1901 Group Expansion

1901 Group Adds 580 Jobs in Blacksburg

RICHMOND — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that 1901 Group, a trusted provider of IT services for the public and private sectors, will invest $4 million to expand its Enterprise IT Operations Center headquartered in Montgomery County (Blacksburg, VA) and its corporate offices in Fairfax County. The company will receive funding for the project from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP), which will support the addition of 580 new jobs in Montgomery County and 225 new jobs in Fairfax County by 2021.

“The decision by 1901 Group to expand its operations in Montgomery and Fairfax Counties is a strong testament to Virginia’s ability to compete for major projects that will result in tremendous opportunity for citizens across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Ralph Northam. “With one of the largest technology talent pools in the nation, Virginia’s thriving IT industry promises high anticipated growth and upward mobility for employees. We thank 1901 Group for creating more than 800 new 21st-century jobs and for contributing to our efforts to ensure that all Virginians, no matter who they are or where they live, have access to a promising future.”

1901 Group is a market leader in innovative public sector IT services. The company delivers cloud, cyber security, and enterprise scale-managed services to transition customers from traditional on-premise IT infrastructure and support models to hybrid cloud solutions that improve performance and reduce costs. Named one of “Virginia’s Fantastic 50” by the Virginia Chamber of Commerce, 1901 Group has experienced a substantial increase in the use of its services by the federal government, with anticipated high growth in the future. The company will expand its Enterprise IT Operations Center in Montgomery County to 40,000 square feet, augmenting its ability to hire, train, educate, and retain a cloud-centric engineering workforce to provide 24-7 support of end users, complex IT infrastructure environments, and mission critical systems.

“Both the New River Valley and Northern Virginia represent the very best of what Virginia has to offer, and we are proud that 1901 Group has experienced such extraordinary growth at its locations in Montgomery and Fairfax Counties,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “The company will continue to benefit from an acclaimed business environment and premier higher education institutions training the next generation of IT professionals. 1901 Group is the ideal candidate for support from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program, which has provided a skilled talent pipeline to growing corporate partners for more than half a century.”

“1901 Group’s revenue in the federal market has increased by 30x in the last six years,” noted CEO of 1901 Group Sonu Singh. “Much of this growth can be attributed to operating in the Fairfax region, which has a strong technology focus and great access to talent. Our business model also leverages the talent, the quality of life, and the advantageous cost of living in Montgomery County. Our goal of creating high-quality IT jobs clustered in rural areas is the best way to improve quality and performance for the federal government especially as the pace of cloud adoption increases. Our revenue and headcount growth are proof that this is the next big trend in rural IT jobs.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) assisted Montgomery County and the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority with their efforts to secure the project for Virginia. VEDP will support 1901 Group’s recruitment activities through VJIP, a program that provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs or experiencing technological change to support employee training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for its citizens.

“This is yet another example of how Montgomery County is not only a great place to live, but also a great place for desirable and expanding job opportunities in our software development cluster,” said Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors Chris Tuck. “1901 Group joins a series of companies in our area that are growing, and we are glad they have chosen to expand their operations in Montgomery County.”

“1901 Group is a great example of a company leveraging new technologies in innovative ways, and I am delighted that the firm is taking advantage of our technology-focused workforce to expand its corporate operations here,” said Gerald L. Gordon, Ph.D., president and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority.

“The New River Valley has attracted many IT companies, and the announcement today of 1901 Group’s ongoing development in this region is one more testament to increased demand for IT services and cybersecurity management,” said Senator John Edwards. “As more industries migrate data to cloud-based platforms, Virginia must continue preparing a workforce to build and maintain the IT infrastructure of tomorrow.”

“1901 Group’s expansion in Fairfax County is an exciting growth move for them and a real benefit for our area,” stated Senator Janet Howell. “I commend the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority’s efforts to secure this expansion for Northern Virginia. Funding from the Virginia Jobs Investment Program will benefit both 1901 Group and the new employees who are hired for the data center expansion.”

“Having economic development partnerships with businesses such as 1901 Group remains a top priority for the Commonwealth,” said Delegate L. Nick Rush. “With funding from VJIP, the expansion of 1901 Group in Montgomery County will continue to help establish Virginia as a global IT leader while providing cost-effective services that are researched, developed, and maintained right here, in our local community. Future job opportunities that this expansion will provide are both welcome and encouraging for our region’s fast-paced and ever-growing technology sector.”

“I am pleased that this economic development partnership will benefit my region of the Commonwealth as well as another,” said Delegate Kenneth Plum. “It will provide job opportunities for Fairfax and Montgomery Counties. 1901 Group’s significant investment and job creation is truly a win for everyone.”

