Southern Living Names Floyd Country Store Top 20 Friendliest Places in the South

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Floyd County, VA – Southern Living magazine recently ranked The Floyd Country Store among their “20 Friendliest Places in the South”. The Floyd Country Store was selected as “Most Inviting Front Porch” due to the “centuries-old songs” that spill out from the store on a weekly basis. The Floyd Country Store is known for its Friday Night Jamboree and impromptu jam sessions. The Friday Night Jamboree is currently celebrating its 40th anniversay.

According to the article, Southern Living selections were based on “a list of reader-submitted nominations that numbered into the thousands and included all types of places from hotels to restaurants to shops to entire towns.”

Read the full list 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.

New River Community College Announces Economic Impact

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Pulaski County, VA – WSLS recently reported on New River Community College’s economic impact study for the Fiscal Year 2021-2022. The report shows that the community college is having a large influence in the region, contributing more than $121 million to the NRV’s economy in 2022.

According to the Economic Value of New River Community College Report, “for every dollar invested in the college, students gain $4.50 in higher future earnings and taxpayers see a net benefit of $2.20 in added tax revenue stemming from students’ higher lifetime earnings and increased output by businesses and public sector savings.”

The study also profiles the college’s operations spending impact, student spending impact, and the alumni impact in Virginia’s New River Valley for the 2021-2022 fiscal year.

Watch the WSLS Story here.

Read New River Community College’s full economic impact study here.

Virginia’s New River Valley offers exceptional educational opportunities, featuring several world-class universities and colleges within the region. Learn more about the educational landscape of 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.

Radford University Releases Economic Impact Study

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Radford, VA – Radford University recently published their 2022 Economic Impact Study, which outlines the university’s contributions to Virginia’s New River Valley and the Commonwealth of Virginia. The study reveals that Radford University generated a total economic impact of $421.7 million for the state of Virginia and $390 million for the NRV in the 2022 Fiscal Year. For every $1 Virginia invested in Radford University, the university returned $6.35 to the state’s economy.

The report also emphasizes the university’s impact on employment, student spending and volunteerism, visitor spending, alumni spending, and human capital improvements during the 2022 Fiscal Year.

Read Radford University’s full economic impact study here.

Virginia’s New River Valley boasts outstanding educational opportunities, with several world-class universities and colleges located in the region. Learn more about the educational landscape of 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.

Workforce Development Consortium Receives Grant

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Radford, VA – The New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Area Consortium recently received a $1.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor. This grant is part of a $98 million initiative to enhance training and employment services for young people and expand apprenticeships in high-demand careers.

The consortium is one of 72 organizations across 30 states awarded through the YouthBuild Program. According to the YouthBuild website, “YouthBuild is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational services for opportunity youth ages 16-24 who left school without a secondary diploma.”

Administered by the U.S Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration and supported by the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, YouthBuild grants help disadvantaged young people acquire occupational skills, employment services, and educational guidance. The program emphasizes green building techniques, including sustainable building materials, solar panel installation, and weatherization processes. Participants can also earn their high school diploma or equivalency degree while receiving workplace training.

Read the full press release and see a complete list of grant recipients from the U.S. Department of Labor 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 Destinations and Businesses Win Best of Virginia 2024 Awards

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New River Valley, VA – Virginia Living magazine recently recognized sixty-nine destinations and businesses in the New River Valley with Best of Virginia 2024 awards for Southwest Virginia. This annual contest invites the magazine’s readers to vote for the top destinations and businesses across the five regions of Virginia. The impressive number of winners from the New River Valley highlights how the NRV is a natural fit for anyone looking to live like a local.

The Best of Virginia 2024 award winners from Virginia’s New River Valley are listed below in their respective categories.

BEST FOOD & DRINK

  • Best Barbecue Restaurant – Bluegrass BBQ, Pembroke
  • Best Breakfast/Bruch Restaurant – Palisades, Eggleston
  • Best Burger Joint – Dude’s Drive In, Christiansburg
  • Best Coffee shop or Roaster – Sugar and Flour, Pearisburg
  • Best Fine Dining – The Palisades Restaurant, Eggleston
  • Best Food Truck – Cabo Fish Taco, multiple Locations
  • Best Ice Cream Shop – Scoops Arcade, Pembroke
  • Best Indian Restaurant – Indian Garden Restaurant, Blacksburg
  • Best Italian Restaurant – Sal’s Italian Restaurant, Radford
  • Best Mexican Restaurant – LaBarranca Mexican Grill, Pearisburg
  • Best Outdoor Dining – The Farmhouse, Christiansburg
  • Best Pizzeria – Sal’s Italian Restaurant, Radford
  • Best Sandwich Shop – Macado’s, multiple locations
  • Best Steakhouse – The Farmhouse, Christiansburg
  • Best Vegan, Vegetarian or Gluten Free – Gillies, Blacksburg
  • Best Chocolatier – Sugar Magnolia, Blacksburg
  • Best Community Supported Agriculture – Glade Road Growing, Blacksburg
  • Best Farmers Market – Blacksburg Farmers Market, Blacksburg
  • Best Specialty Gourmet Food Shop – The Bread Basket, Floyd
  • Best Wine Shop – Vintage Cellar, Blacksburg
  • Best Brewery – Eastern Divide Brewing Company, Blacksburg
  • Best Cocktails – Lush Lounge, Floyd
  • Best Distillery – Salty Stash Distillery, Dublin
  • Best Winery – Iron Heart Winery, Allisonia

