10 Most Popular Blog Posts of 2023

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia’s New River Valley has experienced an exciting 2023! Let’s count down the top ten 2023 posts on TheNRV.org website. The following posts had the most pageviews online:

10. Broadband Partnership Brings Countywide Fiber to Floyd

Citizens Telephone Coop recently reported that their Countywide Broadband Expansion project with Floyd County is almost complete. This will make Floyd “the first of a handful of rural counties to achieve universal broadband in the Commonwealth.”

9. 2 NRV Locations Featured in Southern Living For Best Fall Foliage in Virginia

Southern Living recently highlighted two locations in the New River Valley on their “15 Virginia Parks Where You Can Catch the Best Fall Foliage” list. Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County was #4 and Mabry Mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Floyd County was #9.

8. NRV Companies Announce 2,530 jobs and $551 million in Investment Since 2018

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.

7. Radford University Partners with City of Radford to Launch The HUB

The HUB at Radford for Economic Development opened on October 17th following a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This new partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford will “serve as an economic development support system to help businesses thrive in the City of Radford and across the region.

6. NRV Famers Market Trail

If local vegetables, handpicked flowers, and fresh baked goods are what define your summer, then it’s time to hit the NRV Farmers Market Trail. Each market brings its own finds and, in some cases, music. Explore the exciting flavors that abound in the New River Valley by grabbing your bag and joining us as we delve into the local NRV Farmers Market Trail.

5. New LewisGale Montgomery ER Coming to Christiansburg

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.

4. Camrett Logistics to Expand and Create 58 New Jobs in Pulaski County

Camrett Logistics is expanding their capacity in Pulaski County, creating 58 new jobs and investing $2 million into the area.

3. Virginia Tech Ranks Top 3 Best College Campuses in America

Virginia Tech ranks third in 2020 Best College Campuses by Niche.com.

2. Fall Activities in the NRV

Join us as we explore fall in the NRV! The list has a little something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Four NRV Businesses Named Best Employers in Virginia by Forbes

Forbes recently released their 5th annual list of America’s Best Employers by State. Several New River Valley companies made the list for Virginia: Virgina Tech, BAE Systems, Carilion Clinic, and Volvo Group.

Discover more of the 2023 news from around Virginia’s New River Valley visit here.

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

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

Radford University and Virginia Tech Among Best Student Cost of Living in VA

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New River Valley, VA – Radford University and Virginia Tech are among the top 10 best colleges for student cost of living in Virginia according to SmartAsset.com Radford University is ranked #6 for 2023 and Virginia Tech is ranked #7 for 2023.

According to SmartAsset’s methodology, the company “compares schools based on a variety of financial factors and data sets, including starting salary, tuition, living expenses, student retention rate, and scholarships awarded”.

See SmartAsset’s Best Student Cost of Living in Virginia rankings list and the methodology for their placements here.

Learn more about higher education in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Photo: Radford University on the right and Virginia Tech on the left

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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 Leaders Listed in 4th Annual Virginia 500 By Virginia Business

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New River Valley, VA – Four leaders across the New River Valley were recently listed in the 4th annual “Virginia 500 – The 2023-24 Power List” published by Virginia Business Magazine. With a long tradition of leadership in the Commonwealth, Virginia Business Magazine created the Power List “to be an insightful and helpful resource on leaders in Virginia”. Read more about how Virginia Business created the list here.

The NRV leaders that made the Virginia 500 are:

  • Brent Pry | Sports | Football Head Coach, Virginia Tech
  • Tim Sands | Education | President, Virginia Tech
  • Koen Knippenberg | Manufacturing | Executive Vice President and General Manager, Volvo Group Trucks Operations North America
  • Elizabeth McClanahan | Nonprofits | Chief Executive Officer, Virginia Tech Foundation

Learn more about the leaders, industries, and communities in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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

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

Radford University Launches Free Tuition Program for Virginia Residents

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Radford, VA – Radford University recently announced that it is promoting access to affordable higher education through its Radford Tuition Promise. For qualifying incoming undergraduate freshman and transfer students that are Virginia residents, the Radford Tuition Promise will cover the full cost of their tuition at Radford University. The program is funded by federal, state, and institutional gift aid.

