NRV Counties Receive Outdoor Recreation Grants

New River Valley, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin recently announced that two counties in Virginia’s New River Valley will each receive up to $20,000 through the Virginia Tourism Corporation’s (VTC) DRIVE Outdoor grant program. The DRIVE Outdoor grant program targets “outdoor product development and entrepreneurial expansion throughout the Commonweath.”

Both Floyd County and Giles County were selected for the grant. The counties will use the funds to build upon the quality of life experienced by the residents of the NRV.

Governor Glen Youngkin said, “Outdoor recreation is an important part of Virginia’s economy and key to furthering the Commonwealth’s position as a top destination on the East Coast. The projects developed from the DRIVE Outdoor program will spur job creation, private investment, and endless opportunities for outdoor-focused partnerships.”

Read the full press release, including information on the other 8 communities selected for the grant, here.

The outdoors in the NRV provides a constant source of entertainment due to its natural resources, activities, and breathtaking views. Major outdoor attractions such as the New River, the Appalachian Trail, the Blue Ridge Parkway, Claytor Lake State Park, and Pandapas Pond are woven into the fabric of each community in the NRV. Explore the trails and waterways of Virginia’s New River Valley here.


Photo by Tony Greatorex


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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 Schools Receive Grants to Upgrade CTE Equipment

New River Valley, VA – Cardinal News recently reported that Giles County Public Schools and Montgomery County Public Schools were each awarded $37,000 of a $600,000 Career and Technical Education (CTE) Grant to purchase new equipment or make improvements to existing technical education facilities. Sixteen school divisions were selected by the Virginia Department of Education to receive equal amounts of the CTE Equipment Grant.

The CTE Equipment Grant program was established by the Virginia General Assembly in 2016 and has given over $4.2 million to help schools enhance learning experiences for students.

Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons said,

“These grants continue to allow our school divisions to develop robust and innovative CTE programs that are up to date technologically and help prepare students for the realities and expectations of today’s workforce.”

Giles County will be purchasing a “machining lathe and software for Giles County Technology Center’s precision machining technology program”.

Montgomery County will “purchase virtual reality and mixed reality hardware and software technology for the Governor’s STEM Academy’s program for designing and building using virtual reality”.

Read more of the Cardinal News article here.

View a full list of the CTE grant recipients here.

Virginia’s New River Valley offers outstanding educational opportunities ranging from public schools, private schools and several world-class higher education institutions. To learn more about education in the NRV, click here.


Photo by MChe Lee




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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

Giles County, VAPatrick 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.

3 NRV Locations Rank Among Places with Lowest Cost of Living in VA

New River Valley, VANiche.com recently listed three locations around the NRV among the top twenty places with the lowest cost of living in Virginia. Ranking of cost of living by city was based on the consumer price index and access to affordable housing using data from the U.S. Census and BLS. Check out the locations below: The affordability of Virginia’s New River Valley is one of the many reasons people choose to live, work, and do business in the region. Residents enjoy an excellent quality of life and below average cost of living, making the NRV a ‘Natural Fit.’ Browse the full rankings from Niche.com here. Thinking of relocating to the NRV? Explore our Cost-of-Living Calculator 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

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.

6 NRV Locations Win Best of Blue Ridge 2023 Awards

6 NRV Locations Win Best of Blue Ridge 2023 Awards

New River Valley, VA – Six well-known locations and events around the NRV recently won Best of the Blue Ridge 2023 Awards from Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine. Additionally, there were six businesses from around the region that were highlighted as runners up in different categories.

This is the 13th annual Best of the Blue Ridge Awards. In November 2022, readers of Blue Ridge Outdoors voted on their “favorite outdoor businesses, events, food/drinks, and destinations in the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic” to determine this year’s winners.

