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.

NRV Companies Announce 2,530 Jobs and $551 Million in Investment Since 2018

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has seen great economic success in the last 5 years. 24 new or expanding companies announced plans to create 2,530 jobs and invest over $551 million in the NRV region.

Onward NRV, the regional economic development organization for Virginia’s New River Valley, reported that the economic growth surpassed their goals set in their Onward 2023 five-year strategic plan for the region. Their original goals were $180 million in new capital investment and 1,720 new jobs.

Onward NRV Executive Director Katie Boswell said, “Virginia’s New River Valley is a great place to live, work, and do business, which is why so many companies have located or expanded in our region over the past five years. We appreciate the businesses who choose to grow in our region, which helps to bring jobs and economic vitality to the New River Valley. Finally, we are grateful for our partnerships with our local economic development organizations, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, and the many other regional stakeholders that contribute to economic development. Without collaboration, these projects would not be possible.”

Here are some selected wins that highlight the New River Valley’s economic growth and success over the past five years:

  • Volvo Group announced in June 2019 that they would invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America assembly operation in Pulaski County, creating 777 new jobs.
  • Torc Robotics announced in August 2020 they would create 350 new jobs and invest $8.5 million to expand their software development operations in Montgomery County.
  • Oransi announced in April 2021 they would create 101 new jobs and bring their first manufacturing facility to the City of Radford, investing $5.6 million.
  • Hollingsworth & Vose announced in January 2023 that they would expand one of their two existing plants in Floyd County, bringing $40.2 million in capital investment and 25 new jobs.

Browse press releases from NRV economic development announcements over the past five years here.

Explore the Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s list of economic development announcements here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is the perfect location to let your business flourish. The area is affordable, accessible, innovative, and enjoyable. To learn more about doing business in Virginia’s New River Valley click here.

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

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

Grucci to Expand and Create 45 Jobs in Pulaski County

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World-Renowned Fireworks Display Company and Manufacturer to invest $5.5 million, create 45 jobs in Pulaski County

RICHMOND—Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci, the sixth-generation family business and worldwide fireworks design and performance company and manufacturer of fireworks and pyrotechnic devices for the U.S. military, will invest $5.5 million to expand its assembly, storage, and distribution operations to Pulaski County. The company will occupy the former Koinonia Tapes and Foams 30,000-square-foot facility in ShaeDawn Industrial Park in proximity to its manufacturing operation at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant in Montgomery County. Virginia successfully competed with New York for the project, which will create 45 new jobs.

“Magnificent displays of fireworks have brought generations of families together for more than a century because of pyrotechnics leaders like the Grucci family,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “The Commonwealth is a strategic gateway to markets served by a robust workforce, and we thank Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci for recognizing these advantages and expanding their Virginia footprint into Pulaski County.”

“We are proud to have this historic and world-renowned company expand its assembly, storage, and distribution operations in Pulaski County,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “In addition to fireworks displays that captivate millions around the globe, the Gruccis also manufacture pyrotechnic training devices for the U.S. military that prepare our troops. Virginia’s combination of connectivity, infrastructure, and talent provide the crucial elements for Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci to thrive, and we look forward to supporting the company’s continued success in the Commonwealth.”

“Virginia offers our family and employees great incentives of viability, stability, and a path to expand and grow our business that is second to none,” said Felix Grucci, CEO of Fireworks by Grucci and Pyrotechnique by Grucci Inc. “This long-term investment and expansion to Pulaski is a testament to our continued commitment to the state of Virginia, the counties of Pulaski and Montgomery, and our employees. My son, Christopher, and his wife, Lemonia, both working within the family business representing the sixth generation, made a similar commitment by moving from New York to become residents of Virginia.”

“We love that Grucci is a sixth-generation family-oriented company, and we are very excited and honored to have them officially join our family of businesses here in Pulaski County,” said Laura Walters, Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors. “This project took a tremendous amount of effort to compete for and win, and I couldn’t be more grateful to our economic development team, our board, the EDA, VEDP, our state representatives, and Governor Youngkin for helping bring this world-renowned name in pyrotechnics to our community.”

“Grucci is an industry leader that is thriving as part of the advanced manufacturing sector in Virginia’s New River Valley,” said Katie Boswell, Executive Director of Onward New River Valley. “We are pleased that they have decided to continue their growth in our region with this exciting announcement in Pulaski County.”

“I’m thrilled to announce more investment in our region by a great multi-generational family company such as Grucci,” said Senator Travis Hackworth. “Working with Governor Youngkin, we have been able to make our region more attractive to new business and job investments. I look forward to welcoming Grucci to our region and am excited about the jobs they will create for Pulaski!”

Fireworks by Grucci is a sixth-generation, family owned-and-operated Fireworks Performance Company with its primary corporate studio in Bellport, New York. Known as “America’s First Family of Fireworks”, the Gruccis have transformed the night skies to the delight of millions across the globe since 1850. The company is world-renowned for pyrotechnic artistry, scientific innovation, and old-fashioned values. The company’s signature performances include the official celebration of the 200th Anniversary of the National Anthem “Star Spangled Spectacular” in Baltimore, eight U.S. Presidential Inaugurations, the Olympic Games in Beijing, Salt Lake City, Los Angeles, and Lake Placid, and commemorations such as the Centennial of the Statue of Liberty. Fireworks by Grucci is also an 11-time Guinness World Record Holder.