Radford University is a comprehensive public university of 7,718 students that has received national recognition for many of its undergraduate and graduate academic programs, as well as its sustainability initiatives. Radford University’s main campus sits on 221 acres in the City of Radford where students are offered many opportunities to get involved and succeed in and out of the classroom. The University offers 76 bachelor’s degree programs in 47 disciplines, two associate degrees, and six certificates at the undergraduate level; 28 master’s programs in 23 disciplines and six doctoral programs at the graduate level; and 17 post-baccalaureate certificates and one post-master’s certificate.

Discover more about Radford University and the City of Radford here.

Learn more about the Radford Tuition Promise here.

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

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

Radford University Partners with City of Radford to Launch The HUB

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Radford, VA – The HUB at Radford for Economic Development opened on October 17th following a ribbon-cutting ceremony. This new partnership between Radford University and the City of Radford will “serve as an economic development support system to help businesses thrive in the City of Radford and across the region. The dynamic facility will transform how the university engages with businesses and communities to support economic development while carrying out its mission.”

Radford University’s Vice President for Economic Development and Corporate Education, Dr. Angela Joyner said in a university press release, “The HUB will help our region connect to university resources, such as talent, faculty expertise and workforce solutions. It can also serve as a place to collaborate on initiatives that will help our region thrive.”

Watch the ribbon cutting here.

Read the press release from Radford University here.

Discover more about the City of Radford here.

The New River Valley is much more than a region with beautiful scenery and diverse people. It’s a perfect location for your business to flourish. Explore what makes the New River Valley a natural fit for your company 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.

Regional Consortium Awarded Federal Tech Hubs Strategy Development Grant

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Regional Consortium Awarded Federal Tech Hubs Strategy Development Grant

10.24.23 / PRESS RELEASES

Oct. 23, 2023 – A consortium led by the New River Valley Regional Commission has been selected for a highly competitive $500,000 federal Tech Hubs Strategy Development Grant.

“This is exciting news and a testament to our region’s burgeoning prowess in additive manufacturing and applied materials,” said Kevin Byrd, executive director of the New River Valley Regional Commission. “This award will accelerate our work to help small- and medium-sized manufacturers adopt and implement these new technologies, grow their business, and create jobs at all skill levels.”

“This is exciting news and a testament to our region’s burgeoning prowess in additive manufacturing and applied materials. This award will accelerate our work to help small- and medium-sized manufacturers adopt and implement these new technologies, grow their business, and create jobs at all skill levels.” – Kevin Byrd, executive director of the New River Valley Regional Commission

The U.S. Economic Development Administration received more than 400 applications for the Tech Hubs Program. It was created as part of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 to drive innovation by strengthening a region’s capacity to manufacture, commercialize, and deploy critical technologies.

On Monday, the EDA announced it has designated 31 Tech Hubs and awarded 29 Strategy Development Grants in Phase 1 of the program. Tech Hub designees are eligible to apply for a handful of $40 million to $70 million implementation grants that will be awarded in Phase 2.

The New River Valley-based proposal centers on a set of world class technology assets that includes Virginia Tech and MELD Manufacturing Corporation, maker of large scale, metal 3D printers. It heavily leverages the Virginia Tech College of Engineering’s Advanced Manufacturing Team, led by Professor Chris Williams. This team, composed of 15 faculty from across the college, conducts research and education around advanced manufacturing technologies, such as additive manufacturing and advanced materials.

“This is another step toward our goal of creating a globally competitive hub of excellence in this technology area, which is critical for our national competitiveness and security” said Williams, the L.S. Randolph Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering. “I see this opportunity as yet another way in which we strive to fulfill Virginia Tech’s land-grant mission.”

The Strategy Development Grant provides the consortium, which includes more than 15 partners, with critical resources to work together to refine its strategy and position for future funding opportunities, Byrd said.

The CHIPS and Science Act authorized the Tech Hubs Program at $10 billion; EDA has so far received $500 million – 5 percent – of the authorized dollars. If additional funding is appropriated by Congress, the EDA could offer additional implementation grants beyond Phase 2. Strategy Development Award consortiums are invited by the EDA to apply for future application rounds.

Byrd believes the unique technology and skills across the geographic footprint of the consortium – including multiple partners in the Danville area – helped it earn designation as an inaugural Tech Hubs Strategy Development Consortium. He also credited bipartisan support from Virginia’s congressional delegation. The grant application included a joint letter of support signed by U.S. Sens. Mark Warner and Tim Kaine, along with U.S. Reps. Morgan Griffith and Rob Wittman.