BEST LIVING AND RECREATION

  • Best Annual Charity Event – Cancer, Kids, and Christmas, Narrows
  • Best Art Event – Steppin’ Out, Blacksburg
  • Best Art Gallery – Moss Arts Center, Blacksburg
  • Best Entertainment Center for Adults – McClain’s at First and Main, Blacksburg
  • Best Festival – Steppin’ Out, Blacksburg
  • Best Love Sign – LOVEwork in Pearisburg, Pearisburg
  • Best Movie Theater – The Lyric, Blacksburg
  • Best Music Venue – The Floyd Country Store, Floyd
  • Best Special Event Venue – Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
  • Best Dog Groomer – M & J Pet Grooming, Pearisburg
  • Best Veterinary Hospital – Town and Country Veterinary Clinic, Christiansburg
  • Best K-12 Independent School – Blacksburg New School, Blacksburg
  • Best Bed & Breakfast – Lily Valley Inn, Pearisburg
  • Best Historic Site – Mabry Mill, Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Best Resort – Mountain Lake Lodge, Pembroke
  • Best State Park – Claytor Lake State Park, Dublin
  • Best Tourist Attraction – Blue Ridge Parkway
  • Best Golf Course – Castle Rock Golf Course and Recreation, Pembroke

BEST SERVICES:

  • Best Counseling or Therapy Practice – New River Valley Community Services, multiple locations
  • Best Dental Practice – Radford Family Dental, Radford
  • Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Practice – NRV Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Blacksburg, and Radford
  • Best Pediatric Practice – New River Valley Pediatrics, multiple locations
  • Best Cosmetic Surgery Practice – New River Dermatology, Blacksburg
  • Best Dermatology Practice – New River Dermatology, multiple locations
  • Best Hair Salon – The Hair Loft, Radford
  • Best Spa – Allure Spa and Skin Health Boutique, Blacksburg
  • Best Greenhouse and Nursery – Crow’s Nest Greenhouses, Blacksburg
  • Best Kitchen and Bath Design Firm – Dublin Home Store, Dublin
  • Best Landscape Design – Back to Nature Landscaping & Construction, Blacksburg
  • Best Retirement Community – Warm Hearth Village, Blacksburg
  • Best Accounting Firm – Darryl Gillespie P.C, CPA Christiansburg
  • Best Auction Company – Linkous Auctioneers, Blacksburg
  • Best Bank – Truist, multiple locations
  • Best Car Dealer – Shelor Motor Mile, Christiansburg
  • Best Financial Planning Firm – Plott & French Financial Advisors, Radford
  • Best Funeral Home – Kendall Funeral Home, Pembroke
  • Best Law Firm – Patrick K. Moore, Blacksburg and Radford

BEST SHOPPING

  • Best Bookstore – Blacksburg Books, Blacksburg
  • Best Consignment Shop – Treasure Trove Thrift Store, Christiansburg
  • Best Fine Jewelry Store – P.R. Sturgill Fine Jewely, Radford
  • Best Florist Shop – Northside Flower Shop. Radford
  • Best Flower Farm – Stonecrop Farmers, Newport
  • Best Men’s Clothing – Tractor Supply, Pearisburg
  • Best Sporting Goods or Outdoor Outfitter – Tangent Outfitters, Pembroke
  • Best Women’s Clothing Store – Fringe Benefit, Blacksburg

In addition to these winners, eighty-three destinations and businesses from the NRV were recognized with second or third place awards. Read more about Virginia Living’s Best of Virginia 2024 awards here.Learn more about the lifestyle amenities available 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.

Trail Center Opens to Visitors in Giles County

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Giles County, VA – The ribbon cutting for the Giles County Trail Center at Mountain Lake Lodge was celebrated on May 10, 2024. According to a press release from Mountain Lake Lodge, the Trail Center has been created to help visitors discover the many attractions and trails of Giles County.

The 3,000 square foot center features public restrooms, parking, outdoor decks, interior gathering spaces, and changing rooms. The facility also provides maps, itineraries, and brochures that will help connect visitors to the natural beauty of the surrounding New River Valley.