Browse the New River Valley’s Best of the Blue Ridge winners and runners up below:

Winners:

Runners Up:
  • Mountain Lake Lodge: Best Kid-Friendly Adventure Spot
  • Buffalo Mountain Ziplines: Best Zipline
  • 5 Mile Mountain Distillery: Best Distillery
  • Red Rooster Coffee: Best Coffee Shop
  • Runabout Sports: Best Running Shop
  • Mountainside Holistic Clinic: Best Wellness Center

  • See all the Best of the Blue Ridge 2023 award winners here.

    Explore more of the outdoors across 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.

Giles County Awarded Nearly $400,000 for Site Development

Giles County Awarded Nearly $400,000 for Site Development

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.

2022 NRV Awards and Accolades

Celebrate the NRV with 2022 Awards and Accolades

New River Valley, VA – The NRV is a great place to live, work, and do business, and because of that fact, the region was celebrated throughout 2022. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades and awards won this year by the NRV’s counties, city, towns, schools, businesses, and universities.

Regional Rankings

10 Most Popular NRV Blog Posts of 2022

10 Most Popular NRV Blog Posts of 2022

New River Valley, VA – 2022 was an exciting year in the New River Valley! Explore the ten most popular blog posts of the year from TheNRV.org. The following posts had the most pageviews online.

10. The Future of Trucking Arrives in Pulaski

This post highlighted a Cardinal News article about Trova CV, an NRV start-up company working to transform existing diesel trucks to electric trucks.

9. Financial Agreement Reached in NRV Passenger Rail Expansion

The Virginia Passenger Rail Authority and Norfolk Southern announced the financial closing of the agreement which will help bring passenger rail to the NRV within the next few years.

8. World’s Largest 3D Printing Project Finds a Home in Pulaski County

Alquist 3D announced a project to construct 200 3D-printed housing units in Pulaski. It was dubbed the “world’s largest 3D printing project”.

7. Great Ways to Turn Fall into Fun in the NRV

Explore ten things to do in the fall in New River Valley in this popular blog post!

6. Volvo Lands Largest VNR Truck Order to Date

It was announced in March that Performance Trucks, a California-based logistics company, ordered 110 of Volvo’s VNR electric trucks to be manufactured in the company’s NRV factory.

5. Amenities and Recreation Pave the Way for a Renaissance in Pulaski

This blog post featured a Cardinal News piece, titled “Pulaski Reinventing Itself”, which explored the work being done to improve and develop amenities throughout the Town of Pulaski.

4. Radford’s Highly Anticipated Highlander Hotel Set to Open Soon

This blog post highlighted a Virginia Business magazine article promoting the upcoming opening of Radford’s new Highlander Hotel. The hotel and conference center is scheduled to open in Spring 2023.

3. Three NRV Businesses Named Best Places to Work in VA

Modea, Aeroprobe, and Community Housing Partners were all named on the 12th annual list of best places to work in Virginia by Virginia Business magazine.

2. Industry and Jobs Flowing into the New River Valley

This blog post celebrated four 2021 business announcements throughout the New River Valley that were featured in a Virginia Business magazine article. In total, the four announcements brought 274 new jobs and over $29 million in capital investment to the region.

1. Passenger Rail Station Proposed for Former NRV Mall Site in Christiansburg

The most popular blog post of 2022 highlighted an article from The Roanoke Times detailing that the proposed NRV passenger rail station would be in one of two locations at Uptown Christiansburg development (formerly the NRV Mall).

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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.

Great Ways to Turn Fall into Fun in the NRV

New River Valley, VA – September is a beautiful month in the New River Valley. Daytime temperatures remain summer-like, while crisp evening air subtly transforms the rich green hillsides, mountainsides, and roadsides into vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red. Autumn is the perfect time of year to gather with friends and family and explore the region’s many wonders. So, join us as we explore Fall in the NRV! The list below has something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Sinkland Farm

Image courtesy of Sinkland Farm

Celebrating its 31st season, the fan favorite Sinkland Farms puts on a Pumpkin Festival that is unrivaled in the region. This year, the festival runs from September 23rd to October 30th and celebrates all things Fall. Featuring live music, local vendors, hayrides, and a dizzying corn maze, the Pumpkin Festival is an NRV staple that has something for everyone.