Nanci Hardwick, CEO of MELD Manufacturing, said additive manufacturing is a growing industry that offers the region a chance to distinguish itself.

“Large scale additive manufacturing is critical to supply production parts for industries such as semiconductor equipment manufacturing, the machines that make chips, as well as aerospace, space, and shipbuilding,” she said. “We need to expand our capability to deliver these parts as fast as we can and this grant will allow us to bring together key partners to develop a plan for growth that benefits the community.”

The regional collaboration behind the Tech Hubs consortium’s proposal builds off a federal Build Back Better proposal led by Virginia Tech last year. John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement, said the strategy development endorsement from the EDA reflects the momentum of the region and validates the focus in additive manufacturing.

“It’s a testament to the dedication and collaboration within our community,” he said. “With this award, we’ll be able to strengthen our region’s position in the tech industry.”

“It’s a testament to the dedication and collaboration within our community. With this award, we’ll be able to strengthen our region’s position in the tech industry.” – John Provo, executive director of Virginia Tech’s Center for Economic and Community Engagement

Consortium members include: Hollingsworth & Vose, which operates a Floyd County location and makes advanced materials; Radford University; New River Community College; MELD PrintWorks, a spinoff of MELD Manufacturing; Fastech, a Danville-based 3D metal printing and engineering firm; Volvo Trucks in Dublin; the Virginia Manufacturers Association; the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center; the Verge alliance; the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board; Onward New River Valley; the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance; and the Danville-based Institute for Advanced Learning and Research. The counties of Floyd, Giles, Montgomery, and Pulaski and the cities of Danville and Radford are members too.

Media contact: Kevin Byrd
kbyrd@nrvrc.org
New River Valley Regional Commission

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

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

Radford University Ranks #2 on Forbes VA’s Best Online Colleges 2023

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Radford, VA – Forbes recently ranked Radford University’s online programs as some of the best in Virginia. Forbes stated that “Virginia is a state to watch as its technology sector becomes one of the most diverse and fast-paced in the nation.” They ranked online colleges in Virginia that can provide hands-on learning for people to build their ideal profession. Radford University was second on the Best Virginia Online Colleges of 2023 list. Forbes picked Radford University because students can “choose from standard bachelor’s degrees, bachelor’s completion programs, and accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s degrees. Some are available in a hybrid format for learners who prefer in-person instruction.” Forbes’ rankings were based on learning, affordability, and student outcomes. Learn more about their methodology here. Read the full article here. Discover more about the City of Radford and Radford University 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 Researchers Receive Funding for Cybersecurity Projects

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia Tech recently reported that “the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative (CCI) will be investing approximately $700,000 in seven experiential learning projects that give students crucial cybersecurity, on-the-job training in areas such as privacy protection and mobile software development.”

Of the seven projects selected, Radford University spearheads a project about technology enabled internships with mentoring and Virginia Tech leads another one concerning the “use and abuse of personal information” with technology.

According to CCI’s website they are “Virginia’s main access point for cybersecurity research, innovation, workforce development, and news. In this community, researchers find funding and collaboration, students discover diverse career possibilities, and new innovations come to life.”

Read the full article here.

See the full list of projects here.

The NRV has exceptional education programs from world-class universities that are producing some of the best IT workforce in the country, making the region a natural fit for companies in the cybersecurity and the information technology sectors. Discover more about the innovative IT landscape in the NRV here.

Photo by fauxels

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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.

New River Community College Ranks #4 for Best College Tuition in Virginia

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Pulaski County, VA– New River Community College ranks fourth for Best College Tuition in the state of Virginia by SmartAsset. SmartAsset determined the rankings for Best College Tuition by looking at five different categories: student retention rate, tuition, student cost of living, scholarships and grant offerings, and starting salary for new graduates.

New River Community College (NRCC) is a comprehensive community college, with locations in Pulaski County and Montgomery County, that has earned a reputation for their first-class instruction. NRCC has a wide selection of courses that can help prepare any student for various occupational programs or the opportunity for college transfer courses.

NRCC also participates in the Access to Community College Education (ACCE) program. ACCE is an economic development public/private partnership in the New River Valley that makes college available debt-free to high school and home-school students by funding NRCC tuition for two years. Graduates of the ACCE program are prepared to join the workforce or transfer to a four-year college without any debt.

Learn more about the ACCE program here.

Discover more about New River Community College and higher education in the NRV here.

See the full rankings of colleges 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.

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.