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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 EDA Supports Local Business Thai This with $10,000 Grant

City of Radford Economic Development Authority presents Thai This Express with $10,000 Economic Incentive Grant

FROM RADFORD, VA – The City of Radford’s Economic Development Authority presented Thai This Express with a $10,000 Economic Incentive Grant on November 8. Thai This Express qualified for the incentive as they are located within the cities’ Enterprise Zone at 1401 Tyler Avenue.

The Economic Incentive Grant is available to new businesses and is a financial incentive specifically designed for small businesses or entrepreneurs opening a new business within the zone. Upon the first anniversary of the date of the business license, the business may be eligible for reimbursement of applicable taxes remitted by the business in an amount up to $10,000. Thai This Express received the maximum incentive grant following their one year anniversary in October.

Thai This Express ownership credits the community’s support for their continued success both with their food truck and permanent brick and mortar location in Radford. “We now know why Radford is called the “Heart of the New River Valley” – because of the love its citizens and the City’s business development community have shown our little business over this last year,” said owner Brian Lawson.

Thai This Express has been a vital business leader in supporting the Radford community. During the month of November they continue their support as Thai This Express teams up with Vittles for Vets to help support local veterans.

“On behalf of the Radford EDA board, we are very excited to present Thai This Express with the Economic Incentive Grant,” said Dr. Flo Graham, EDA Chair. “Brian, Jang, and their entire team are great representation of the Radford community and we are so happy to have them in our City.”

For more information on local and state incentives, please contact Blair Hoke, Economic Development Director at (540) 731-3603.

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

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

Energy Star Rankings

The NRV Ranked No. 8 Energy Star Small City

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

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

Energy Star Rankings

Top 10 Energy Star Cities of 2018 (Small MSAs)

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

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

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

For more information about the rankings, visit Energy Star.

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

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

NRV Top Posts of 2018

NRV Ranked No. 6 Top Job Market of 2018

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

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

Top 10 Job Markets of 2018:

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

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

This ranking was also used by USA Today.

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

Header photo: Excella, agile tech firm, Blacksburg

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

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

VTCRC VIP Media Day Brings Global Attention to the NRV

BLACKSBURG, VA – The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) hosted over 20 local, regional, and global media to the park for VIP Media Day last month. The exclusive event focused on recruitment opportunities for the VTCRC and highlighted the park and it’s current tenants in the media.

“VIP Media Day is the first time we have invited media to the research park,” said Joe Meredith, Ph.D., president and CEO of the VTCRC. “I am excited to showcase the tenant companies’ accomplishments and global impact.”

Michael Fleming, CEO of Torc Robotics and Del. Chris Hurst by Jon Fleming

Del. Chris Hurst, U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith, and Kelly Johnson, who is U.S. Sen. Mark Warner’s outreach representative, attended the event in recognition of the VTCRC’s success.

“The research park is proud of the 180+ companies whose research and developments make an impact around the world every day. VIP Media Day was our opportunity to showcase this,” said Dawn Myers, COO of the VTCRC.

Onward New River Valley participated in the media day to support the VTCRC and the local companies that are important assets in Virginia’s New River Valley. Executive Director Charlie Jewell participated in interviews with Site Selection Magazine and Pharm Exec Magazine. Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack served as an ambassador for elected officials and representatives.

The media day featured interview opportunities, industry tours, and a helicopter flyover of the VTCRC, Virginia Tech Campus, and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.

VTCRC Media Day Onward NRV

Virginia Tech Campus During Helicopter Flyover Tour by Abigail Hammack

Some of the coverage garnered from the event includes articles from R&D Magazine and Site Selection Magazine.

The participating companies and organizations included many within the NRV’s targeted industries: Food Processing & Agribusiness (Obis One, Pervida Beverage Company); Information Technology (Excella, 1901 Group, Click & Pledge); and Unmanned Systems (TORC, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, VPT).

Click the Industries tab for more information about industries in the NRV.

View additional photos of VIP Media Day here. For more information on VIP Media Day, visit www.vtcrc.com, email VTCRC’s business development and communication manager, Melissa Vidmar, at melissa.vidmar@vtcrc.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.

volvo manufacturing day

WDBJ: Volvo Invites Pulaski County Students to Experience the Future of Manufacturing

FROM WDBJ – Middle school students from Pulaski County got a closer look at the manufacturing industry.

Volvo opened its doors to them for National Manufacturing Day. Students got to see firsthand what careers in the industry look like. They also had some fun building mini Volvo trucks.

The company says they want to show students that they can be successful right in their hometown.

“We manufacturers spend a lot of time trying to convince suppliers, employees from around the world to come here to the New River Valley because its super cool, but we don’t tell our own kids. So I think this is a good time to do so,” plant manager, Franky Marchand, said.

Watch video coverage from WDBJ.