Phil Grucci, fifth generation and current CEO, diversified their family business in 1989 by participating in a solicited competition and receiving an award to manufacture a series of Department of Defense pyrotechnic simulators. These simulators are designed as training devices that simulate the distinctive whistle and bang of an incoming mortar round, or the pull, throw, and bang of a hand grenade. Due to the expanded success of this military venture, the family officially founded a training device manufacturing business in 1997 based in Montgomery County, where it leases 400 acres at the Radford Army Ammunition Plant.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $212,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pulaski County with the project. Fireworks by Grucci is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

Office of the Governor
Macaulay Porter
Email: Macaulay.Porter@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Nicole Hansen
Email: nhansen@vedp.org

Fireworks by Grucci
MaDonna Overstreet
Email: moverstreet@grucci.com

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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.

Patrick Enterprises Corporation Plans Expansion

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Giles County, VA – Patrick Enterprises Corporation is planning an expansion to meet the needs of future projects according to a recent press release from Giles County. Patrick Enterprises is a custom metal fabrication company in Pembroke that is celebrating its fortieth year in business in 2023. 95% of the company’s current 25 employees have been working at Patrick Enterprises for over 10 years.

Patrick Enterprises is planning to invest in new machinery and technology which will spur on the need for an additional five positions this spring and another 25 positions in the future. One of the reasons for this upcoming investment is the company’s partnership with Trova Commercial Vehicles in Pulaski County to manufacture components for Trova CV’s new products. Patrick Enterprises believes that working with the startup company will bring new opportunities for employment and growth. They are excited about the future as they expand their products and facilities.

Watch a video about Patrick Enterprises Corporation here.

Learn more about Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

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

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

Inmotion Recognized as One of Top Virginia Employers for Internships

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Montgomery County, VA – Inmotion received an award for Top Virginia Employers for Interns in 2022. This inaugural award was a collaboration between The Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP), the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) and the Virginia Chamber of Commerce . The award recognized 32 recipients who were selected for their work-based learning opportunities.

Interns at Inmotion ‘get immersed in real role activities they would actually see in their careers’.

The recipients’ programs were picked based on a variety of factors, including “a minimum 8-13 week-long internship; exposure to senior leadership, structured mentorship programs, and team lunches, social events and learning opportunities”.

Review the full list of award recipients here.

Does your company have interns for the summer? Enroll them in the NRV Experience program hosted by Onward NRV. The seven-week program features a series of community engagements, professional development, 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 with 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.

Oransi to Manufacture Air Filters in Radford

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

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

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

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

Read the article detailing Oransi’s manufacturing plans here.

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

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for your business here.

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

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

Harmonia Founder Wins Virginia Business Women in Leadership Award

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Montgomery County, VA – Pallabi Saboo, Founder of Harmonia Holdings Group LLC, was among 30 women selected for the inaugural Virginia Business Women in Leadership Award awarded in 2021. The award recognized those who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in their field and made significant contributions to their community.

Virginia Business reported that Harmonia, a software company headquartered in Blacksburg, VA, grew “from 10 employees and less than $2 million in revenue to 400 workers and $90 million in revenue” under the direction of Pallabi Saboo. Harmonia has also received numerous awards and recognitions under her leadership.

Discover more about the winners of the Virginia Business Women in Leadership Award here.

Virginia’s New River Valley is a natural fit for companies in the Information Technology industry. With exceptional education programs from local colleges and universities, the NRV is producing some of the best IT workforce in the country.

Discover why Virginia’s New River Valley is a Natural Fit for you and your business here.

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

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

NRV Company Selected for Johnson and Johnson Innovation Virtual Residency

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Montgomery County, VA – Qentoros , headquartered in Blacksburg, Virginia, was one of three companies recently selected to participate in a virtual mentorship program by The Virginia Tech Research Center and Johnson and Johnson Innovation (JLABS) . This program has been established to help emerging biotech and life science startups.

Brett Malone, President and CEO of the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center, had this to say about the collaboration:

“These companies will have a much greater chance of getting their potentially-life saving innovations to patients because of the quality of global services and mentorship that JLABS brings to the table. We’re also excited to provide lab space in Blacksburg based on the companies’ needs.”
Read the full announcement of the Virtual Residency here.

Explore more about Montgomery County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”   Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.  
Homegrown NRV Companies Highlighted in Virginia Economic Review

Homegrown NRV Companies Highlighted in Virginia Economic Review

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

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

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

Explore all the NRV’s business advantages here.

Read the full “State of Success” issue of the Virginia Economic Review here.

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

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

Giles County Awarded Nearly $400,000 for Site Development

Giles County Awarded Nearly $400,000 for Site Development

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Giles County, VA – In January 2023, Giles County was awarded a $387,865 grant from the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program (VBRSP) for site development. The funds will be used to continue the development of Wheatland EcoPark. Wheatland EcoPark is a 130-acre industrial park located adjacent to US-460.

Wheatland EcoPark was one of 21 Virginia sites to receive funding from VBRSP. VBRSP is a discretionary program that is run by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). Its purpose is “to promote development and characterization of sites to enhance the Commonwealth’s infrastructure and promote its competitive business environment.” A total of $90 million in grants were awarded throughout the Commonwealth.

Read the full press release announcing the Fiscal Year 2023 VBRSP recipients here.

Learn more about the Virginia Business Ready Sites Program here.

Explore Giles County, a community in Virginia’s New River Valley, here.

Browse available sites and buildings 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.