Floyd C4 2018

Medina Mercantile Takes Top Prize at the Floyd C4 Business Development Series

FROM FLOYD COUNTY – The 4th annual Floyd C4 came to a dramatic conclusion on Monday night, as 8 of the participants in the 6-week business development series gave their best pitch to judges. Contestants had already submitted written business plans, which were confidentially scored by the 3 judges the week before. Each business had 10-minutes to pitch followed by 15 minutes of questions and answers with the judges.

Medina Mercantile was the top place winner, earning $5,000 to use toward expanding the business beyond imported hand-made baskets sold wholesale to include select locally-made items sold retail, predominantly online. Owner Cassie Wilson, who is also a designer, will use part of the money to work with local artisans on special pieces and the rest to do some much-needed work on the building, located on 8909 Deer Run Dr in Copper Hill.

Windy Creek Farm took 2nd place and a $3,000 prize. Owner Jake Bruton, a large animal veterinarian by training, emphasized the opportunity available to his farm business selling USDA beef, pork and lamb. He is also working with other local farms to meet demand. Windy Creek Farm is on Franklin Pike in Floyd.

ColdSpring Nurse Mares, LLC won third place and a $1,000 prize. Owner Bronwyn Watts explained that the new company “provides an innovative and vital service to the equine community” by providing nurse mares to foals who have lost their biological mothers. The farm, located on Kristi Lane in Floyd, serves the East Coast and Mid-Atlantic region, which includes many acclaimed horse farms.

“The quality of this year’s plans and pitches were excellent, “ according to Jon Beegle, the Chairman of the Floyd County Economic Development Authority and a stand-in for a judge who wasn’t able to make it. “Out of a possible 300 points, less than 15 points separated 5 contestants. They really showcased the innovation and entrepreneurship in Floyd County and showed promise in both start up and expansion opportunities.”

This year a “Best Pitch” award and $400 prize was given to Buffalo Mountain Adventures for their pitch which included a costumed skit and mini-rap about the business. Brittany Bonner explained that the company is already offering a shuttle service for groups in or visiting Floyd, and they are adding guided outdoors adventure services in the Spring to include hikes, river and caving trips and mountain biking.

The Floyd C4 Business Development Series, funded by the Floyd County Board of Supervisors, provides 6 weekly sessions on business start-up, marketing, finance, operating a business and how-to-pitch. C4 stands for Curriculum, Creators, Coaches and Challenge.

“The Small Business Development Center is an integral partner with us in putting this on as their staff members Tom Tanner and Amanda Forrester do some of the presentations as well as provide business counseling services to participants. The Floyd County EDA is fortunate to have great partners that make this possible—including the County, the Town, Virginia Community Capital, and the New River Valley Regional Commission,” Beegle added. “We look forward to continuing to work with all of the businesses who did the Floyd C4 and seeing them grow and succeed in Floyd.”

This was the 4th annual Floyd C4 series.

One-year follow up on the first two Floyd C4s showed that 22.5 full-time equivalent jobs were created by the new or growing businesses and more than $650,000 in private investment was generated.

Follow up with the cohort from the third year is currently underway.

For more information, contact Lydeana Martin at lmartin@floydcova.org or 540 745-9300 or by cell at 540 267-4083.

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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.

Energy Star Rankings

The NRV Ranked No. 8 Energy Star Small City

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (commonly known as Virginia’s New River Valley) was ranked the number 8 Energy Star small city of 2018.

The NRV has a long history of being a good steward with natural resources and protecting the environment. The people of the NRV have a deep connection with nature and are committed to preserving the region, especially because the resources (like the New River) are so fun to use.

Energy Star Rankings

Top 10 Energy Star Cities of 2018 (Small MSAs)

1. Midland, TX
2. Odessa, TX
3. Greenville, NC
4. Jackson, MI
5. San Angelo, TX
6. Sioux City, IA
7. Junction City, KS
8. New River Valley, VA
9. Santa Fe, NM
10. Martinsville, VA

The top cities were determined by looking at how many Energy Star certified buildings were in each MSA (metropolitan statistical area).

Energy Star certified buildings are more energy efficient than most of other similar buildings in the U.S. Energy Star buildings have saved more than $4.5 billion since 1999.