Onward NRV IEDC Award

Onward NRV Receives Excellence in Economic Development Award from the International Economic Development Council

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Onward New River Valley received a Bronze Excellence in Economic Development Award for the Targeted Industry Brochures, in the category of Special Purpose Print Brochure from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

The honor was presented at an awards ceremony on Tuesday, October 2, during the IEDC Annual Conference, which was held September 29 – October 3, in Atlanta, Georgia.

“We are honored to receive an IEDC Excellence Award for the Targeted Industry Brochures we created this year,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “It is incredibly exciting to be recognized by our peers for creating a viable asset to promote Virginia’s New River Valley. These brochures allow us to refine and easily execute our pitch for why the NRV is a hub for each of these industries.”

Onward NRV developed a series of four brochures that highlight the region’s experience, assets, and offerings relative to each target industry. Each of these brochures called out the high-level business advantages of choosing the New River Valley. Each brochure also identified subsector industries, industry awards and accolades, and quotes and images from successful existing regional businesses in each category. The brochures are downloadable on the NRV website and are available in hard copy at the Onward NRV.

“This year our judges reviewed some extraordinary projects that advanced both communities and businesses,” said Craig Richard, CEcD, FM, President and CEO of the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation and 2018 IEDC Board Chair. “We congratulate all the award winners and thank everyone who nominated their projects for sharing their success with fellow IEDC members. What we learn from each other helps us to grow and advance as a profession. We look forward to even greater participation from economic developers across the globe in the 2019 awards program.”

For more information about Onward NRV, contact Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org or visit www.OnwardNRV.org.

About the International Economic Development Council: The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) is the world’s largest membership organization for economic development professionals. Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life in their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth and provide a stable tax base. From public to private, rural to urban, and local to international, our members represent the entire range of economic development. Learn more at iedconline.org.

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

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

Roanoke Times Onward NRV

Roanoke Times: Onward NRV Looks to Reinvent Itself As Economy Booms

FROM ROANOKE TIMES – Unemployment rates are the lowest they’ve been in years, facility occupancy rates are high and the New River Valley economy seems to be humming along.

But regional economic development group Onward NRV says that’s no time to sit back and coast.

Instead, the group is preparing to reinvent itself.

Onward Executive Director Charlie Jewell wants the organization look beyond attracting new employers to the region, like it has in the past. He wants the group to become a thought leader around the New River Valley, driving conversations on everything from talent attraction to promoting regional cooperation.

“We’ve come a long way from saying, ‘We have a piece of land,’” Onward board Chairman Ed Lawhorn said.

To kick things off, Onward publicly announced its first multi-year fundraising campaign this week. The group has so far raised $1.18 million toward a goal of $1.5 million, which would combine with money from local governments to fund the operation for the next five years.

Read more from Jacob Demmitt at the The Roanoke Times.

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

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

New River Valley Video

Onward NRV Releases New Regional Video

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Unmanned Systems Conference Blacksburg NRV VA

National Unmanned Systems Symposium to Take Place in NRV

BLACKSBURG, VA – The Ridge & Valley chapter of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) will host their second annual conference on October 9-10 in Blacksburg, VA to explore the state of unmanned systems technology, education, and research.

Peter Kunz, Ph.D., the Chief Technologist at Boeing HorizonX, will be the keynote speaker at the symposium.

The event will focus on the theme, “At the Intersection.” Main event programming will occur on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg at the Inn at Virginia Tech. Local tours and other activities will be off-campus in the Blacksburg area.

The theme represents the progress in unmanned systems technology and the challenges and opportunities increasingly appearing at the intersections of fundamental areas: human with machine; sensing with control; open architecture with secure software and communication; air with land and sea.

“I’m so excited for ‘At the Intersection,’” said Nanci Hardwick, CEO of Aeroprobe and President of AUVSI Ridge & Valley. “Our second annual event is coming after the extreme success of our first event, which brought attendees and speakers from all over the country and was regarded as a highly organized event that delivered a lot of value to participants. ‘At the Intersection’ is another great opportunity for unmanned systems professionals to learn more about the current state of the industry. Plus, it calls attention to all the fantastic companies and assets we have here in the New River Valley.”

The event will feature plenary speakers, interactive panels, and demonstrations by leaders from industry, government, and education. Activities will include networking, recruiting opportunities, and tours of area unmanned systems facilities.

Abstract submissions and registration for the event are still open.

Contact

For more information visit www.auvsiridgeandvalley.org/events or contact Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org. Follow AUVSI Ridge & Valley on Facebook and Twitter.

About AUVSI Ridge & Valley

The Ridge & Valley chapter of AUVSI seeks to advance unmanned systems at the regional level, and to help drive publicity and awareness for the region as a resource for technical expertise. Additionally, the chapter seeks to bring more unmanned systems companies and jobs to the area, while working with local colleges and universities to develop educational and workforce development needs.

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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.