NRV number 17 best college town

NRV Named #17 Best College Town by AIER

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (known as the New River Valley) was ranked the number 17 best college town in America (2017) by the American Institute for Economic Research. The NRV is home to over 40,000 students thanks to Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College.

NRV best college town
“It should come as no surprise that Virginia Tech supplies Blacksburg with high levels of innovation. In terms of bars and restaurants, ask any Tech student and they’ll tell you to head downtown to T.O.T.S., Gillie’s, or Sharkey’s for some amazing brews and grub. The MSA of Blacksburg also includes Radford University, a key player in the regional economy.”

AIER compiled the Best College Town results based on economic, demographic, and quality of life data points. Each “college town” has a population of less than 250,000.

AIER also gave the NRV the number 3 ranking for bars and restaurants.

Virginia Tech and Radford University often receive accolades and top rankings for their academic programs and fun atmospheres. Most recently, Virginia was ranked as the #15 Best College Tailgate in the U.S.

For more info about the other college rankings, visit AIER.

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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.

roam nrv bike share launches

NRV Bike Share Launches in Blacksburg and Christiansburg

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VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The NRV’s new bike share program, Roam NRV, has officially launched. Powered by Gotcha, the bikes are located in Blacksburg and Christiansburg and on the Virginia Tech Campus. Bikes can be found at “hubs,” which are detailed on the Roam NRV website.

According to the Roanoke Times, there is consideration to expand the program in the future. Some of the hubs may also change location depending on use or the potential for businesses to sponsor them.

Riders can reserve bikes through the Social Bicycles (SoBi) mobile app for Apple and Android.

For more information visit the Roam NRV website and start roaming the NRV today!

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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.

Virginia Tech Ranked the #15 Best College Tailgate

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BLACKSBURG, VA – Virginia Tech was named the #15 Best College Tailgate in the U.S. by INSIDER with the help of Scott Backstrom, founder of Tailgate Master.

“The Hokies know how to give a Virginia Tech game day experience. Arrive early and check out the Hokie Walk and the Hokie Village for music and more!”

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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.

Blacksburg Farmers Market Ranked #9 in Virginia

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BLACKSBURG, VA – The Blacksburg Farmers Market was ranked number 9 in Virginia by HomeSnacks.net. The ranking was created by looking at data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Criteria included number of amenities, technology improvements, variety of items, population, and organic vendors.

Top Farmers Markets in Virginia (HomeSnacks):


1. The Virginia Beach Farmers Market, Virginia Beach, VA
2. Lynchburg Community Market, Lynchburg, VA
3. The South Of The James Farmers Market, Richmond, VA
4. Harrisonburg Farmers Market, Harrisonburg, VA
5. Sunday Brunch Market, Glen Allen, VA
6. Charlottesville City Market, Charlottesville, VA
7. Danville Farmers’ Market, Danville, VA
8. Grandin Village Farmers Market, Roanoke, VA
9. Blacksburg Farmers Market, Blacksburg, VA
10. Williamsburg Farmers Market, Williamsburg, VA

There are many active farmers markets in the New River Valley, serving each unique community in the region.

The Blacksburg Farmers Market takes place all year long in the middle of Downtown Blacksburg. For more info visit www.blacksburgfarmersmarket.com.

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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.

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

The NRV Named a Top 10 Job Market by USA Today

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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.

    GO Virginia Region 2

    Blacksburg the #4 Best Affordable College Town for Recent Grads – And Everyone Else

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    BLACKSBURG, VA – The Town of Blacksburg was ranked the #4 Best Affordable College Town for Recent Grads (And Everyone Else) by Realtor.com. Their data team looked at 700 markets with at least 1 four-year university and 10,000 undergraduates in the area. The rankings were done considering percentage of students, unemployment rates, home appreciation, and median income.

    Looking down main street in downtown Blacksburg in Montgomery County, VA

    “After receiving their diplomas, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) graduates often head to cities such as Washington, DC, or Charlotte, NC.”

    But those who prefer the great outdoors over big-city life are choosing to stick around. For starters, the Appalachian Trail is just a short drive out of town.

    “Claytor Lake State Park is the go-to for fishing and boating, and New River Trail State Park is a fantastic place for horseback riding.”

    Read more from Realtor.com.

