley Commerce Park.

Board Chair Mary Biggs explained: “Relationship-building with Japanese companies takes a lot of time and effort, but it’s very rewarding. It gives us time to understand how their companies do business, so we are better prepared to provide assistance when they locate here.”

View or download information about the New River Valley Commerce Park.

###

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.”

NRV job fair

NRV Job Fair Expo

/0 Comments/in , , /by

DUBLIN, VA – If your company is looking for new employees, the New River Valley Job Fair Expo is a great place to look. The NRV job fair will help connect companies to highly-skilled workers in the following industries:

  • Healthcare
  • Manufacturing
  • Information Technology
  • Service Industries

    • NRV Job Fair

    Click to enlarge

    The event will be held at New River Community College in Dublin (Edwards Hall, Room 117) from 9am to Noon on April 3, 2019.

    Register at www.surveymonkey.com/r/NRVExpo19.

    For more information contact:
    Kimber Simmons
    540-357-1651
    kimber.simmons@vcwnmr.com.

    ###

    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.”