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

New River Valley, VARadford 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.

Pearisburg Featured in Virginia Living Magazine

Giles County, VAVirginia Living recently featured an article on Pearisburg as a “hiker’s mecca”. The article highlights the fact that over 50 miles of the Appalachian Trail (AT) runs through Giles County, where Pearisburg is located. It’s a place where “thru-hikers” and “section hikers” can find some rest and restock before moving on.

The article features some great ideas for a weekend in Pearisburg that include places to eat, stay and hike.

Read the full article here.

Giles County is Virginia’s Mountain Playground®. The county is filled with well-known hiking trails that often lead to waterfalls as well as welcoming resorts. With outdoor outfitters, Giles has all you need to make your outdoor experience in the New River Vally one-of-a-kind. Discover all that Giles has to offer 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

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

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.

NRV Vineyards and Wineries Trail

New River Valley, VA – Virgnia has been growing wine since the colonial era and is listed in the Top 10 Wine Regions of the USA by USA Wine Ratings. Fall not only brings about a range of colors in Virginia’s New River Valley but is also a time for harvest as grapes become ready for wine glasses.

With harvest season upon the NRV vineyards, it’s the perfect time to celebrate and sample the flavorful wines made here in the New River Valley. Plan the perfect wine trail through the region by visiting the following vineyards:

The New River Valley continues to inspire all that live and work here. The beautiful mountains are majestic, and the New River flows steady. It’s a natural fit for wine growers and lovers! 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.

Camrett Logistics to Expand and Create 58 New Jobs In Pulaski County

Third-Party Logistics Services Provider to Expand in Virginia

Camrett Logistics to expand capacity in Pulaski County, creating 58 new jobs

RICHMOND, VA – Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced that Camrett Logistics, a full-service third-party logistics (3PL) company headquartered in Wytheville, will invest over $2 million to expand capacity in Pulaski County. The investment in Dublin will include new construction, renovating existing space, and the purchase of new forklifts and new 100% electric trucks. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia for the project, which will create 58 new jobs.

“Homegrown Virginia businesses like Camrett Logistics keep the Commonwealth’s economy on the move,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “With this expansion and modernization, Camrett will strengthen its operations and Virginia’s supply chain industry ecosystem, securing continued longevity for years to come.”

“Homegrown Virginia businesses like Camrett Logistics keep the Commonwealth’s economy on the move. “With this expansion and modernization, Camrett will strengthen its operations and Virginia’s supply chain industry ecosystem, securing continued longevity for years to come.” – Governor Glenn Youngkin

“Camrett Logistics has stimulated economic growth in Southwest Virginia for nearly three decades, and we are proud to support its continued success,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “Businesses rely on 3PL services like Camrett’s to not only expand their reach and customer base, and to keep products moving efficiently throughout the supply chain. We are thrilled that Camrett Logistics is doubling down on its long-term commitment to Virginia with this expansion.”

“Camrett Logistics is a leader in providing world-class supply chain services every day in Southwest Virginia, and our growth is because of our great employees/family members, customers, and partners,” said Cameron Peel, President. “This long overdue expansion will help revitalize an iconic World War II facility into a multi-use warehouse and usher the company into its new era as green supply chain experts. With four electric trucks, two electric spotters, a brand-new electric forklift fleet, and motion sensor-activated LED warehouse lights, we are focused on sustainability, and the future, for the generations to come.”

“Camrett Logistics is a leader in providing world-class supply chain services every day in Southwest Virginia, and our growth is because of our great employees/family members, customers, and partners. This long overdue expansion will help revitalize an iconic World War II facility into a multi-use warehouse and usher the company into its new era as green supply chain experts. With four electric trucks, two electric spotters, a brand-new electric forklift fleet, and motion sensor-activated LED warehouse lights, we are focused on sustainability, and the future, for the generations to come.” – Cameron Peel, Camrett Logistics President

“Camrett Logistics has been a strong corporate partner for more than 20 years, and their overall mission, along with this expansion project, is perfectly aligned with Pulaski County’s triple bottom line approach to governance and will further grow our climate-smart cluster of businesses,” stated Laura Walters, Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors. “Camrett has meant so much to the community as an employer, an investor, and as a leader, and we are confident this expansion and their strategic investments in climate-smart solutions will continue to enlarge and support Pulaski County’s green-tech hub and the region’s advanced manufacturing sector.”

“Camrett Logistics is a trusted and long-term partner in our Dublin Industrial Park. Our Park was established to provide these types of opportunities for our clients while supporting our citizens through future growth,” said Dublin Mayor Benny Skeens. “The partnership with Camrett, and their investments in our Park, has made our support and investment uncomplicated. This project has been part of an ongoing effort to partner with Pulaski County, VEDP, and Camrett to support area business and bring good jobs to Dublin. We are very grateful for the efforts of Governor Youngkin in bringing these jobs to the Town of Dublin, Pulaski County, and Virginia.”

“The expansion of Camrett Logistics in Pulaski County will contribute to economic growth in Virginia’s New River Valley,” said Katie Boswell, Executive Director of Onward New River Valley. “We congratulate Camrett Logistics on this exciting announcement and look forward to their continued success in our region.”

“Camrett Logistics’ decision to expand in Pulaski County showcases the enduring strength of Virginia’s workforce and business environment and underscores the potential of our region,” said Senator Travis Hackworth. “I’m proud to welcome them and continue finding more ways to work with Governor Youngkin to create more opportunities for life, recreation, and business in Southwest Virginia.”