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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.

    VA Best of Blue Ridge

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

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    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

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    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.

    Mahindra Group Expands to the NRV in the VT Corporate Research Center

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    BLACKSBURG, VA – Mahindra Group, one of the world’s largest farm equipment production companies is expanding to Virginia’s New River Valley with an office at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center.

    Mahindra Group NRV: Mahindra group expands to Virginia's New River Valley in the VTCRC

    The expansion was announced yesterday on-site at the VTCRC. It is now the largest internationally headquartered tenant in the park.

    “Mahindra Group strives to be at the forefront of technology and innovation with a view to improve lives of our customers,” said Rajesh Jejurikar, President of Mahindra & Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector. “We believe that leveraging the ecosystem of a leading academic institution such as Virginia Tech will foster innovation and enable us to stay ahead globally.”

    “The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center offers the perfect setting for both research and testing,” said Aravind S. Bharadwaj, CTO for Mahindra’s Farm Equipment Sector in Chennai, India. “The commonwealth’s rural communities married with Virginia Tech’s research expertise were the winning factors in narrowing down to Virginia Tech.”

    Read more from Virginia Tech.

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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.

    MELD Manufacturing Corporation Awarded RAPID + TCT Innovation Award for Patented MELD Technology

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    The accolade recognizes technological advancement in the 3D printing and additive manufacturing industries

    FROM MELD, MONTGOMERY COUNTY, VA – On Thursday, April 26, 2018, MELD Manufacturing Corporation was selected from the more than 300 exhibitors at RAPID + TCT 2018 as the recipient of the Innovation Award. RAPID + TCT, a 3D printing and additive manufacturing event that draws industry leaders from around the globe, is North America’s preeminent event for 3D manufacturing. This year’s show, hosted in Fort Worth, Texas, saw live demonstrations and speakers representing a variety of recognizable institutions, from FIAT/Chrysler and Caterpillar to Lockheed Martin and the United States Army Research Laboratory. The Innovation Award recognizes the most groundbreaking new product or service with industry-changing potential.

    MELD Manufacturing Corporation, which was launched earlier this month as a subsidiary of Aeroprobe Corporation, was selected for the award for their patented MELD technology. MELD is a unique process for additive manufacturing that avoids melting the metal, thereby eliminating the weaknesses and other issues associated with melt-based processes. MELD’s open-atmosphere operation and scalable equipment also make it more efficient and capable of making larger parts than similar processes. In addition to additive manufacturing, MELD can be used to repair, coat, and join a wide range of materials, including some metals that cannot be welded with traditional processes.

    “The MELD technology is a revolution,” noted MELD Manufacturing Corporation CEO Nanci Hardwick. “To be recognized at RAPID by these industry leaders demonstrates just how much potential MELD has to change the way we think about manufacturing. We want to see MELD adopted across industries, so it’s exciting to see genuine interest from such a diverse crowd.”

    The winner of the Innovation Award is selected by a panel of industry experts. This year’s group included judges from industry, government, and academia.

    “To earn this award our first year at RAPID is an honor,” said MELD Additive Manufacturing Manager Chase Cox. “MELD is on its way to innovating a number of industries and this award is a great milestone.“

    After finishing up at RAPID + TCT, MELD will launch into a busy conference season, including participation in AeroMat in Florida and MegaRust in California in May alone. For customers anxious to learn more about the MELD technology, the company is currently offering machines sales, contract manufacturing, and a variety of other services.

    Visit www.meldmanufacturing.com for more information.

    CONTACT:
    Ryan Davis
    ryan.davis@meldmanufacturing.com
    200 Technology Drive
    Christiansburg, VA 24073
    Ph: +1-540-950-3980 x 4226

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    MELD Manufacturing Corporation holds more than a dozen patents for MELD technology, an innovative process for additive manufacturing, coating, joining, and repairing metals and metal matrix composites. MELD offers the power to build parts in solid state, thereby avoiding the issues associated with melting. The technology is also open-atmosphere, meaning no special vacuums or chambers are needed for operation. The MELD equipment is scalable and can produce parts much larger than similar processes. MELD Manufacturing Corporation offers MELD machines sales, contract manufacturing, and consulting services. Learn more at www.meldmanufacturing.com.

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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.