2. Doe Creek Farm

Apples have been grown on Doe Creek Farm for over 100 years. The pick-your-own apple orchard is perfect for kids and the “dwarf trees” allow even the smallest family member a piece of the action. Doe Creek is open every Saturday beginning 9/9 and ending when the fruit has been cleared from the trees. Check their website before you go to make sure you are up to date on hours and accepted forms of payment.

3. Virginia Tech Football

Image courtesy of Virginia Tech Athletics

It can’t just be a coincidence that football rhymes with Fall! Gameday in Blacksburg is one of the Towns great experiences. Even those not into the sport can enjoy the sights and sounds of 66,000 dedicated fans cheering on the Hokies. The fervor created during the team’s entrance song, Metallica’s famous Enter Sandman, has registered as a small earthquake on the Richter Scale.

4. Highlanders Festival

Image courtsey of Radford University

Celebrating its 25th year, the Highlanders Festival is a partnership between the City of Radford and Radford University. The festival began in the mid-1990s with a modest crowd of 3,000. It has since tripled in size, and now attracts an estimated crowd of 10,000. You don’t even have to be of Scots-Irish origin to attend (although if you plan to don a kilt, it helps). The Blue Ridge Mountains of Southwest Virginia provide a beautiful backdrop for the fall festival and the events are awe-inspiring! The festival is held on 10/8 and is open to the general public with free admission.

5. Mabry Mill

Image courtesy of Jeremy Riffe

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, the sights and sounds of rural Appalachia fill the air at Mabry Mill during the Fall. The old mill makes for a great “leg-stretching” spot for Parkway travelers and features cultural demonstrations, and a decades-long tradition of Sunday afternoon music.

6. Iron Heart Winery

Stock Image

Iron Heart Winery lives on a farm and was founded by a father-son team. Located in Pulaski County and built from the ground up, the farm’s history dates to America’s Industrial Revolution, circa 1882. The winery is a model of agro-tourism with a diverse array of activities and experiences that can be tailored to fit the needs of just about any guest. From cabin rentals to weddings, Iron Heart Winery is a must-see for a Fall trip in the NRV.

7. Pete Dye River Course

Fall is the perfect time of year to hit the links. The NRV is home to the stunning Pete Dye River Course. Located near the City of Radford, the 18-hole course is one of the best in the region. Sunshine, cool air, and fairways bordered by the beautiful New River make the River Course an easy pick for our Fall list!

8. New River Trail State Park

Image courtesy of Jeremy Riffe

New River Trail is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way. The park parallels the scenic and historic New River for 39 miles and passes through four counties and the Town of Pulaski. The trail’s gentle slope makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike, and ride horseback.

9. Floyd Music in the Mountains Concert Series

Image courtesy of the Town of Floyd

Music in the Mountains is a concert series that is sure to capture the ear of the music lover in your life. Fall in Floyd is perfect and the addition of local artists serenading as the sun sets is about as good as it gets. Put a priority on this series as the last date is at the end of September. Do not fret if you miss it this year however, the series wil be back in full swing beginning June 2023.

10. Hiking the Applachain Trail

Photo courtesy of Alyssa Moody

Giles County is an outdoor lovers mecca. The county boasts multiple access points to the Appalachian Trail and offers hikes for all skill and ability levels. For those who would like to notch off a piece of the AT without breaking a sweat, the Pearis Cemetery Trail is a fantastic option. Located just outside of the Town of Pearisburg, the trail is level and mostly gravel. There are even a couple of benches for sitting and soaking up the Fall colors. Budget about an hour (at a leisurely pace) for the out-and-back trail.

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

Click here to find out why the NRV is a great place to live, work, and do business.

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

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