Camrett Logistics has been providing warehouse and 3PL services in Southwest Virginia since its founding in 1995. Currently the company operates 11 facilities totaling 1.8 million square feet in West Virginia and Virginia, including locations along the I-81 corridor in Atkins, Rural Retreat, Wytheville, Dublin, and Radford, Virginia.

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County and the Town of Dublin to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Youngkin approved a $230,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Pulaski County with the project. Funding and services to support the company’s employee training activities will be provided through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program.

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

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Suzanne Clark
Email: sclark@vedp.org

Camrett Logistics
Contact: Cameron Peel
Email: cameron.peel@camrett.com

Read the Governor’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.

2 NRV Locations Featured in Southern Living for Best Fall Foliage in Virginia

New River Valley, VA –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 on the fall foliage list. The article said, “enjoy a day on the water at the 4,500-acre Virginia lake, and be sure to take in the scenic shoreline with its seasonal hues too.”

Mabry Mill on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Floyd County was #9. The article encourages people to “pull out your camera for snapshots of the original Mabry family mill, sawmill, and blacksmith shop in full fall color.”

The Appalachian Trail, which runs through Giles County, also received an honorable mention as “offering unparalleled access to the most dramatic fall sights”.

Read the full article here.

Fall is a beautiful time to be in Virginia’s New River Valley. The mountains and valleys offer a bountiful selection of opportunities for “leaf peeping.” Discover some of the NRV’s fall activities 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 LewisGale Montgomery ER Coming to Christiansburg

Montgomery County, VAWDBJ7 recently reported that 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.

HCA LewisGale Montgomery COO Devin Tobin said, “We have seen it really enhance the ER services in a community and bring that care closer to home. So, we when looking about where do we put the next one, how do we bring care to the community, Christiansburg was the perfect selection for that.”

WDBJ7 stated that “the ER will be an extension of LewisGale Montgomery and the two facilities will work together to provide patient care.”

Watch the full story here.

Photo by Pixabay

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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.

Fall Activities in the NRV

Note:
September 26, 2023: This blog post, which was originally published in September 2022, was updated to reflect current information about fall activities on this list.

New River Valley, VA – Fall is a beautiful time to be 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 a fall in the NRV! The list below has a little something for everyone, from exciting events to scenic adventures.

1. Sinkland Farms Pumpkin Festival

Image courtesy of Sinkland Farms

Celebrating its 32nd season, the fan favorite Sinkland Farms puts on a Pumpkin Festival that is unrivaled in the region. This year, the festival runs every weekend from the end of September  to October 29th 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 Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday in September and closes 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 town’s 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 26th year, the Highlanders Festival is a partnership between the City of Radford and Radford University. The festival began in the mid-1990s. It has since tripled in size since the original festival, and now attracts an estimated crowd of 10,000. NRV’s fall leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for the festival and the events are awe-inspiring! The 2023 festival is held on 10/14 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 Blue Ridge Parkway travelers and features cultural demonstrations, and a decades-long tradition of Sunday afternoon music.

6. Randolph Park Halloween Light Show

Image from Daklights

Randolph Park in Pulaski County hosts a spooky light show that is set up to Halloween themed music. The lights will turn on October 9th at 7pm and run every night through Halloween. Plan your visit at daklights.com.

7. St. Albans Sanatorium Haunted House

St. Albans Sanatorium was constructed in 1892 just across from the City of Radford overlooking the New River. It first functioned as an elite Lutheran boys school. In 1916 the property became a hospital with innovative treatments for psychiatric patients. The Sanatorium has received many paranormal investigators over the years, and they say that some of the patients have yet to leave the building. Every year the St. Albans Sanatorium opens for a haunted house experience. Tickets are available for every Friday and Saturday in October.

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 County Arts & Crafts Festival Series

Image courtesy of Augusta Poplar Art

This Arts & Craft Festival has been sponsored by the General Federation Woman’s Club since 1982. This year over 180 artisans and craftsmen will offer their handcrafted wares for sale including ceramics, quilts, afghans, hand-woven baskets, and many other uniquely crafted items. You don’t want to miss this single day event happening in Floyd County on Oct 7, 2023!

10. Pearisburg Annual Scarecrow Trail and Festival

Photo by Charles Parker on Pexel

The Scarecrow Festival kicks off with a scarecrow trail and will run from October 2nd through November 1st . The scarecrows are scattered around the Town of Pearisburg for all to enjoy. The Scarecrow Festival is on Saturday, October 7, 2023 from 10am until 3pm. With contests like best pet photo, the cutest baby, or the best Halloween costume contest; there is fun for all ages! Find out more here.

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.

CHP Announces First Home Sold in New River Home Trust

Montgomery County, VACommunity Housing Partners (CHP) recently reported on a remarkable moment in the New River Valley, the first home sold under the New River Home Trust.

The New River Home Trust was created in 2023 as a partnership between CHP, Montgomery County, and the Town of Blacksburg to increase access to affordable housing. The New River Home Trust offers a unique approach to homeownership by dividing the ownership into two distinct deeds. One deed is for the land and another for the home, making homeownership a reality by removing the cost of the land.

The land trust model is a forward-thinking movement that will help make home ownership in Montgomery County more accessible and affordable for families.

Read the press release here.

The New River Valley has a variety of housing options. Whether you’re based in one of the NRV’s walkable downtowns or along a country road, if you’re looking for a starter home or high-end golf course living, the NRV is the natural fit for your home. Learn more about housing 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.