Giles County Administrator Chris McKlarney said that “The Giles County Trail Center was designed to be a place where guests can be immersed in the outdoor adventure and amenities found throughout our region. Given the remote nature of this area and tremendous increase in number of day users over the past few years, creating adequate facilities to accommodate this growth was necessary.”

Read the full press release from Mountain Lake Lodge here.

Breathtaking views, mountain hikes, and water activities make the New River Valley a natural fit for outdoor recreation. Virginia’s New River Valley is a place where you can find your escape. Discover more about 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.

All Inclusive Playground Open in Christiansburg

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Montgomery County, VA – As things begin to warm up towards summer in the New River Valley, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the Town of Christiansburg’s newest park, Huckleberry Park. Recently WSLS reported that the 21-million-dollar Huckelberry Park was open for public use.

The land for this state-of-the-art park was purchased by the Town from the Truman Wilson Estate in 2013. The original “Conceptual Master Plan” was done by Foresight Design Services with Wood Partners, Inc. handling planning and landscape architecture while OWPR worked on the architecture. Faulconer Construction company made a comprehensive agreement for final design and construction, using Hurt & Proffitt and Hill Studio to complete the project in September 2023.

According to the Town of Christiansburg’s website “the approximately 50-acre park features all-inclusive playground amenities, pet-friendly play areas, special event locations, and multi-purpose playing fields. Christiansburg Huckleberry Park is committed to fostering a safe family-friendly atmosphere that supports youth and adult recreation. The Park will also welcome tournaments from across the region, including potential teams from North Carolina, Tennessee, Kentucky and West Virginia.” With the warmer weather approaching, things like the park’s splash pad are an added benefit to the surrounding communities.

Watch the full story from WSLS here.

Virginia’s New River Valley offers a variety of sports and recreational opportunities, including splash pads, playgrounds, parks, and recreation centers scattered throughout the region. The New River Valley has something for everyone. We are simply a natural fit. Learn more about recreational options 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.

Wing Partners with DoorDash in Christiansburg

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Montgomery County, VA – Wing recently stated that they are expanding their partnership with DoorDash in the United States. Following a trial in Australia, Wing, DoorDash, and Wendy’s are kicking off their United States collaboration in Christiansburg, Virginia.

According to the announcement by Wing, Christiansburg has been “an integral part of drone delivery’s progress” ever since their first US commercial operations began in the community in 2019. Wing’s drones are ideal for getting smaller items to their destinations quickly and efficiently. With speeds of 65 miles per hour, drones are the perfect option for delivering food and sweet treats.

Drones provide a more environmentally friendly option for single-item deliveries. Combined with their speed and small environmental footprint, they are an excellent choice for smaller DoorDash deliveries.

Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) continues to be a place where pioneering technology companies can thrive and become a part of the ever-changing landscape of tech culture. The NRV is simply a natural fit for innovative companies looking to change the future. Learn more about uncrewed systems in the NRV here.

Read Wing’s statement here.

Read DoorDash’s 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.

Floyd Growth Center Featured as EDA Success Story

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Floyd County, VA – The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) recently highlighted Floyd County’s Growth Center as a testament to the effectiveness of EDA funding in preserving jobs and enterprises in Virginia.

Positioned as vital infrastructure, this center caters to the needs of local entrepreneurs in Floyd, providing a resilient space capable of withstanding various natural disasters prevalent in the area. The construction of this 16,000 square foot facility was partially funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration through the Disaster Supplemental Funding program.

Currently housing Pragmatic Environmental Solutions, an oil recycling engineering firm, the center embodies Floyd’s commitment to green practices and sustainable solutions. Floyd County’s Community and Economic Development Director Lydeana Martin noted that “Floyd has a natural, green reputation. While ideologically conservative, our businesses support practical, forward-leaning technologies and the implementation of sustainable solutions.”

Opportunities in the Floyd Growth Center are still available. For a virtual tour of the center click here.

Read the full EDA article here.

Explore more sites and buildings 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.”

Remote Workers Love the NRV

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New River Valley, VA – Cardinal News recently highlighted a shift in the landscape of remote work in Virginia between 2019 and 2022 citing insights from the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey. According to the survey, remote work in Virginia’s New River Valley has surged by 101%, reflecting a growing trend of professionals opting for the region’s lifestyle. The allure of scenic vistas, affordable living, and a vibrant community makes the New River Valley an irresistible choice for remote work and living. With its beautiful landscapes and safe environments, it’s no surprise that more individuals are embracing the opportunity to work remotely from this picturesque corner of Virginia. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley feels like home for remote workers. It’s simply a natural fit. Calculate your cost of living in Virginia’s New River Valley here. Read the Cardinal News Article here. View the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey here.
Photo by Antoni Shkraba
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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.