For more information about the rankings, visit Energy Star.

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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 Top Posts of 2018

NRV Ranked No. 6 Top Job Market of 2018

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (commonly known as Virginia’s New River Valley) keeps topping charts. The NRV was ranked the number 6 top job market of 2018 by Zippia.

The rankings were determined by looking at unemployment rate, unemployment rate change, and wage change.

Top 10 Job Markets of 2018:

1. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA (Silicon Valley area)
2. San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA
3. Odessa, TX
4. Midland, TX
5. Charleston-North Charleston, SC
6. New River Valley, VA
7. Florence, SC
8. Ann Arbor, MI
9. Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA
10. Roanoke, VA

The rankings considered 386 metro areas of varying sizes. For more information on the rankings, visit Zippia, “The Career Expert.”

This ranking was also used by USA Today.

Looking for work in the NRV? Start with the Job Opportunities tab under Live Here.

Header photo: Excella, agile tech firm, Blacksburg

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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 video

Virginia’s New River Valley Video Receives Incredible Organic Response

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Onward New River Valley released a video to aid in the cultivation of the regional brand at the organization’s annual dinner Thursday, Sept. 20. The video organically hit 1,000 shares and over 56,000 views in about one week on Facebook alone. It also reached over 128,000 people.

The social response to the video is overwhelmingly positive. Some of the comments on the Virginia’s New River Valley Facebook post include:

  • “Don’t come here to change this place… come here to let this place change you!!”
  • “Best place I ever lived! I miss it every day!!”
  • “Ok so looks like I’m moving there”
  • “Makes me feel homesick. Excellent representation in the video. Job well done”
  • The video, which was made with Nightfire Productions, is resonating with people who love the New River Valley and reaching those who may be hearing about it for the first time.

    “It’s important to note that this initial response was garnered completely organically,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “This means we didn’t pay for any sort of advertising. People are going out of their way to share it, which means they like it. It means we were able to capture the culture of Virginia’s New River Valley through the video. Now it’s easier not just for us, but also for people, businesses, and organizations to share this great place with the world.”

    The overwhelming response is proof that place attachment is an important concept in economic development. Place attachment is an emotional connection a person has to a certain place. The goal of the video is to foster a sense of place attachment for Virginia’s New River Valley and the response is proof that it’s working.

    “A primary goal of economic development is to influence people to choose one community over another. Whether it’s a company looking to relocate or an individual considering a move, an emotional connection to a place can positively affect that decision. This video helps capture the feeling of why so many people have chosen to live, work, and do business in Virginia’s New River Valley. We hope people throughout the NRV will continue to help share the video and use it to showcase what is so special about our region.”

    Footage in the video includes businesses, towns, scenic hot spots, and local favorites around the region. The full list of locations is posted on the video webpage.

    For more information about the video or Onward NRV, please contact Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org.

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

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

    Blue Ridge Parkway Mabry Mill

    Prime Time on the Blue Ridge – Southern Living

    If you haven’t taken a little road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway, now is certainly the time. As the leaves start to change and the air turns crisp, the beautiful, winding drive is sure to please. It truly is “Prime Time on the Blue Ridge.”

    Be sure to stop by the Floyd Country Store or Mabry Mill along the way.

    Blue Ridge Parkway Floyd Country Store

    Cheryl Zibisky

    Jason Frye from Southern Living recounts experience at Mabry Mill during his journey along the famous BRP:

    “To call this place picturesque is an understatement; Mabry Mill is a poem. The millhouse, built by Ed Mabry in 1905, sits on the edge of a small pond and is one of the most photographed stops along the Parkway. Today, with the play of color on the trees above and their reflections in the millpond below, it’s a real showstopper.”

    Read more at Southern Living.

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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 Valley Video

    Onward NRV Releases New Regional Video

    NEW RIVER VALLEY, VAOnward New River Valley is proud to release a brand new video showcasing the unique culture and assets of Virginia’s New River Valley.

    The New River Valley video, which was created with Nightfire Productions, is a culmination of input from people and companies all over the NRV. It encompasses the culture of our area, while showcasing some of the unique assets in the region.

    The video features the Virginia’s New River Valley branding created with Eddy Alexander, which Onward NRV has been working to rollout over the past year. The video is the latest effort to cultivate and nurture the brand.

    “We’re incredibly proud to release the New River Valley video,” said Onward NRV Executive Director Charlie Jewell. “This video expresses and adds to the emotional attachment that people have to the NRV. It was created as a concerted effort to effectively brand Virginia’s New River Valley. We hope you enjoy what we believe is an excellent representation of the NRV and that you share it with everyone you know.”

    Like the video? Make sure everyone sees it by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!

    For a complete list of locations in the video, or to embed it on your site, visit the video web page.

    For more information, contact Onward NRV Marketing Manager, Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org.

    Nanosonic, NRV job market, NRV top job market in US

    The NRV Named a Top 10 Job Market by USA Today

    VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (also know as Virginia’s New River Valley or the NRV) was named the #6 Top Job Market in the U.S. according to USA Today, yesterday.

    NRV Job Market a top job market in the US

    The ranking was created by Zippia, a job search site that used data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Zippia looked at wages, unemployment, and current jobless rates.

    “These metro areas are home to growing, well-paying jobs,” said Chris Kolmar, Zippia’s head of marketing. “These are the metros that have seen bigger decreases in unemployment and increases in wages than competing metros.”

    Virginia’s New River Valley is an excellent place to live and work and has been consistently recognized as such. Other recent acknowledgments include:

  • “Best of the Mountains” 16 Times
  • #11 Best Place to Work in Manufacturing
  • Top Affordable Metro Attracting YPs
  • #10 in High Tech Employment Concentration
  • The NRV has an excellent workforce that is fueled by great higher education institutions like Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College. Plus, the endless lifestyle amenities make it an excellent place to live.

    For more information, visit Virginia’s New River Valley.

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

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

    VA Best of Blue Ridge

    A Whopping 16 NRV Favorites Named “Best of the Mountains”

    Virginia’s New River Valley was not mentioned once or twice, but rather 16 times in Blue Ridge Country Magazine’s “Best of the Mountains.” From hiking trails to wineries, the NRV has some great places to visit… and readers agree. Check out how the NRV ranked:

    #1 Favorite Waterfall: The Cascades

    NRV Best of the Mountains, Favorite Waterfall, The Cascades

    This 70 ft. waterfall attracts almost 150,000 visitors each year. This easier hike has a beautiful payoff and visitors agree.

    #1 Best Hiking Trail (Non-AT): New River Trail

    #1 Best Biking Trail: New River Trail

    NRV Best of the Mountains, New River Trail Bridge

    This rail to trail system runs over 57 miles in Virginia’s New River Valley and is a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

    #1 Best Farm to Visit: Sinkland Farms

    #1 Best Place to Hear Mountain Music: FloydFest

    #1 Best Music Festival: FloydFest

    NRV Best of the Mountains, FloydFest

    For great music and free hugs, FloydFest is the place to be. It is consistently named a top music festival and won 3 “Best of the Mountains” awards.

    #1 Best Mountain Winery: Chateau Morrisette

    #2 Best Fishing Lake or River: New River

    #2 Best Rail to Trail System: New River Valley Trail

    #2 Best Country Store: Floyd Country Store

    #2 Best Quirky Festival: FloydFest

    #3 Town on My Bucket List: Floyd, VA

    #3 Best Fishing Lake or River: Claytor Lake

    #4 Favorite State Park: Claytor Lake State Park

    A Top Favorite Historic Theater: Lyric Theater

    NRV Best of the Mountains, The Lyric, Blacksburg

    The Lyric Theater is a restored hot spot for not only blockbuster and indie movies, but also live speakers and performers.

    Person Making a Difference in the Mountains: Woody Crenshaw

    NRV Best of the Mountains, Woody Crenshaw

    Crenshaw has done a lot for Floyd County including renovating the Floyd Country Store, and spearheading the Floyd Town Revitalization Project.

    Check out more of the rankings from Blue Ridge Country.

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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s 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.

    10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

    Note:
    July 8, 2021: This blog post, which was originally published in May 2018, was updated to reflect current information about the summer activities on this list.

    New River Valley, VA – Whether you’re a student, a long-term resident, or anything in between, Virginia’s New River Valley has no shortage of summer activities. Explore every part of the region and check out these 10 things to do in the NRV this summer.

    1. Adventure at Mountain Lake Lodge

    Mountain Lake Lodge  - Things to do in the NRV

    Check out the Adventure Center at Mountain Lake Lodge in Giles County for endless summer fun. Zip through the Appalachian mountains on a Treetop Adventure, test your survival skills with an Escape Room challenge, or play Archery Tag with your closest family and friends. (photo by Alissa Moody)

    2. Chateau Morrisette

    Chateau Morrisette - Things to do in the NRV

    Enjoy the grounds of this third-generation winery with friends, family, and even your pup (dogs are welcome!). Order a flight to explore new wines or sip a favorite blend while enjoying the outdoor seating and beautiful views of Floyd County.

    3. Claytor Lake

    Claytor Lake – Things to do in the NRV

    Swim, boat, or fish at Claytor Lake State Park in Pulaski County this summer. Enjoy the beach and seasonal snack bar, the full-service marina, picnic spots, hiking trails, and more.

    4. Float the New River from Bissett Park

    Bisset Park  - Things to do in the NRV

    You can float, boat, paddle, or fish the New River from many spots in the NRV, but Bisset Park in the City of Radford is a good place to start. Bring your own equipment or rent from a local outfitter when you arrive. Float awhile and they’ll pick you up to start again.

    5. Floyd Country Store Friday Night Jamboree

    Floyd Country Store  - Things to do in the NRV

    The Floyd Country Store is a nationally renowned country store and music venue in Floyd. It “has become a traditional gathering place for musicians, dancers, and visitors from all over the world.” The Jamboree happens every Friday night at 6:30 pm with different featured musicians.

    6. Hahn Horticulture Garden

    Hahn Horticulture Garden - Things to do in the NRV

    The Hahn Horticulture Garden is almost six acres of beautiful gardens on the Virginia Tech campus in Montgomery County. Experience tranquil water gardens, shade gardens, and plants galore! You can even check out special events and exhibits like Art in the Garden.

    7. Hike the Cascades

    The Cascades - Things to do in the NRV

    A classic hike in Virginia’s New River Valley, Cascade Falls is a moderate hike with amazing views. The 69-foot falls are flanked by even taller cliff walls. This Giles County treasure was recently listed among the top five scenic family hikes in Virginia.

    8. Moss Arts Center

    Moss Arts Center  - things to do in the NRV

    The Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech welcomes performances that range from classical music to dance to stand-up comedy. The art galleries are open Wednesday – Saturday and feature various art exhibitions to explore. Click here to see the calendar of upcoming events.

    9. Pulaski River Turtles Game at Calfee Park

    Pulaski Yankees - things to do in the NRV

    Head over to historic Calfee Park in Pulaski for a family-friendly River Turtles baseball game. Newly renamed in 2021, the River Turtles are part of the Appalachian League. This is an action-packed NRV experience you don’t want to miss.

    10. Radford University Planetarium

    RU Planetarium - Things to do in the NRV

    Beat the heat and still experience nature! School is out, but the Radford University Planetarium is still up and running. Please note that as of Summer 2021, the Planetarium is in a “wait-and-see mode” due to COVID-19 case numbers and vaccination rates. Refer to the upcoming show times list here to see when the planetarium will be open.

    Find more things to do each day on our Community Calendar powered by Next3Days.

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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 NRV Community Pages Now Live

    NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – Onward NRV has officially published new NRV community pages that showcase each county and city in the region. Each page can be accessed by hovering over the “Our Region” tab or visiting the “Our Region” page.

    “The new and improved community pages on our regional website do a great job communicating the uniqueness of each community in our region,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “We’re excited to release another resource full of information about what makes Virginia’s New River Valley an inspiring place to live, work, and do business.”

    Onward NRV staff worked closely with local government, chamber, and tourism staff to ensure that each community was accurately represented.

    The five pages are linked below:

  • Floyd County
  • Giles County
  • Montgomery County
  • Pulaski County
  • City of Radford
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    Virginia’s New River Valley: For those searching for an inspiring place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both an eclectic small town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative business community with a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. Offering the best of all worlds – magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, arts, entertainment, and education – it’s 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.